The Meta Quest 3 hasn’t really had its moment in the sun this year, and even the latest updates to its hardware and apps might not change that trend. However, there’s a lot more happening in the world of Meta Quest that’s worth noticing. The team behind Quest’s software recently revealed to Gizmodo that their vision for VR isn’t just about headsets—it’s about creating an ecosystem that’s as open and diverse as Android.
During a brief chat with Sarah Malkin, Meta’s Director of Metaverse Entertainment Content, she emphasized that the main goal for Quest is all about expansion. More apps, more experiences, and, why not, more headsets that Meta doesn’t necessarily have to produce themselves. Back in April, Meta rolled out the Horizon OS as an independent VR ecosystem, and companies like Lenovo and Asus have embraced this new OS for their headsets.
Malkin mentioned that they’re pleased others, even Apple, have entered the VR space, but she’s confident that Quest remains the go-to platform for developers because of its reach and diversity.
And when asked by Gizmodo about the benefits of having different companies running the same OS, Malkin agreed wholeheartedly, noting it’s a strategy that has worked wonders with Android.
"We’re putting a lot of effort into expanding the variety and scope of experiences available," Malkin told me. "We believe we’re the top choice for people wanting to create since we’re connecting with the broadest audience."
Meta’s grand plans for the "metaverse" haven’t really taken off as hoped. Since its rebranding from Facebook, Meta’s idea of VR spaces felt more aspirational than practical. But with AI gaining momentum, Meta’s Quest headsets are becoming increasingly open. Users can easily access Game Pass and SteamVR directly through individual apps. The Quest library of games is expanding, and the basic interface is nearly perfected.
So where’s this "more" going to materialize from? The answer lies with third-party app developers. Compared to its competitors, especially when considering the hefty price of the Apple Vision Pro, Quest stands out for its affordability and the legacy of Oculus. To thrive, Quest needs fresh content, and fast.
Updates and Changes on Meta Quest 3
Recent updates to the Horizon environment haven’t been game-changers. Improvements like streaming Netflix directly in the browser, avoiding the old 480p cap, and the new travel mode are good additions. Travel mode makes connectivity on airplanes smoother by mitigating turbulence-induced jitters, tucked under "Experimental features" in quick settings.
In other updates, familiar apps get fresh features. Angry Birds VR adds a mixed reality twist with a new slingshot mode. Beat Saber introduces OST 7, plus new tracks, and the neon-lit "Collider" environment nods to Daft Punk. The fitness-focused Supernatural app now offers a mixed reality mode, letting virtual coaches appear right in your living room.
Meta gave me a chance to try these features out. The Meta Quest 3, which launched as a potent, untethered VR device with AR potential, has seen improvements over time. While it’s not a "brand-new realm," the support and polishing have streamlined the overall experience.
For active VR workouts, Supernatural surpasses a typical Beat Saber session. Its precise body and hand tracking push you to engage more fully than merely tapping your hands to a rhythm. A few light boxing exercises and you’re breaking a sweat—enough to mark a sweaty ring around the headset’s faceplate. Though compelling, the experience feels much the same for long-time users. True innovation from these updates might still be on the horizon.
Meanwhile, Meta’s rolling out the v66 update to resolve passthrough distortions and enhance Quest 3’s mixed reality hand tracking. This includes a new "wrist button" for easy access to menus within games and apps. During my time with Meta’s demo units, we didn’t use v66, and our in-house Quest 3s haven’t received it either. Although smooth in operation, one of the units had a glitch in the main menu. I’ve tried both the pricey Apple Vision Pro and the more budget-friendly Quest 3, and although Apple’s might offer a more polished look and slightly superior tracking, it’s not enough to justify the stark price difference.
Looking Forward: Quest’s Path to VR Dominance
It’s clear that VR workouts aren’t for everyone, and neither is watching Netflix in a VR headset. These updates serve as a nod to the evolving Quest 3 hardware and Meta’s continued commitment to VR.
Beyond this, Meta’s signaling a call for collaboration through Horizon OS. There’s buzz about a collaboration between Microsoft and Meta, evidenced by the Xbox-themed Quest 3, and we’ll likely hear more about this at the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase on June 9.
With a big visionOS update expected soon from Apple at WWDC 2024, the stakes are high. After the initial fanfare, Apple’s Vision Pro interest has flagged, as noted by analyst Ming Chi Quo. Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has made bold claims about Meta’s offerings being superior at a fraction of Apple’s cost, but Meta could actually benefit from Apple’s presence. Malkin shared that Meta aims for more portable headsets with extended battery life, a vision shared by Apple despite the Vision Pro being heavier than Quest 3.
For Meta to mirror Google’s early days and challenge Apple’s stronghold openly, similar to what Google once did, Apple’s presence is crucial. Apple’s loyal ecosystem might ensure its foothold remains firm, but they’ll need fresh hardware soon. Meta’s focus, meanwhile, should be on refining HorizonOS. Look at how PlayStation expanded into PC access for VR2 after Quest opened up to Game Pass and SteamVR. An open OS fostering consumer choice could be better in the long run. As Meta pours billions into its metaverse vision (reporting a $3.85 billion loss in the Reality Labs division last quarter), hopefully, this strategy won’t be overshadowed.
