Meta's upcoming budget-friendly VR headset, the Quest 3S, may be more affordable than expected. A leaked Amazon advertisement suggests the device will be priced at just $299, matching the original launch price of the Quest 2.
The leak, which appeared on the streaming platform Peacock, indicates that the 128GB model of the Quest 3S will retail for $299. If accurate, this positions the new headset $200 below the standard Quest 3, potentially making high-end VR experiences more accessible to a wider audience.
Key details from the leak:
- Price: $299 for 128GB model
- Release date: October 16, 2024
- Chipset: Same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 as Quest 3
While offering the same powerful processor as its pricier sibling, the Quest 3S is expected to make some compromises to achieve its lower price point:
- Fresnel lenses instead of pancake lenses
- Potentially lower-quality displays
- Larger form factor compared to Quest 3 (but still smaller than Quest 2)
The Quest 3S is rumored to retain some premium features, including:
- Full-color passthrough cameras
- Controllers similar to Quest 3
Meta's strategy appears to mirror Microsoft's approach with the Xbox Series X and Series S, offering different price points within the same product generation. This could allow more users to access Quest 3-exclusive titles like the upcoming Batman: Arkham Shadow.
While exciting, it's important to note that this information comes from an unverified leak. The authenticity of the advertisement and the accuracy of the details cannot be confirmed at this time.
Meta is expected to officially unveil the Quest 3S at their Meta Connect event on September 25, 2024. This announcement should provide clarity on the headset's specifications, pricing, and availability.
If the leaked price proves accurate, it could represent a significant move by Meta to expand the VR market, especially in light of recent inflationary pressures on consumer electronics. The potential $299 price tag for a current-generation VR headset could make high-quality virtual reality experiences more attainable for many consumers.
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| A young individual explores a vibrant virtual landscape using a VR headset, illustrating the immersive experiences the Quest 3S is designed to provide at an affordable price |