Xbox is jumping into the VR fray. Here’s what we know about the upcoming Xbox VR headset.
The Apple Vision Pro has ushered in a new era of computing that is likely to integrate your phone, laptop, TV and gaming console into one device. However, the economics of such an advanced headset might restrict its access to the masses. This is why manufacturers and consumers are looking at the more cost-effective Meta Quest headsets.
For the uninitiated, Meta’s headsets are known for offering advanced augmented reality features at a palatable price and Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, is now planning to open-source its AR platform to other players, including Microsoft’s Xbox.
The owner of Facebook is now closely working with Lenovo, Asus and the Xbox team to develop specialised AR headsets tailored for specific use cases. However, the one that stood out the most (and more importantly, the one closest to release) is the Xbox version. Meta’s Xbox VR headset might just be what Microsoft needed to tackle the threat from Sony’s PSVR 2 headset available for the PlayStation ecosystem.
Although Zuckerberg didn’t reveal all the features and specifications in his announcement video on Instagram, he hinted at what Xbox players are likely to experience with the gadget out of the box. Since we are more than eager to explore the latest and upcoming developments in the gaming community, we couldn’t wait to deep dive into the details and figure out what the Meta Xbox VR headset could bring to the table.
So, Xbox gamers! It’s time to settle into your sofas and get ready for an exciting future involving augmented reality experiences. Speaking of which…
Xbox VR headset: What exactly is it?
Until Microsoft and Meta officially unveil it, we can only rely on what Zuckerberg has shared on his Instagram post.
At this point, Meta’s Xbox VR headset appears to be a modified variant of the Meta Quest 3.
Based on the teaser image shown in the video, it looks like Microsoft will come up with an AR headset that’s identical to the Meta Quest 3’s basic architecture. The headset might flaunt the Xbox’s signature green colour accents and iconic logo to make it more in sync with the Xbox ecosystem. Broader head straps could be introduced for enhanced comfort during longer gaming sessions. The headset will be running on Meta’s Horizon OS platform and is likely to offer Meta’s app store for downloading other Horizon OS apps and games.
However, the Xbox VR headset could be different from the devices wearing the Lenovo and Asus badges and here’s what we are speculating based on the available data.
1. Will likely retain Meta Quest’s gesture controls
As Zuckerberg said, the Xbox VR headset will come with the Xbox wireless controller out of the box, just like the Xbox Series X/S consoles do. However, we also expect Microsoft to retain the gesture controls from the Meta Quest for basic UI navigation.
2. Support for Xbox Game Pass
The Xbox Game Pass subscription is a crucial part of Microsoft’s gaming future and it’s being hinted that the Xbox VR headset will support it. For the uninitiated, the Xbox Game Pass gives players access to hundreds of video games from various eras of the Xbox consoles. To generate more interest, Microsoft could also offer specially curated Game Pass subscription plans for owners of the VR headset, prioritising titles designed for VR headsets over generic console titles.
3. An extension of the Xbox console experience
Horizon OS on the Meta Quest 3 already supports Xbox Cloud Gaming, letting players access their video game library from anywhere in the world. On the Xbox VR headset, Microsoft could fine-tune the hardware to automatically log in to the Xbox account and show a common dashboard listing all the games registered on your account. This could make it a more attractive proposition for gamers interested in getting the Xbox console experience on the move. As long as there’s a robust connection to the internet, the Xbox VR headset could be an extension of your Xbox console experience.
4. Special accessories might be on the way
Microsoft could also figure out special accessories for gamers tailored for the VR experience. These devices could offer haptic feedback for superior immersion during gameplay sessions.
Does the Xbox VR headset have a release date yet?
Sadly, Microsoft and Meta have not made any statements regarding the release date of the upcoming Xbox VR headset. Nevertheless, Microsoft is expected to release a midlife upgrade for the Xbox Series X console later in 2024 and we speculate a grand reveal of the Xbox VR headset alongside this upcoming console.
(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Meta)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– When will the Meta Xbox VR headset be released?
The Meta Xbox VR headset is expected to be released in late 2024 alongside the updated Series X console.
This story originally appeared in Augustman Singapore
Amritanshu lives and breathes tech, cars, Formula 1, space stuff and everything that delivers an adrenaline rush. Since 2016, he converted his favorite hobby of going all gaga over iPhones and Lamborghinis into his profession; hence, you aren’t likely to be surprised upon checking his browser history. In his spare time, he loves to drive and explore food joints, but will somehow end up with a plate of Chicken Biryani and a big smile. He has previously written for Hindustan Times, India Today, BGR.in, and Deccan Chronicle.
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