Meta’s New VR Devices Could Help Push Platform Into The Mainstream

In Short:

1. Meta’s Strategic VR Developments: Meta is reportedly working on releasing two new VR devices—a more affordable option codenamed Ventura to attract a broader audience and a high-end device codenamed La Jolla to showcase the advanced capabilities of VR technology.
2. VR’s Impact on Online Industries: The online casino sector and social media are poised for significant transformations with the advent of VR, indicating a broader readiness across industries for VR’s integration into mainstream applications.
3. Broader Market Appeal: Meta aims to overcome the high-cost barrier of VR adoption with its dual approach, potentially making 2024 a pivotal year for VR by catering to both budget-conscious consumers and tech enthusiasts seeking premium experiences.

Meta is relying heavily on a virtual reality future, with the success of the metaverse riding on it. This is why it’s at the forefront of VR tech development, having released several iterations of its Quest device already.

Now, there are rumors that the company is working on a couple of new VR devices that could act as catalysts for the platform to become mainstream. These include a more affordable option and a high-end offering.

Key Online Industries Are Poised For VR Future

It feels like 2024 could be a massive year for VR, and plenty of online industries are already gearing up for its arrival in the mainstream. The online casino sector is one to watch out for, as it always leads the way when it comes to bringing in new tech advancements. This is highlighted by the incredible evolution of online slots, which are now more immersive than ever.

When people play online slots, they are faced with huge thumbnails with impressive artwork designed to reflect the virtual worlds of the games. Legion Gold Unleashed and Gritty Kitty of Metropolis, for example, take players into fantasy worlds, where the reels are set on top of an immersive and engaging backdrop. This is likely to be advanced upon further when VR comes to the fore, with giant slots likely to be found in digitalized realms with players able to face them in person.

Social media is another area in which VR is set to play a crucial role in the future, which is what Meta is banking on. Ever since the introduction of live streaming on Facebook, the platform has been trying to immerse users in the action more. VR is the next step in that journey, and users would most likely welcome this next level of engagement.

Meta Plans to Release More Affordable Headset

One of the biggest stumbling blocks to VR’s development up to now has been the cost of the devices. When new technology emerges, there’s usually caution from the public until it has had a chance to prove itself and advance. This was seen with smartphones, where uptake was slow in the first few years before there was a major boom.

Meta could be about to address this issue with a new headset, which is currently codenamed Ventura. The device aims to deliver a high-quality VR experience at a more attractive price point to the Quest 3, which has a starting price of $499. The latest Quest model was priced at $100 more than its predecessor, so bringing out a cheaper device makes a lot of sense and could help market these products to a broader audience.

To achieve the lower price, there are likely to be some sacrifices on the Ventura headset. The main reason why VR headsets are currently so expensive is because of their production costs. Therefore, a cheaper headset will most likely involve a cheaper display and a less powerful processor. There’s also a chance that the device will come without controllers in another cost-cutting scheme.

Company Also Developing a High-End Device

Along with the lower-end device, there are also rumors that Meta will bring out a much more expensive option that may be a successor to the Quest Pro. This is codenamed La Jolla and is likely to offer a more advanced VR experience than Meta has ever delivered before. This could be advantageous in winning more people over to VR, as it will highlight the capabilities of the platform and tempt people to try it.

The Apple Vision Pro has been having this effect since its release earlier this year, and the new mixed reality offering has already drawn a lot of attention. If Meta can achieve the same exposure with its high-end option, it could help to push VR further into the mainstream.

It appears that Meta is going for a double-pronged approach to draw more people into the VR industry. The cheap and expensive devices it plans to release alongside the Quest will allow it to attract a broader demographic. This strategy has the potential to propel VR into the mainstream in 2024.

Conclusion:

Meta is positioning itself at the forefront of VR technology, with plans to release new devices that could significantly impact the VR landscape. By introducing both an affordable VR headset and a high-end option, Meta aims to address the diverse needs and financial capabilities of a wide audience. This strategic move could accelerate VR’s entry into the mainstream, particularly as key online industries like online casinos and social media prepare for a VR-dominated future. Meta’s efforts to make VR more accessible and advanced may catalyze widespread adoption, potentially making 2024 a landmark year for VR technology.

FAQs

What is Meta’s strategy for VR?

Meta is releasing two new VR devices—a budget-friendly option codenamed Ventura and a high-end device codenamed La Jolla—to appeal to a broader audience and showcase VR’s advanced capabilities.

Why is the online casino industry significant for VR?

The online casino industry is known for adopting new technologies to enhance user experience, and its readiness to integrate VR indicates the potential for immersive, interactive gaming experiences.

How will social media change with VR?

VR is expected to introduce a new level of engagement on social media, offering immersive experiences that go beyond traditional live streaming and content consumption.

What might the Ventura headset sacrifice for affordability?

To lower costs, the Ventura headset may feature a less powerful processor and cheaper display, and possibly come without controllers.

What will the La Jolla device offer?

Codenamed La Jolla, this high-end VR device is expected to deliver an unparalleled VR experience, showcasing the full capabilities of the technology.

How does the cost of VR devices affect adoption?

High costs have historically been a barrier to technology adoption. By offering a more affordable VR headset, Meta aims to encourage wider acceptance and use of VR technology.

What impact could Meta’s new VR devices have on the VR industry?

By addressing both ends of the market spectrum with its upcoming VR devices, Meta could significantly increase VR adoption, potentially making it a mainstream technology in 2024.