Meta Unveils Ambitious Plans for Future VR Headsets

According to a recent internal presentation, Meta is poised to launch at least three new virtual reality headsets in the coming years. The presentation, which outlined Meta's plans for its Reality Labs division, included details on the company's upcoming AR and VR products. A next-generation Quest headset, codenamed Stinson and slated for release later this year, is expected to be thinner, more powerful, and slightly more expensive than its predecessor, with a focus on mixed reality features and an expanded library of 41 new games and apps. However, Meta's VP of virtual reality, Mark Rabkin, noted the challenge of convincing consumers to pay a premium for the new device, stating that the company must demonstrate the value of its enhanced features to enthusiasts. Following the release of the Quest 3, Meta plans to launch a more affordable VR headset, codenamed Ventura, in 2024, with the goal of delivering a high-quality VR experience at an attractive price point. A third headset, codenamed La Jolla, is also in development, although its release date is less certain. Rabkin also discussed the company's growth and retention challenges, revealing that while 20 million Quest headsets have been sold to date, newer users have shown less engagement with the device. Looking ahead, Meta has announced plans for a first-generation AR glasses product, accompanied by a smartwatch, in 2025, with the long-term goal of replacing smartphones with smart glasses. The company's Orion project, an AR glasses initiative that has been in development for eight years, is expected to launch in 2027.