Primarily based on the leaks and rumors it appears more and more possible that Meta is engaged on a less expensive model of the Meta Quest 3 – anticipated to be known as the Meta Quest 3 Lite or Meta Quest 3s.
It’s not but been confirmed, however the gadget is anticipated to be a extra reasonably priced model of the Quest 3 – at a worth nearer to the Quest 2 – that might see the Meta totally part out its last-gen VR {hardware}. The trade-off could be the machine wouldn’t have all of the capabilities of the Quest 3 – possible sporting lower-resolution shows, much less RAM, a worse chipset, or dropping combined actuality help (although that final level appears unlikely).
Whereas we’re not satisfied the gadget will look precisely like what’s been rumored up to now, because the saying goes: the place there’s smoke there’s hearth. The truth that a number of impartial leaks have come out suggests Meta is unquestionably engaged on one thing.
We’ve collected the newest information and rumors right here so this web page can function your one-stop store for all issues Meta Quest 3 Lite. As we study extra concerning the machine we’ll you should definitely replace the web page and preserve you within the loop with all the newest info.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: Newest information
We’ve seen not one, however two distinct Meta Quest 3 Lite leaks – one render known as the Meta Quest 3 Lite and one with extra particulars that the leaker known as the Quest 3s.
The Oculus Quest 2 was additionally at a document low worth ($200 / £200) as a part of this yr’s Amazon Spring Sale, following a everlasting worth reduce to $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$439.99 earlier this yr. This may very well be an indication Meta and retailers try to shift inventory forward of the last-gen machine being phased out earlier than a Quest 3 Lite launch.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: Worth
Because the Meta Quest 3 Lite isn’t but official – that means Meta itself hasn’t confirmed (or denied) its existence – we are able to’t say for sure how a lot it’ll value or when will probably be launched.
However primarily based on rumors and former Meta {hardware} releases, we are able to make some reasoned predictions on what the gadget may cost and after we might see it in motion.
Worth-wise, we are able to moderately count on it’ll value across the identical as Meta’s last-gen headset, given the Lite is billed as a super-affordable mannequin meant to totally substitute the Oculus Quest 2. It’ll definitely value lower than the Meta Quest 3.
This may possible see it launched at round $299 / £299 / AU$479, which is the place the Quest 2 began life. Truthfully, we’d be greater than a little bit dissatisfied if it was dearer.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: Launch date
As for the Quest 3 Lite’s launch date, Meta often likes to launch new {hardware} in October. Nevertheless, it would determine to combine issues up with this budget-friendly gadget to keep away from complicated it with its most important line Quest and Quest Professional traces.
We predict the Quest 3 Lite can be introduced and launched as a part of this yr’s Meta Quest Gaming Showcase, which ought to be round June primarily based on earlier years.
If Meta sticks to its traditional {hardware} launch schedule, although, then a launch after this yr’s Meta Join – which we count on will land in September or October – may very well be on the playing cards.
In fact, this assumes the Meta Quest 3 Lite even launches in any respect.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: Specs and design
To date we haven’t heard many specs for the Meta Quest 3 Lite. The primary leaks up to now have been renders displaying off its potential design.
😶🌫️nonetheless pancake? https://t.co/Kr1EmRRjpd pic.twitter.com/4zHpuqeXFzMarch 15, 2024
These leaks counsel it’ll be bulkier than the Quest 3, possible as a result of the Lite would undertake the fresnel lens system utilized by the Quest 2. This makes some sense as fresnel lenses are cheaper, partly as a result of the choice pancake lenses require brighter shows. Nevertheless, contemplating pancake lenses lead not solely to a slimmer headset design but additionally higher picture high quality (and we’ve seen low-cost headsets just like the Pico 4 use pancake lenses) we’d be shocked if Meta did not use them within the Lite.
One of many leaks went into extra detailed specs, suggesting it’ll have 128GB or 256GB of storage (as a substitute of the 128GB or 512GB within the Quest 3) and 1,832 x 1,920 pixel shows (one per eye). One thing appears off concerning the leak, although, by way of the belongings shared and the included information that would assist determine the leaker (which looks like a nasty concept for anybody attempting to keep away from the wrath of Meta’s well-funded authorized crew).
Meta Quest 3 Lite may very well be “Meta Quest 3S”u/LuffySanKira on Reddit claims they had been proven these graphics in what was possible a Meta Consumer Analysis Zoom assembly.I can not confirm them, however I CAN confirm Meta does suggestions classes like these. pic.twitter.com/DjkZnVMP6bMarch 16, 2024
As such, shade us skeptical in the case of the main points highlighted within the submit.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: Software program
Assuming the Meta Quest 3 Lite has the identical or comparable mixed-reality capabilities because the Meta Quest 3, we count on it’ll have entry to the entire identical software program – which is to say, the whole lot accessible on the Quest platform’s Retailer (and lots of different video games and apps accessible by sideloading by way of third-party digital storefronts).
If it has considerably worse specs – such because the Quest 2’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 chipset – there could also be some software program that launches sooner or later that might be unique to the complete Quest 3. However we count on the Quest 3 Lite would use a Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 so, hopefully, this received’t be a problem.
We’ll have to attend and see what Meta publicizes.
Meta Quest 3 Lite: What we wish to see
As for what we wish to see from the Quest 3 Lite VR headset – acknowledging that its cheaper price will necessitate decrease specs than the Meta Quest 3 correct – our superb setup would boast the identical Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset and 8GB of RAM because the Quest 3, although 6GB of RAM just like the Quest 2 is, admittedly, much more possible.
Storage choices would begin at 64GB – as frankly, you don’t want loads of space for storing for VR apps, particularly if you happen to’re prepared to obtain and delete them as vital – and the shows could be a decrease decision than the Quest 3. A leak prompt the 1,832 x 1,920 pixels per eye choice, and contemplating that is what’s utilized by the Quest 2 it does make some sense.
Pancake lenses seem to be a simple win from a design and image-quality perspective (particularly if Meta opts for poorer shows), and mixed-reality passthrough that’s not less than as high-quality because the Quest 3 can be a should.
Past this, one rogue cost-cutting measure might see Meta scrap or change its Quest 3 controllers. Nevertheless, given how a lot builders have emphasised to us the significance of VR handsets having a normal design, and the truth that many Quest titles don’t help hand-tracking, this may be a step too far.
