Meta and Microsoft Enhance Enterprise VR Collaboration

Metaverse hardware options

The metaverse hardware landscape features four distinct types, each offering unique experiences and applications. Augmented Reality (AR) devices, such as Magic Leap 2 overlay digital information onto the real world. They are priced between £3,000-£4,000, but offer significant ROI with up to 10X productivity gains.

Assisted Reality devices, like those from Vuzix and Realwear, provide supplementary information in a more affordable range ($800-$2,000) and are used for simpler tasks such as logistics and remote assistance.

Mixed Reality (MR) devices, exemplified by MetaQuest, blend real-world views with virtual elements and are suited for work and collaboration, priced around $400.

Virtual Reality (VR) headsets, such as Apple VisionPro, offer a fully immersive experience ideal for gaming, with a price tag of $3,000+, and seamlessly integrate with Apple's ecosystem for a cohesive experience.

The Metaverse market size

Market Trends

Hardware: In 2023, the headworn hardware market was valued at $2.32 billion, projected to surge to $35.26 billion by 2027 due to growing enterprise demand.
Software: The market is expected to exceed $35 billion by 2025, with the consumer segment at $18.9 billion and the enterprise segment at $16.1 billion. Gaming dominates the consumer market ($11.6 billion), while healthcare ($5.1 billion) and engineering ($4.7 billion) lead the enterprise and public sector.

Hardware Segments

Augmented Reality (AR)
Assisted Reality
Mixed Reality (MR)
Virtual Reality (VR)

Meta Quest 2 vs Meta Quest 3: The Comparison

If you're considering investing in a Meta Quest VR headset, understanding the differences between the Meta Quest 2 and the newer Meta Quest 3 is essential to make an informed decision.

Release: 4 years newer than Meta Quest 2.
Mixed Reality: Supports mixed-reality experiences; Meta Quest 2 only supports immersive VR.
Performance: Features the more powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor.
Storage & Memory: Options for 128GB or 512GB storage and 8GB RAM (2x more than Meta Quest 2).
Battery Life: Same 2-3 hour battery life as the Meta Quest 2.

Microsoft and Meta expand their AI partnership.

Meta and Microsoft have deepened their partnership with three key developments that significantly enhance Meta’s enterprise capabilities and Microsoft's AI and VR offerings.

Impact and Future Prospects

Enterprise Credentials: These advancements bolster Meta's position in the enterprise market, making it a more competitive option for business and collaboration solutions.
AI and VR Synergy: The integration of Llama 2 models with Azure and Windows facilitates powerful AI-driven applications, while enhanced support for Microsoft Mesh promises transformative virtual meeting and workspace experiences.
Responsible AI Development: Both companies emphasise responsible AI practices, with Azure providing tools for safe and effective model deployment and integration.

Meta Quest for Business

Meta Quest for Business equips Meta Quest devices with essential features for enterprise use, including user, device, and app management, alongside robust customer support.

Casting Feature The casting function allows users to display their Meta Quest view on external screens via a web browser, aiding in training, demonstrations, and presentations.
Eligibility and Pricing Organisations in supported countries can sign up for Meta Quest for Business, which includes a paid subscription beyond the cost of the headsets. A 30-day free trial is available, after which a monthly subscription is required.

This article provides an overview of Meta Quest for Business's key features and capabilities, and how Microsoft Mesh enhances collaborative virtual experiences.

Microsoft and Meta Partner to Deliver Immersive Experiences For the Future of Work and Play

Microsoft Teams as a Central Collaboration Platform:

Microsoft Teams has become an essential tool for workplace collaboration, reaching 270 million monthly active users. Its growth underscores its importance in business processes and virtual teamwork.

The Role of the Metaverse in Future Work:

As employees seek more immersive collaboration methods, Microsoft believes the metaverse will play a crucial role. Work Trend Index data reveals that 50% of Gen Z and millennials anticipate working in the metaverse within the next two years.

Meta Quest 3S: Cheaper, but is it nearly as good as the Quest 3?

Key Highlights:

Affordable Alternative: The Meta Quest 3S offers a cost-effective VR solution without sacrificing core features, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers and businesses.

Seamless Integration with Meta Tools: The device is expected to work seamlessly with Meta's platform, including Meta Business Suite, making it ideal for professional use.

Competitive Pricing: Positioned as a more affordable option, the Quest 3S could replace the Quest 2, appealing to a broader audience and expanding Meta's market reach.

Meta Quest 2 vs Meta Quest 3: Which is best for you?

Oculus Link Performance:

Both the Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3 were evaluated on how well they handle Oculus Link, crucial for accessing high-end PC VR content. We identified which device offers smoother connectivity and better performance.

Quest Titles Quality:

We compared the quality and variety of Quest titles available on each device, assessing how well each headset supports and enhances the gaming and content experience.

Oculus Mobile App Integration:

The integration with the Oculus mobile app was analysed to determine which headset offers a more seamless and user-friendly experience when managing content and settings.

The Meta AR Glasses: Release Date, Rumours, and Updates

Advanced AR Capabilities:

Meta's AR glasses are expected to feature cutting-edge technology, including high-resolution displays and seamless integration with the Meta ecosystem. These glasses are designed to deliver immersive augmented reality experiences, blending digital content with the real world in innovative ways.

Potential Impact on Workspaces:

The glasses could revolutionise the future of work by enhancing collaboration and productivity. With features that might include real-time data overlays and interactive avatars in virtual meetings, these AR glasses are set to transform traditional workspaces into dynamic, interactive environments.

Boosting Productivity with the Meta Quest 3: The Future of Meetings

As traditional video conferencing struggles with issues like "Zoom fatigue" and engagement problems, the Meta Quest 3 is poised to transform meetings and collaboration.

Immersive Collaboration Spaces: Enter shared virtual environments for enhanced interaction and engagement, allowing for real-time manipulation of 3D models and brainstorming.
Enhanced Focus and Reduced Distractions: Create an all-encompassing environment that helps participants stay focused and reduces multitasking.
Breaking Down Geographical Barriers: Facilitate effective collaboration among remote teams by creating a shared virtual space.

Microsoft and Meta partner: Immersive experiences for future work

Microsoft's partnership with Meta is at the forefront of this transformation, combining Microsoft’s enterprise software with Meta’s VR/AR hardware to create a new ecosystem for collaboration. Key highlights include:

Enhanced Collaboration: Microsoft Mesh and Meta Quest devices enable immersive, interactive virtual meetings, allowing for natural interactions and real-time problem-solving.
Seamless Integration: The collaboration merges Microsoft's software capabilities with Meta’s hardware, using tools like spatial audio and avatars to improve virtual meetings.
Dynamic Workspaces: Advanced spatial computing allows users to navigate and interact in 3D virtual environments, enhancing productivity and engagement.

Meta Quest 3S: A Powerful Alternative at a Lower Price Point

Meta is reportedly preparing to launch a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, tentatively named the Quest 3S, to replace the Quest 2.

Key Highlights:

Design and Performance: The Quest 3S is anticipated to have a bulkier form factor and slightly lower resolution compared to the Quest 3, but it will still deliver strong performance and support the same VR content.
Pricing: Estimated at around £300, the Quest 3S aims to offer a cost-effective alternative to the Quest 3, potentially appealing to both casual users and professionals.
Integration: The Quest 3S is expected to integrate seamlessly with Meta’s broader ecosystem, including business tools like Meta for Work and collaboration platforms like Microsoft Mesh, enhancing its value for both consumer and enterprise markets.

Meta Quest 3 & VR - The measurable impact on meeting productivity

The Meta Quest 3 is setting a new standard for mixed reality in business, offering advanced features that enhance meetings and productivity.

Key Features:

Advanced Specifications: The Meta Quest 3 boasts impressive visuals and a comfortable design, making it ideal for detailed presentations, immersive training, and interactive meetings.
Storage: The headset does not support memory upgrades or external storage, but offers various built-in storage options to accommodate a range of needs.
VR Impact on Productivity: Studies from Munster University and PwC highlight the benefits of VR in improving meeting effectiveness, reducing fatigue, and enhancing overall productivity. Metrics show significant increases in planning, problem-solving, and participation when using VR.

Meta Quest 3 128GB Availability: Last 311 Units Remaining

Packed with cutting-edge technology and designed for both beginners and seasoned VR users, this headset delivers an unmatched virtual reality experience.

The Meta Quest 3 is also highly versatile, supporting various applications, including Meta for Work solutions. Its high-resolution display and powerful Snapdragon XR2 chip ensure smooth, crystal-clear visuals, even in graphically intensive scenarios. With wireless capability, users can enjoy complete freedom of movement without the need for a PC or console, making it a truly standalone VR solution.

Meta and Mesh Research Lab