There are credible reports suggesting that Meta is gearing up to release a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, potentially named the Quest 3S. This new VR headset could serve as a replacement for the Quest 2, which Meta is currently offering at its lowest price ever. This price drop is likely aimed at clearing out inventory in anticipation of the Quest 3S's debut. While Meta has yet to make an official announcement, the Quest 3S is expected to be featured prominently at Meta Connect 2024. As for the price and release date, details remain under wraps, but the Quest 3S could provide a more budget-friendly alternative compared to the Quest Pro. Keep an eye on upcoming updates for the latest information on the Quest 3S price and release date.

Over the weekend, VR enthusiast Luna took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to encourage Quest developers to share insights about the Meta Quest 3S developer kit. Luna’s efforts reportedly received positive feedback, with Luna stating on X, "I have seen multiple devkits and spoken to several people familiar with the device. Here are all the things I have learned and feel comfortable sharing in a single infographic."

The infographic provided by Luna details the following Meta Quest 3 specifications:

• Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
• Display: Single Fast-Switch LCD with 1,832 by 1,920 pixels per eye (20 PPD)
• Frame Rate: 90/120 Hertz
• Lenses: Fresnel with 3-Position IPD/IAD adjustment and Quest 2 style glasses spacer
• Sensors: 4 x IR tracking cameras, 2 x 4 MP (18 PPD) RGB passthrough cameras, 2 x IR illuminators for depth sensing
• Controller: Touch Plus Controller
• Software Features: Same as Meta Quest 3 (space setup, inside-out body tracking, multimodal hand tracking)

Luna did not disclose details such as the price, the final product name, or the release window.

The upcoming Meta Quest 3S is anticipated to preserve the core experience of the Meta Quest 3, including full compatibility with Meta Quest 3 gameplay and existing titles. This VR headset is expected to retain high DPI for crisp visuals and may feature a memory upgrade to boost performance. The 3S design could refine the form factor while maintaining the immersive virtual reality experience of its predecessor. Additionally, the Quest 3S will likely integrate with the Quest Store, offering a seamless transition for users. While the Quest Pro offers a premium option, the Quest 3S aims to provide a more affordable alternative without compromising on key features. The potential introduction of AR glasses alongside the Quest 3S could further enhance the VR experience.

With potential improvements in areas such as storage and power efficiency, possibly through a new Quest 3 power adapter, the Meta Quest 3S could become highly appealing to businesses utilizing Meta Work and Workplace by Meta. These enhancements, along with anticipated updates, are likely to be significant talking points at upcoming Meta Connect events. The device may also integrate seamlessly with tools like Meta Business Suite desktop and the Meta platform, offering robust solutions for those using Meta for work. As details emerge, the Quest 3S is expected to bolster Meta’s presence in the VR and mixed reality headset market, continuing their momentum in both the business sector and beyond. Key specs, including the VR headset's performance and compatibility with the Meta Quest Store, will be closely watched by enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Quest 3S: Not much worse than Quest 3?

If these specifications hold true, the Meta Quest 3S would offer a compelling alternative to the Meta Quest 3. The VR headset is expected to have a resolution 30 percent lower than that of the Quest 3, aligning more closely with the Quest 2. It would use Fresnel lenses instead of the advanced pancake lenses found in the Quest 3, resulting in a slightly narrower field of view. Despite these changes, the frame rate would remain the same as in both the Quest 2 and Quest 3. The form factor of the Quest 3S would likely resemble the bulkier design of the Quest 2 due to the Fresnel lenses. This design choice may impact the headset's overall comfort and experience, but it will still deliver robust virtual reality capabilities. For those interested in gaming and immersive experiences, the Quest 3S aims to provide a solid balance of performance and affordability, maintaining strong compatibility with the Oculus ecosystem and Meta's VR hardware lineup.

Meta Quest 3S - Same chipset, mixed reality and controllers 

Despite the differences in resolution and lens technology, the Meta Quest 3S is set to leverage the same powerful chipset as the Meta Quest 3, delivering performance significantly superior to that of the Quest 2. The headset will feature passthrough cameras with specifications identical to those on the Quest 3, ensuring high-quality visuals. Additionally, the Quest 3S will include the same ringless controllers found in the Quest 3, maintaining a consistent user experience.

One key distinction is that the Quest 3S will be equipped with 2 IR illuminators instead of a single depth sensor, though the implications of this change are not yet fully understood. Nevertheless, Luna notes that the Quest 3S is expected to offer feature parity with the Meta Quest 3 at the software level, providing the same level of functionality for gameplay, Meta Quest 3 compatibility, and access to the Meta Quest 3 library. This ensures that users will have a robust virtual reality experience with both hardware and software aligned with Meta’s VR ecosystem.

MetaQuest 3S - Circa £300 a headset?

These specifications are impressive for a device estimated to cost around £300, especially when compared to the Meta Quest 3, which is priced at £500. The Meta Quest 3S could provide a compelling alternative for users interested in managing multiple Meta devices or those utilizing Meta for work. With features such as potential memory upgrades, the Quest 3S would cater to both casual users and professionals, particularly in VR for business scenarios.

The design of the Quest 3S might include a similar face interface to the Meta Quest 3, updated wrist straps, and a compatible power adapter. With storage options akin to those of the Meta Quest 3, the Quest 3S would seamlessly integrate into the broader Meta ecosystem, supporting Meta platform operations and enhancing the experience for both VR games and other applications. This new Quest headset could offer excellent value while maintaining strong compatibility with Oculus hardware and the Meta platform.

More Affordable - Easy to scale in Enterprise

In summary, the potential release of the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, could significantly impact the VR market.

Despite some compromises, such as a lower resolution, bulkier form factor, and the use of Fresnel lenses, the Quest 3S would still offer robust performance, featuring the same powerful chipset and ringless controllers as the Quest 3. With impressive specifications and anticipated software parity, the Quest 3S could provide exceptional value at an estimated £300, appealing to a wide range of users from casual gamers to professionals utilising VR for business.

As Meta continues to expand its ecosystem, including Meta for work, and collaboration tools like Microsoft mesh, the Quest 3S could seamlessly integrate into this broader platform, offering a cost-effective entry point into high-quality VR experiences and potentially boosting Meta’s position in both consumer and enterprise markets