The annual conference of Facebook simply renamed Connect 2021 was an opportunity for its CEO Mark Zuckerberg to present to us his vision of Metaverse.

But above all to confirm that the new name of the Meta group becomes the brand of the next mixed reality devices (AR and/or VR) from Oculus. Thus theOculus Quest 2 should quickly take the name of Meta Quest 2.

Meta thus presented two projects. The first concerns augmented reality glasses (we understand better the shape of the Meta logo). While the second, under the code name " Cambria project " Meta's next high-end virtual reality headset. So I decided to call it the Meta Quest Pro and to detail what we know and hope for from this project.

Items announced for the Meta Quest Pro

THE Cambria project is preparing a high-end VR headset with a naturally higher price tag that the Meta Quest (or Quest 2 current).

Indeed, it must incorporate all the latest technologies that we have also been able to discover in the announcements from Pimax, Varjo Or Arpara.

But also take advantage of software developments created by developers with the new “Presence Platform” which includes the Passthrough API, improved interactions with the hand and advanced use of voice commands directly in apps and games.

- Real-time eye tracking and facial tracking. This technology is used to transmit your real-life facial expressions to your virtual reality avatar. A solution for social or professional interactions.
- Color passthrough. A new feature that's ideal for enjoying augmented reality while wearing your headset. Apps or games can add objects or characters to the view of your real environment. This allows for virtual images to be superimposed on our real world.
- Improved optics for a sharper image, deep blacks without grid effect. Meta is moving away from Fresnel optics to what they call Pancakes Optics !
- Voice commands in games and apps.

Meta Quest Pro Features

Here are the features that I consider likely on the next VR headset :

- Helmet type : AR/VR
- Standalone or PC-connected operating mode (wired or wireless)
- Processor Qualcomn XR2
- 2 Pancake screens with a resolution of 2560 x 2560 px
- F-OV or field of vision : 110°
- IPD adjustment from 56 to 72 mm (pupillary distance)
- Display frequency or refresh rate : 90 to 120 Hz
- Storage 8 Go with 256 Go
- Built-in 4600 battery my

Features and accessories

Controllers : 2 rechargeable batteries on magnetic base
Facial movement recognition
Color passthrough
Motion detection : with cameras, without external base
Dimensions and maximum weight 400 grams

Connection and connectivity

Login Wi-Fi 6 And Bluetooth 5.2.
A USB-C port 3.2 (charging and/or PC connection)
A 3.5 audio jack mm.

Meta Quest Pro Price and Launch Date

The next VR headset is announced for 2022. Based on the launch dates of previous models, the Meta Quest Pro could be launched in May 2022 (like the Oculus Quest and Rift) or in October 2022 (Quest 2).

As for the price, Meta has clearly announced a move upmarket. Currently, the competition offers the very high end from 1990 €, while the Meta Quest or Quest 2 is only 349 €. The range is therefore very wide.

High-end VR headset competition 2022

Arpara is now marketing its Arpara 5K and a standalone version to come.
Varjo has just launched the Varjo Aero, a PC VR headset powerful at 1 990 € (without bases and controllers)
The sublime and all-powerful Pimax Reality QLED 12K. A level of image never before offered in a VR headset which is announced for the end 2022. This leaves some time to have content using such performances.

For my part, I think that Meta, even by moving upmarket, will seek to offer a product that remains affordable in order to aim for mass marketing. For me, the price will therefore be between 799 € and 1299 €. Which corresponds to the price of the most powerful smartphones.

First Review Meta Quest Pro or Cambria Project

It has been a short time since the virtual reality headsets have become more democratic, and let's be honest, it's mainly thanks to the offer of VR headsets launched by Facebook and its Oculus Rift, Quest and Quest range 2. Certainly, during this month of October we had several announcements of remarkable products, but at prices between 2 000 and 3 000 €. It is then difficult to think of a mass market.

5 Criteria for Rating a Virtual Reality Headset

To have a good VR headset, there are 5 essential points for me to look carefully :

- Comfortable to wear.Lightweight at less than 450 grams, many adjustments such as IPD, head circumference, diopters (for use without prescription glasses)
- Easy to use with or without PC/console connection, with or without a cable and without an additional base to help you find your way around. This is what we call an AIO (All In One) VR headset.
- A best possible image quality for a good immersion (definition 4K, FOV 120°, refresh rate 120 Hz)
- A generous library of games and apps.
- A higher price by the greatest number (between €799 current price of a PSVR headset with a PS4 and €1299).

First Meta Quest Pro Review

- 7/10 for comfort
- 9/10 for ease of use (mixed with or without PC connection
- 9/10 with an existing library of more than 5 000 games and apps
- 6/10 for the general public price

But, currently the Oculus Quest 2 in its 128 version Go to 349 € is for me an excellent option to get started in virtual reality with a complete headset and satisfactory performance for leisure use. It is also a headset that can be used standalone or associated with a PC. This way you access a library of more than 5 000 games and applications already available. But also numerous accessories to improve your comfort (see below).

The choice of model Quest 2 in 256 Go to 449 € is perhaps less interesting. If you want more high-end, you might as well wait for the Meta Quest Pro model.

The Best Meta Quest Accessories

1. Protective Cover Accessories for Oculus Quest 2 VR
2. Elite strap Meta Quest
3. Silicone Protective Case for Oculus Quest 2 Headset

Meet Facebook's Next VR Headset: The Meta Quest Pro