Meta Quest 3S: Cheaper VR Headset Expected To Release In September 2024

Meta Quest 3S will be the lighter version of Meta Quest 3 (photo: x @Yamato_7d45)

JAKARTA - Meta, a technology company known for its leading virtual reality (VR) product, is rumored to be launching a cheaper version of their VR headset, Meta Quest 3, in September 2024. This product, called Meta Quest 3S, is expected to be an alternative option that is more economical for users who want to enjoy the high-quality VR experience without having to spend too much.

According to a leak from trusted sources, Meta Quest 3S will be the milder version of Meta Quest 3, which was launched in June last year. In the latest Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman, a well-known technology analyst, revealed that the new VR headset is likely to be sold for between US$300 (Rp4.6 million) to US$400 (Rp6.1 million), much cheaper than the initial price of Meta Quest 3 which reached US$499 (Rp7.7 million) for the 128GB model.

One way Meta reduces the production cost of Meta Quest 3S is by possibly not including controllers in its sales package. While this is a controversial move, Meta is trying to make Quest 3S a more affordable option.

However, this move also raises concerns among users, as controllers are an important part of the immersive VR experience. If controllers sell separately at a price of around 100 US dollars (Rp 1.5 million), then the total costs incurred by users will approach the standard Meta Quest 3 price, which can make Quest 3S concept less attractive.

However, many argue that Meta may still include controllers in Quest 3S packages, although it may be different from the controllers used in Meta Quest 3. This will ensure that users still get a satisfactory VR experience without having to spend additional costs.

Announcement At Connect Event September 2024

The official announcement of the Meta Quest 3S is expected to be made at the annual Connect event held at Meta headquarters in Menlo Park, California, on September 25 and 26, 2024. The event is expected to be a platform for Meta to reveal their various innovations in the field of virtual reality and augmented reality (AR).

In addition to Quest 3S, Mark Gurman also mentioned that Meta may introduce new AR glasses known as the code name "Orion". These glasses will be different from Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses that have received positive responses in the market, but will offer a similar concept in terms of integration of AR technology with everyday accessories.

Meta's move to launch cheaper versions of Quest 3 is seen as a response to current VR market dynamics. Although Apple released Vision Pro XR, their ultra-premium headset, consumers seem to want more affordable devices for gaming purposes, and Vision Pro doesn't meet those expectations. Meta, which previously also considered launching a premium headset that competes with Vision Pro, finally decided to focus on a wider market segment at a more competitive price.

With the presence of Meta Quest 3S, Meta hopes to expand its user base, especially among gamers looking for quality VR devices at a more reasonable price. The decision also shows Meta's flexibility in responding to changes in market trends and demand while maintaining their position as leaders in the global VR industry.

We will see how this product is accepted in the market after its launch in September, and whether Meta's strategy to offer cheaper versions of Quest 3 will be successful in attracting more consumers.