Quest headsets Archives

BetaBeacon

December 14, 2024

Google Steps Up Mixed Reality Game with New Integration

Google is introducing a new Android XR operating system and Gemini AI for smart glasses and augmented reality, putting them in direct competition with Apple and Meta. The Android XR system, developed with Samsung, will power AR and VR experiences, with the Gemini AI enhancing user experience by facilitating conversations and device control. The integration of Android XR with Gemini 2.0 AI aims to create AI models capable of understanding the world and making decisions. Google plans to adapt popular apps for immersive experiences through Android XR, with prototype glasses undergoing testing soon. The company is optimistic about the transformative potential of Android XR in revolutionizing user interaction with technology.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Windows 11 Mixed Reality support revived for Meta Quest 3, Quest 3S headsets

Microsoft has revived its Mixed Reality feature, previously retired for all but the HoloLens, now limited to the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S. The integration includes three key features: immersive and private productivity, Windows 365 Cloud PCs, and easy PC connection. Users can connect to their PCs or subscribe to a Windows 365 Cloud PC for remote access via their headset. The broader Windows Mixed Reality program was officially retired in December 2023 after about six years, and its future beyond the partnership with Meta is uncertain. Windows Mixed Reality struggled to attract customers compared to other VR offerings, with the entry-level market led by Oculus and the high-end segment occupied by HTC and Valve.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

Finally! Meta Quest VR headsets can now connect to your Windows 11 PC — with up to 3 virtual monitors

Microsoft has partnered with Meta to introduce Windows 11 to Meta Quest headsets, allowing users to integrate their PC environments into mixed reality. This experience is currently available in public preview. The application, which can be downloaded from the store, connects with Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets, enabling access to Windows 11 PCs with up to three virtual monitors. The app is free to use and allows users to maintain awareness of their physical surroundings. Known issues include problems with Teams calls, audio routing, the Ctrl-Alt-Delete command terminating connections, lingering inactive connections, and potential quality issues with multiple displays if the PC's graphics specifications are insufficient. Microsoft plans to address these issues and incorporate user feedback. Meta's Quest VR headsets have gained popularity, particularly with the launch of the budget-friendly Quest 3S, and have attracted major gaming franchises and collaborations for mixed reality projects.

Winsage

November 22, 2024

Microsoft is Launching Automatic Quest 3 Pairing on Windows 11 PCs in December

Meta and Microsoft announced a collaboration to enable Windows 11 PCs to wirelessly pair with Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets, set to enter public preview in December. This integration will allow users to create a multi-monitor workspace similar to the Apple Vision Pro's capabilities. The feature aims to provide a seamless connection to local Windows PCs or Windows 365 Cloud PCs. Users can connect to their PCs by looking at their keyboard, allowing for easy movement of windows across virtual monitors. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated that the Quest headsets are evolving beyond gaming to serve as general computing platforms for various applications.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Meta Quest 3 will get better Windows support in December

Microsoft will introduce Windows in mixed reality in December, allowing users to access Windows 11 on Meta's Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets. This feature enables seamless connection to local Windows PCs or Windows 365 Cloud PCs, with public preview starting next month. The integration was first announced at Meta Connect 2022, and while Windows will not run directly on the headset, it will be streamed from a local PC or cloud. Meta recently showcased a feature that extends Windows 11 laptop screens to digital displays on Quest headsets. Initially, the preview will support only Quest 3 and Quest 3S, with potential future compatibility for more headsets.