Meta has introduced Quest 3, a mixed reality headset that allows users to interact with the real world and immerse themselves in virtual worlds. In this way, Meta plans to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

The base model Quest 3 with 128 GB of storage starts at $499.99 in the US, with pre-orders already open and delivery scheduled for October 10. The older model with 512 GB of internal memory is available for $649.99, and both versions come bundled with the new game Asgard’s Wrath 2.

Quest 3 is equipped with a Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor and 8 GB of RAM, which promises twice the graphics performance of its predecessor, Quest 2.

The device has a high-resolution 2064×2208 dot LCD display for each eye, offering a 15% increase in field of view compared to Quest 2. The lenses are adjustable, providing a customized user experience. Despite these improvements, the battery life remains the same as Quest 2, ranging from 90 minutes to three hours depending on usage.

One of the standout features of Quest 3 is its full-color front-facing cameras, which provide enhanced end-to-end video quality that allows users to interact with both virtual and real-world objects. Users can easily switch between modes using the controller or a double-tap gesture. The headset itself has been redesigned to improve comfort, although it is slightly heavier than the previous version.

For Quest 3, we created Touch Plus controllers that are smaller, lighter, and feature infrared sensors for position tracking and improved tactile sensitivity for a better gaming experience. It also supports hand motion tracking, giving users the option to go controller-free.

The Quest 3 is primarily marketed as a gaming device, compatible with a variety of games including Roblox, Assassin’s Creed Nexus, and Asgard’s Wrath 2. In addition, it serves as a fitness and wellness device, supporting apps such as Supernatural.