Meta introduces VR glasses for professional users

Meta has unveiled its Quest Pro virtual and mixed reality headset. The company plans to sell the device starting October 25 for $1,499. Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg said that by merging the physical and digital worlds, completely new possible applications are imaginable.

The launch is an important step for Zuckerberg, who last year announced plans for the device — then known as Project Cambria. By renaming his company from Facebook to Meta, Zuckerberg made clear what goal he wants to pursue in the future: the development of a 3D world known as Metaverse.

Tracking sensors recognize facial expressions

The Meta Quest Pro offers numerous improvements over its predecessor, the Quest 2. Most notable is an outward-facing camera that captures the user’s environment and allows virtual objects to be inserted into the real world.

For the first time, Meta VR glasses are equipped with tracking sensors. This allows the user’s eye movements and facial expressions to be transferred to the virtual world.

In contrast to the Meta Quest 2, the glasses are mainly aimed at professional users who want to use the device for business. This could be, for example, designers and architects who want to use the glasses to present their work in virtual locations before it is finished.

Meta offers its own platforms and services for professional meetings in the virtual world. A collaboration with Microsoft is also intended to make virtual versions of the programs Word, Outlook and Teams available.

The Meta Quest Pro is just one of four planned VR goggles that the company plans to release by 2024. CEO Zuckerberg sees the future of the internet in his metaverse, to which the glasses represent access.

(t-online/sha)