Meta Connect Event Expected to Debut New Quest 3S Headset

In September, Meta is expected to reveal its new mixed-reality headset. During the Meta Connect keynote, the new Quest 3S is said to be on the roster of reveals.

It’s being reported that Meta Quest 3S will be a new entry-level mixed-reality headset under Meta’s portfolio. According to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, Quest 3S (an internal working title) will likely be made available at a cheaper price point. Gurman suggests Meta aims for a price point of around $300 to $400 USD (around $405 to $540 CAD). In Canada, the Quest 3 starts at $649.

According to the report, to get Quest 3S at a lower price point, Meta is believed to be considering shipping the headset on its own and selling the controllers separately. However, Gurman also notes that some SKUs of the new headset could include the controllers.

Word on the Quest 3S began popping up as early as May of this year. Meta seemingly accidentally leaked the working name on the app store page for Alo Moves XR, a VR yoga app. Adding to this, stock levels of the Quest 2 have been dwindling since earlier this year. With the company seemingly tapping the well dry of its entry-level headset, now could be the time to introduce a new model.

On top of the reveal of its Quest 3S, Meta is also expected to show off “a prototype” of its new AR smart glasses. Known as Orion, the new device is expected to be similar to the Meta Ray-Ban glasses. Orion may leverage built-in speakers, a camera, and AI capabilities. However, the company may also introduce on-screen functions. Gurman believes this will be used as an “AR-like display”. It’s believed that at Meta Connect, the company will also “show off new AI-driven software.”