Recent reports have surfaced regarding Meta’s decision to abandon the development of the highly anticipated Quest Pro 2 in favor of a new affordable mixed-reality headset codenamed Puffin. This new headset is said to revolutionize the VR industry with its lightweight design and innovative features.
Unlike its predecessor, the Meta Quest 3, which weighs 515 grams, the rumored Puffin device weighs less than 110 grams. Resembling a bulky pair of spectacles, the Puffin headset offers pancake lenses and passthrough functionality with cameras. This remarkable feat is achieved by separating the battery and processing hardware into an external tethered “puck,” similar to the Apple Vision Pro.
Innovative Features
The Puffin headset is rumored to implement a gesture-based control and input system, akin to the Apple Vision Pro, eliminating the need for physical controllers. This implies the presence of motion sensors on the headset, enhancing the user experience. Despite being in the realm of speculation, these features hint at a new era of immersive technology.
Meta’s CEO Response
Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, previously criticized the Apple Vision Pro’s cable and external power pack, emphasizing the advantages of wireless devices like the Quest. However, with the introduction of the Puffin headset, which is described as mixed reality rather than pure VR, Meta may navigate around this critique by embracing a different approach to immersive technology.
While the Puffin headset is not expected to launch until 2027, its potential impact on the industry is already generating buzz. Lighter and more ergonomic headsets like Puffin have the potential to attract a broader audience to VR, AR, and MR technologies. The future of immersive experiences may lie in seamlessly integrating technology into everyday objects, such as glasses or even implants.
Meta’s decision to shift its focus towards developing the Puffin headset signifies a significant step forward in the world of virtual reality. With its innovative design and groundbreaking features, the Puffin headset has the potential to redefine how we interact with immersive technology. As we look towards the future, the possibilities seem endless, promising a new era of boundless creativity and exploration.