Meta Plans Cheaper Headsets, No Controllers

Meta is reportedly working on its next-generation mixed-reality headset and is eyeing to make them cheaper, according to Bloomberg.

Meta Feels Pressure from Apple's Headset

In Mark Gurman's Power On newsletter for Bloomberg, Meta is reportedly racing towards new offers for its headsets. A Meta employee unveiled to Power On that the company is now in the "afraid of Apple stage."

As part of its competitive edge, Meta is planning to release a cheaper mixed-reality headset that bears similarities with the upcoming Quest 3 but features less costly materials. It seems that Meta is eyeing to offer a mid-range mixed-reality headset to attract more consumers.

There are two ways for Meta to successfully reposition their upcoming headset; to cost-cut the components and to remove the hand controllers on the bundle. Quest models are usually equipped with hand controllers as it can be a pain navigating through the virtual keyboard.

Meta Struggles to Meet Sales Expectations for Quest

Last September 27, Meta launched the exciting features of its new virtual-reality headset, Quest 3. While the device has improved its performance compared to its predecessor, Quest 2, Meta is reportedly struggling with its declining demand.

In fact, Meta is not new to this scenario. Last year, the company launched its Quest Pro and did not do well in the market. Meta had to cut to down its price from $1,500 to $1,000 after not seeing the expected demand.

For now, Meta still hopes that its consumers will eventually come through this new technology especially since the company has released its smart glasses with Ray-Ban. The company is reportedly testing the screens internally and is hoping to bounce back by 2025.