Meta cancels its premium Mixed Reality headset, originally slated to compete with Apple Vision Pro. The decision comes amid challenges in the VR/AR market, including high costs and slow consumer adoption. Despite this setback, Meta remains committed to developing the Quest 4 and exploring the potential of augmented and virtual reality.

In a recent turn of events, Meta has reportedly put the brakes on its ambitious project to develop a high-end Mixed Reality (MR) headset that was poised to challenge Apple’s Vision Pro. Originally scheduled for a 2027 launch, this premium headset, internally codenamed “La Jolla,” was intended to incorporate cutting-edge micro OLED display technology, similar to that found in the Vision Pro, to deliver a high-resolution and immersive MR experience.

The Decision and its Implications

The news of this cancellation surfaced through a report by The Information, citing insider sources who revealed that Meta employees were instructed to cease development on the project during a recent product review meeting.

While Meta’s CTO Andrew Bosworth acknowledged the existence of various prototype projects, he emphasized that not all prototypes progress to the production stage. This suggests that Meta’s decision to shelve the premium MR headset was part of a larger strategic assessment and prioritization of resources.

Meta’s Ongoing Focus on VR/AR

Despite this setback, Meta’s commitment to the broader field of virtual and augmented reality remains unwavering. The company’s Reality Labs division, despite incurring substantial losses, continues to drive innovation in the VR/AR space. The upcoming Quest 4, anticipated for a 2026 release, is a testament to Meta’s persistent efforts to deliver accessible and engaging VR experiences.

Furthermore, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, maintains an optimistic outlook on the future of these technologies, recognizing their potential to reshape the way we interact with the digital world.

Industry-Wide Challenges

Meta’s decision to discontinue the premium MR headset also reflects some of the challenges that the VR/AR industry faces. Even established players like Apple have encountered hurdles, as evidenced by reports of the Vision Pro 2’s development being halted due to sluggish sales and technical complexities.

The VR/AR market is still in its nascent stage, and the high cost of entry for premium devices remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. This, coupled with the ongoing refinement of the underlying technology, necessitates a careful balancing act between innovation and commercial viability.

Looking Ahead

While Meta’s decision to cancel its Apple Vision Pro competitor may come as a surprise to some, it underscores the complexities and evolving dynamics of the VR/AR landscape. The company’s strategic shift could signify a renewed focus on delivering more affordable and accessible VR/AR experiences, potentially paving the way for greater mainstream acceptance of these transformative technologies.

About the author

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Lakshmi Narayanan

Lakshmi, with a BA in Mass Communication from Delhi University and over 8 years of experience, explores the societal impacts of tech. Her thought-provoking articles have been featured in major academic and popular media outlets. Her articles often explore the broader implications of tech advancements on society and culture.