Meta, a developer of popular virtual reality (VR) devices, has filed a patent for “Free-Form Light Field Displays,” which aims to bring multiple lenses into new iterations of the Meta Quest VR headset to increase the user’s field of view. The patent lists free form, liquid crystal, Fresnel, and pancake lenslets within the headset for the purpose of enhancing the user’s peripheral vision with the device. This patent follows rumors that Meta is looking to make changes to the lenses and implement an IPD (interpupillary distance) slider in the upcoming Meta Quest 3 headset, which is expected to launch in 2023.
Improvements to the Meta Quest Line
The Meta Quest line of VR headsets, which includes the popular Meta Quest 2, has seen numerous updates and improvements since the debut of the Oculus Rift in 2012. The latest iteration of the Meta Quest, the Meta Quest 3, is rumored to feature pancake lenses and an IPD slider, which allows users to customize the device for a more comfortable fit. In addition, the patent for multiple lenses aims to increase the field of view for the Meta Quest 3.
Competition in the VR Market
The Meta Quest 3 will face competition from several major developers in the VR space, including Sony, which is preparing to launch its PS VR2 platform on the PS5 in early 2022. SteamVR, an online marketplace that supports a wide variety of VR headsets, including Meta’s own hardware, has also posed significant competition for the Meta Quest. HTC is reportedly developing its own VR headset to directly compete with Meta’s products.
Meta Quest 3 Release Date
The Meta Quest 3 is expected to launch in 2023 and build upon the success of its predecessors as a popular VR gaming headset. The patent for multiple lenses and the rumored changes to the lenses and IPD slider are part of Meta’s efforts to improve the performance of the Meta Quest 3 and stand out in a competitive VR market. Despite the significant losses reported in Meta’s VR division in recent years, the company has continued to invest in the development of its VR platforms.
The Meta Quest 2 is available on Amazon for a little under $500, you can view the latest price here.
