Apple’s Vision Pro Headset Loses Competitive Advantage
Meta Supports Spatial Video Playback on Meta Quest
In a significant move, Meta has announced that its more affordable Meta Quest headset will now support spatial video playback. This feature was previously exclusive to Apple’s Vision Pro headset and iPhone 15 Pro devices, which allowed users to film and relive their memories in three dimensions.
What is Spatial Video?
Spatial video, also known as stereoscopic videos, are videos that can be filmed with any iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max. This feature was introduced by Apple with the release of iOS 17.2 in December, allowing users to film in three dimensions and relive their favorite memories through Apple’s mixed-reality headset.
Meta’s Adoption of Spatial Video
The addition of spatial video support on Meta Quest is a significant development for both companies. On one hand, it makes iPhone 15 Pro devices a more compelling buy if spatial videos can be viewed on other VR devices. On the other hand, it may potentially sour customers on spending big bucks on the Vision Pro headset if they already have a Meta Quest or are in the market for new VR gear.
Competitive Advantage
Apple’s Vision Pro headset is priced at $3,500, but costs closer to $4,600 with necessary add-ons and accessories. In contrast, Meta’s Quest lineup has lower-cost options, including the currently $250 Quest 2, $500 Quest 3, and $1,000 Quest Pro. The addition of spatial video support on Meta Quest levels the playing field for both companies.
How to Upload Spatial Videos to Meta Quest
After installing the v62 software update, users will be able to upload their spatial video recordings to their Meta Quest headset using the Quest mobile app. This allows them to experience their memories in 3D. The uploaded content will be converted for playback on the Meta Quest hardware and stored in the cloud.
Managing Spatial Videos
Users can manage their videos from the Meta Quest mobile app gallery or the new spatial videos section of the Files menu on their headset. They can select the videos they want to watch from this menu, allowing them to relive their favorite memories in 3D.
Other Improvements
In addition to spatial video support, the v62 software update also brings several other improvements to Meta Quest. These include:
- Support for External Gamepads: The update allows users to connect external gamepads, including PlayStation and Xbox controllers, via Bluetooth or USB-C.
- Enhanced Support for PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controllers: The update includes enhanced support for PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controllers and PlayStation 4 DualShock, allowing users to play games like Halo Infinite or Forza Horizon 5 with the Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) App.
- Facebook Livestreaming: Facebook livestreaming is now available to all Meta Quest users, allowing them to stream their VR activities to their friends.
Mixed Reality Navigation
Meta has also improved the navigation capabilities of its headset. Users can perform common actions by looking down at their palm and then performing a simple gesture – like a short pinch to show and hide the Universal Menu or a long pinch to recenter the display. This change is likely Meta’s response to Apple’s mixed reality navigation, which allows users to interact with virtual objects in 3D space.
Conclusion
The addition of spatial video support on Meta Quest has leveled the playing field for both companies. While it makes iPhone 15 Pro devices a more compelling buy, it also reduces the competitive advantage of the Vision Pro headset. The update brings several other improvements to Meta Quest, including support for external gamepads and enhanced support for PlayStation 5 DualSense Wireless Controllers.
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