A Boon for VR Enthusiasts
Meta Platforms Inc. has slashed the price of its popular Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headset by half, making it a more accessible entry point for VR enthusiasts. The new permanent price of $199 applies to both the 128GB and 256GB models, as well as accessories like the Elite Strap with Battery.
Despite the release of the more advanced Quest 3, priced at $500, the Quest 2 remains a compelling option for those looking to experience VR without breaking the bank. It is compatible with all Quest games except for exclusives designed for the Quest 3. While it lacks certain features like color passthrough vision and optimal mixed reality gaming, it still offers a rich VR experience, especially with its capability to stream games from a PC or the Xbox cloud.
However, some concerns linger about Meta's long-term support for the Quest 2, given the company's history of discontinuing support for previous models. While Meta CTO Andrew "Boz" Bosworth has assured users that support for first-party games will continue for "quite a while," uncertainty remains regarding potential retroactive shutdowns of games on the Quest 2.
Despite these concerns, the Quest 2 remains a compelling choice for those looking to enter the world of VR. It is Meta's best-selling headset to date, constituting the majority of the 20 million headsets sold by Meta as of February 2023. Its popularity is a testament to its affordability and accessibility, making it a gateway for many into the immersive world of virtual reality.