Today at Connect, Meta unveiled the Meta Quest 3S, a mixed reality headset priced at $299.99 USD. This new device offers similar capabilities and performance as the Meta Quest 3 but at a lower cost, targeting newcomers to mixed reality and those seeking an affordable upgrade from previous models.

The Meta Quest 3S includes features such as full-color Passthrough, improved spatial audio, and better support for essential 2D apps like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. "We’ve rebuilt Meta Horizon OS for spatial computing," the company stated. The headset also introduces Travel Mode, allowing users to operate it while in transit.

Meta has plans to expand Travel Mode to work on trains and support usage while lying down. Additionally, they aim to enhance Meta AI on Quest with the “Hey Meta” wake word feature.

Meta emphasizes that the Quest 3S is built on a foundation of trust with new privacy and data protection features. The device supports a wide range of activities from gaming to virtual concerts in Horizon Worlds’ Music Valley. It is compatible with thousands of apps and games, including upcoming exclusives like Batman: Arkham Shadow.

In conjunction with this release, Meta announced a price reduction for the 512GB Meta Quest 3 from $649.99 USD to $499.99 USD. This model remains geared towards tech enthusiasts and gamers with its higher storage capacity and advanced display technology.

Meta expressed optimism about making mixed reality more accessible through these updates.