The Meta Quest 3 is more expensive than its predecessor but now has color cameras for use in AR.

Just before Apple draws all the attention to potential VR glasses at WWDC next week, Meta is introducing the new Quest 3 to the general public. Compared to its predecessor, the glasses are up to 40 percent thinner and contain the latest Qualcomm chip for VR glasses, which has twice the GPU performance of the Quest 2.

The main change is found in the front with three prominent ovals that are packed with cameras and sensors. VR glasses traditionally shield you from the world, but the Meta Quest 3 can still show that environment via color cameras. The result is an AR effect in VR glasses. It also combines this technology with higher resolution per eye for greater realism.

Rounding out the set are new controllers that replace the traditional sensor circuit with a nicer, more integrated solution. There is haptic feedback in each controller to increase realism. If you wish, you can also perform the operation with your own hands, provided that the application supports it. The front cameras can detect any movement.

Any application you have already purchased or used within Quest or Quest 2 today is automatically compatible with Meta Quest 3. Future apps may only be compatible with the latest version as they require the higher processing power available in the VR glasses.

The Meta Quest 3 is expected in autumn this year and has a recommended retail price of 569.99 euros. A specific launch date will be announced later this year, possibly at the Meta Connect conference after the summer.