Facebook launches a more powerful and affordable Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality headset



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Facebook has introduced a new virtual reality headset Oculus Quest 2. The second-generation Oculus Quest is distinguished by more compact dimensions, as well as updated components.

VR headsets are now based on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 processor, with artificial intelligence enhancements, lower power consumption, and Wi-Fi 6 support. RAM has been increased to 6GB and internal storage is now 256 GB. Tracking is done through Oculus Insight, which creates a 3D map of the environment without the need for external sensors.

The new strap provides more comfort when wearing the device.
The new strap provides more comfort when wearing the device. Credit: Facebook

Oculus Quest 2 is about 10% lighter than the original and is slightly smaller in size: it weighs 503 grams compared to 571 grams for the original model. It comes equipped with a 1,832 x 1,920 pixel per eye display and a 90 Hz refresh rate. The handset has built-in speakers and microphones and 2-3 hours of battery life.

This SoC (system on chip) has a performance twice as much in processor as in graphics; it is capable of displaying four times more pixels and more operations per second. That will give developers more leeway, who can create richer experiences, not just games with more realistic graphics.

The Quest was already surprisingly comfortable considering everything it had, but the Quest 2 has been redesigned to improve this aspect. It is a smaller device and the chosen gray color will make it more attractive to the average user than the original black. The new strap provides more comfort when wearing the device. It is possible to adjust the IPD (interpupillary distance) by choosing one of the three available options for greater visual comfort.

The Oculus Quest 2 is much cheaper than the first generation, priced at $ 299 for the base model with 64GB of storage. There is an increase to $ 399 for the more advanced model with 256GB of storage. Quest 2 pre-orders are now open in the US, launching on October 13.

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