In a recent twist of events, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, has refuted claims of the cancellation of the Quest Pro line of XR hardware. A report from The Information suggested that Meta was winding down the Quest Pro, including any future ‘Pro’ line products. However, Bosworth took to Instagram Stories to clear the air and urged people not to believe everything they read.
The report from The Information indicated that Meta had ceased ordering new components for the headset from suppliers. Although the current $1,000 Pro-branded mixed reality headset may continue to be sold as long as there is sufficient stock, the report alleged that the entire Pro line was suspended, making a second-generation highly unlikely.
Responding to the claims, Bosworth stated that his team at Meta is continuously working on multiple prototypes for all their projects, without confirming or denying the existence of a Quest Pro 2. He emphasized that until a headset is ready for release, it does not receive an official name. Bosworth suggested that some projects are terminated during development, leading to potential leaks or misunderstandings about product cancellations.
It’s evident that the Quest Pro line has faced challenges from the beginning. Initially launched in October 2022 at a price of $1,500, Meta swiftly reduced the cost by $500 just a few months later, settling on the current $1,000 price tag. Meanwhile, the Quest 2 has undergone various price adjustments, ranging from $300 to $400 for the 128GB variant.
The primary purpose of the Quest Pro has been rather ambiguous, as Meta has loosely marketed it as a potential workstation for professionals. However, in reality, the Quest Pro has functioned more as a developer kit for studios working on consumer applications for the more affordable Quest 3, slated for release in Fall 2023 at $500. Users of the Quest Pro have also reported numerous usability issues since its launch, contributing to a perception that it may not be as polished as Meta had hoped.
Regardless of the challenges, should Meta pursue a Quest Pro 2, it would need to present a clearer value proposition for the product. It is essential to address the reported usability concerns and offer distinctive features that set it apart from other XR hardware in the market.
The situation surrounding the Quest Pro highlights the complexities of product development and the need for clear communication. Rumors and leaks from disgruntled employees can create confusion and uncertainty among consumers and industry observers. Meta’s response underlines the ongoing nature of hardware development and the constant exploration of various prototypes before committing to a final product.
As the landscape of XR technology evolves, companies like Meta must carefully consider their product strategies and ensure that they cater to the needs of their target audience effectively. Balancing functionality, pricing, and usability will be critical in determining the success of future XR hardware offerings.
In conclusion, while reports of the Quest Pro line’s cancellation have been disputed by Meta’s CTO Andrew Bosworth, the company faces challenges in defining the product’s purpose and addressing usability issues. As development continues, it remains to be seen whether a Quest Pro 2 will emerge with a more focused value proposition, meeting the expectations of both professionals and consumers in the ever-evolving XR market.
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