Meta is reportedly joining forces with LG for the development of upcoming Quest Pro virtual reality headsets. In November of the previous year, South Korean news outlet SBS Biz disclosed that Meta was in discussions with LG Display to secure OLED microdisplays for future headset models. These microdisplays offer significantly higher pixel densities, allowing for enhanced resolution and more compact headset designs.
A recent report from another Korean news outlet, Maeil Business Newspaper, suggests that this initial collaboration has expanded into a broader partnership involving various subsidiaries of the LG Group. Together, they are working on the production of future Quest Pro headsets. LG Electronics is expected to handle manufacturing, utilizing LG Display screens, LG Energy batteries, and components from LG Innotek. The first product resulting from this partnership is anticipated to be available in 2025, with an estimated price of around $2000.
While industry estimates may speculate that the headset could be named "Quest 4 Pro," it is more likely to follow Meta's current naming scheme, and the name "Quest Pro 2" seems more plausible.
This partnership follows Meta's previous collaborations with experienced consumer electronics companies for VR headsets, such as Xiaomi for Oculus Go and Lenovo for Oculus Rift S. It remains to be seen how LG's branding will be incorporated into the reported 2025 headset.
Notably, Meta is also reportedly planning to release an affordable headset in 2024, though details on this device are limited. It's suggested that this headset could be priced under $200, but this seems ambitious considering the current pricing of the three-year-old Quest 2 at $300.
Regarding the partnership with LG, Meta's aim may be to expedite the release of a high-resolution headset to compete with Apple's Vision Pro, set to launch in 2024 at a price of $3500, featuring ultra-high-resolution Sony OLED microdisplays and realistic 'Persona' avatars. Apple is facing production challenges that may limit the initial availability of Vision Pro, potentially giving Meta and LG an opportunity to enter the market.
Additionally, Samsung and Google are reportedly targeting a similar price range of approximately $2000 for their high-end XR headsets, setting the stage for a competitive market in the near future.