MENLO PARK, CA – The Quest 3S Xbox Edition has swiftly sold out on Meta’s official website just three days after its release, highlighting strong consumer demand for this limited-edition device.
Immediate Impact
Meta’s latest virtual reality headset, the Quest 3S Xbox Edition, has vanished from the company’s online store, leaving potential buyers scrambling for alternative purchasing options. Despite its absence from Meta.com, other retailers like Best Buy in the United States still list the device as available, albeit with a peculiar delivery or pickup window starting July 10.
Key Details Emerge
In the United Kingdom, some locations continue to offer same-day pickup for the Xbox edition, providing a glimmer of hope for European customers eager to secure the device. The $400 headset, bundled with a collectible Xbox controller, represents a significant collaboration between Meta and Microsoft, merging VR technology with console gaming.
By the Numbers
eBay listings show recent sales for the Xbox edition ranging from $300 to $600.
Industry Response
The announcement comes as Meta encourages consumers to explore the Quest 3 and 3S models for Xbox gameplay. This strategic move aligns with Meta’s broader vision to blend VR experiences with traditional gaming, a trend that has been gaining traction in the industry.
Background Context
This development builds on the legacy of the original Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest, with the Quest 3S featuring the same lens technology as the 2018 Oculus Go. Meta’s collaboration with Microsoft marks a pivotal moment in VR history, potentially signaling the end of an era for standalone Oculus devices.
Expert Analysis
According to industry analyst David Heaney, who discussed the topic on the VR Download broadcast, the inclusion of familiar lens technology suggests a continuation of Meta’s commitment to refining VR hardware while paving the way for future innovations.
What Comes Next
Meanwhile, a new line of Horizon OS headsets is on the horizon, expected to incorporate Meta’s latest research innovations. These headsets aim to project Meta’s software onto eyewear, potentially revolutionizing how users interact with VR in the coming decades.
The timing is particularly significant because it coincides with Meta’s strategic push into the next generation of VR technology, promising exciting developments for enthusiasts and casual users alike.
As the Quest 3S Xbox Edition continues to capture the attention of consumers worldwide, the industry watches closely to see how Meta’s latest offering will influence the future of virtual reality and gaming.
