Meta has officially released the Meta Quest Pro, a high-end mixed reality headset that blends virtual and real-world experiences. Unlike previous Quest models, which focused primarily on gaming, the Quest Pro targets professionals and enthusiasts who want both immersive VR and practical productivity tools. Priced at around $1,499 / £1,500 / AU$2,450, it is positioned as a premium device requiring serious investment and is recommended for users aged 13 and above.
The headset features advanced hardware designed to justify its cost, including new LCD screens with quantum dot technology, eye and face tracking, hand and gesture recognition in redesigned controllers, a full-color outward-facing camera, and a dedicated Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ processor. It also includes 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of onboard storage, and a wireless charging base, making it a versatile wearable computer for both work and entertainment.
Unlike Microsoft’s earlier HoloLens efforts, which were largely limited to developers and enterprise users, the Meta Quest Pro is immediately available for consumers at major retailers such as Best Buy, Amazon, Argos, and Currys. Many popular apps from the Quest 2 ecosystem, including Gravity Sketch and I Expect You to Die, are compatible with the Pro, and productivity applications like Immersed allow users to create multiple virtual monitors for enhanced workflow. Meta Horizons Workroom also leverages the headset’s facial recognition capabilities for more interactive virtual meetings.
A key distinction between the Quest Pro and earlier mixed reality devices is how it handles mixed reality visuals. Instead of a transparent visor like the HoloLens, which overlays a virtual display over the real world, the Quest Pro uses external cameras to capture a high-definition view of the environment and integrates VR elements dynamically. This approach improves immersion and makes the headset easier to wear by keeping the screens at a comfortable distance from the eyes.
The device’s ergonomics are another improvement. The redesigned head strap system has been reported as comfortable and secure, although the headset weighs 772 grams (1.7 lbs), heavier than the original HoloLens. The new controllers replace the Quest 2 tracking pads with visual sensors for precise finger and gesture tracking, though advanced users may wish for additional accessories like tracking gloves at this price point.
Overall, the Meta Quest Pro is designed as both a productivity platform and a next-level VR entertainment device. While the cost may limit casual adoption, professional users and companies exploring mixed reality applications can access it immediately without waiting for developer previews or enterprise programs. For Pakistani tech enthusiasts and VR developers, the Quest Pro represents a rare opportunity to experience a high-end mixed reality headset with broad app compatibility and professional-grade features.
