In an interesting move, setting the gaming world ablaze, the two tech giants, Microsoft and Meta, announced their much-awaited collaboration. They have joined forces to bring a limited-edition Xbox-themed VR headset to give gamers the experience of a lifetime. Though it is not the native VR headset for Xbox—which is a disappointment—it will allow users to stream their favorite Xbox hits in VR.
What’s the product exactly?
This collaborative product is not a headset made for Xbox consoles but a customized version of the Meta Quest VR headset that is designed in the colors of Xbox. The headset comes with controllers and a Game Pass subscription that will allow them access to the Xbox cloud system. With these tools at their disposal, gamers can stream their favorite Xbox hits on a big screen in virtual reality.
While this is some good news, many gamers might be disappointed as it is not what they had expected it to be. This entire experience will be on the Quest ecosystem, leveraging the cloud technology to integrate the Xbox titles to provide the experience. This standalone device does not provide VR integration to Xbox consoles—this is something the gamers will have to wait for a little longer.
Why this collaboration and what it means for VR enthusiasts?
This collaboration in the broader sense is beneficial to both the companies. Microsoft enters the VR market without having to spend heavily on developing a new device from scratch; Meta, on the other hand, is leveraging the popularity of Xbox, which is synonymous with high-quality gaming.
What about gamers?
Gamers get to fuel their curiosity by experiencing the Xbox titles in the Quest ecosystem. This not only brings a fresh experience but also opens doors to newer possibilities and gives a way to explore the world of VR in much more depth than before.
What next?
Microsoft has always been cautious with what they come up with. With their Kinect Glasses and the more recent HoloLens being discontinued without bringing it to the consumers, it can be said that Microsoft has explored the immersive tech space but without any commitments.
While there is no confirmation on whether they will come up with a VR headset native to Xbox consoles or not, we can wait and see how this limited edition, collaborative piece performs in the market.
