Today, VRChat, in a developer update, highlighted how its popular cross-platform Metaverse/immersive service platform VRChat is dropping support for the original Quest VR headset model.
VRChat is cancelling support for the legacy device on June 30, 2023, in preparation for Meta dropping support for the device’s SDK, which could make the application unstable.
The closing of the original Quest device means that VRChat cannot securely facilitate an optimised platform or provide customer assistance.
In its update, the VRChat team also added that users can “continue to use Quest 1 with Quest Link, Virtual Desktop, ALVR, or other tethering methods.” However, the firm notes that PCVR streaming applications for the original Quest could also face optimisation issues.
The news comes after the Meta Quest also lost AltSpace VR, another Metaverse platform which owners Microsoft shut down earlier this year – diverting its resources to Mesh.
Meta Drops Support for Original Quest Model
On March 5, 2023, Meta officially announced its halting of support for the Quest 1 device to focus on new Meta Quest 2 and Pro variants. The news also came as rumours of a consumer-grade Quest 3 headset.
In its announcement, Meta noted that as the firm “look[s] to the future”, it remains “committed to supporting the community” of Quest 1 users. The Menlo Park-based firm said it would continue supporting the headset with a few changes.
Moreover, the announcement means that Horizon – Meta’s Metaverse platform – loses several users. The move terminated Meta Quest 1 user access to Horizon on March 5, 2023, including stopping features such as creating parties, inviting others to a Home immersive environment, and visiting someone else’s Home.
Meta will continue to support the original Meta Quest device through critical bug fixes and security patches until 2024. Moreover, users can still access their bought VR applications.
Meta’s Quest 2 and Pro Portfolio
The move also highlights how Meta is attempting to divert its resources and fans towards its more recent Quest 2 and Pro portfolio.
The Meta Quest Pro is an MR headset the Menlo Park-based firm released in October 2022. With its Pro device, Meta is attempting to change the future of work with several features that make it a high-end device, including a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ processor, pancake optics, hand/face/eye-tracking, stylus Quest Pro controllers, TruTouch haptics, 75 percent greater contrast than Quest 2, and a movement SDK to support full-motion avatars.
The Meta Quest Pro leverages the Presence Platform to display high-quality graphics overlaid in a real-world environment, allowing users to jump between MR and VR applications and experiences seamlessly. Meta is currently pricing the device at £1,499.
The Meta Quest 2 is still an excellent choice for a more affordable option. Released in October 2020, the device is still one of the most popular VR headsets.
The Quest 2 costs $399, and it offers several features, including a high-resolution display, a comfortable design, and a wide range of games and immersive services. Moreover, the device is a leading choice for developers of enterprise-grade immersive applications.
