Meta scraps plans for premium mixed-reality headset

Reality Labs division to drop Vision Pro competitor

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Image: Apple

Meta Platforms has scrapped plans for its high-end mixed-reality headset, internally codenamed La Jolla, which was scheduled for release in 2027. The company instructed employees of its Reality Labs division to halt work on the device after a product review meeting, according to two Meta employees.

The cancelled headset would feature ultra-high-resolution screens known as micro OLEDs, similar to those used in Apple’s Vision Pro (pictured). With Apple’s entry into the virtual and mixed reality market last year, the segment received renewed attention. However, Apple’s Vision Pro has struggled to sell because of its hefty $3,500 price tag.

Meta’s Reality Labs division, responsible for the development and marketing of its Quest line of headsets, has suffered significant losses. Nevertheless, Meta remains optimistic about the future of augmented and virtual reality technologies. The existing Quest line consists of the Quest 2, priced at $200, and the Quest 3, priced at $500.

Earlier, the company stopped production of its most expensive headset, the Quest Pro, costing $999, in 2023 due to weak sales and poor reviews. Meta has not commented on the cancellation of the La Jolla headset, and a spokesperson did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Meta’s decision to cancel the La Jolla headset is another setback for its Reality Labs division, which is struggling to gain a foothold in the virtual and mixed reality market. Nevertheless, the company continues to invest in these technologies and believes they have significant potential for future growth.

Read More: Meta Mixed Reality virtual reality VR