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Meta has announced the budget-friendly Quest 3S VR headset at its annual Connect keynote. Rumors have been swirling for months that the company was working on a cheaper follow-up to the impressive Quest 3, and now its here and priced at $300. This is pretty dang close to the original Quest 3, which costs $500. The latest headset uses the same Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen2 processor and boasts 8GB of RAM, so it can easily handle Quest 3 exclusives like the forthcoming Batman: Arkham Shadow. It offers the same full-color passthrough for mixed reality apps and games and ships with the same controllers as last years model. The refresh rate also hovers between 90Hz and 120Hz. Meta The external sensors/cameras also seem nearly identical to the standard Quest 3. There are two RGB cameras to create the stereoscopic color passthrough and four VGA cameras for hand tracking and controller tracking. These also help determine user movements and position in 3D space. Finally, there are two flood LEDs for illumination. So whats the catch? Meta has to make up for that lost $200 somehow. First of all, there are no pancake lenses and theres no 4K content. These look to be the same Fresnel lenses as found with the Meta Quest 2, with a resolution of 1832 x 1920 per eye and 20 PPD (pixels per degree.) The field of view is also slightly reduced when compared to the regular Quest 3 headset. The storage gets a major hit. The base model comes with 128GB, though theres a 256GB model available for $400. Meta has lowered the price of the 512GB Quest 3 to $500, from $650, so the entry-level 3S features around a quarter of the storage. On the plus side, the battery life is actually a bit better with the Quest 3S when compared to the Quest 3. Meta says it should get around 2.5 hours of use per charge, compared to 2.2 hours with the Quest 3. Theres also a nice little bonus for the holiday season. Customers who orders any Quest 3 or 3S model will get a free digital copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow when its released this October. The company did the same thing with the criminally underrated Asgards Wrath 2 last year. The promotion goes until April. The Quest 3S works with most Quest 3 accessories, which is good news because it also ships with the standard, and totally uncomfortable, headstrap. That Elite Strap is a wise investment, especially the one with the battery. Preorders are open right now and theres a shipping date of October 15. With the pending release of the Quest 3S, Metas phasing out the Quest 2 and the Quest Pro. The Zuck gives and the Zuck takes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ar-vr/meta-reveals-the-budget-friendly-quest-3s-vr-headset-171843107.html?src=rss
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Meta announced its new mixed reality headset during the 2024 Meta Connect keynote on Wednesday. The Meta Quest 3S will start at $300 and represents a more affordable, yet higher-specced option between the $500 Quest 3 from last year and 2020's (soon to be discontinued) Quest 2. The new model has the same processor as the Quest 3, as well as the same full-color external cameras to enable mixed reality features. The per-eye resolution matches that of the Quest 2, instead of the 4K pixel dimensions of the Quest 3. The 3S is also equipped with Fresnel lenses like the second model the slimmer pancake lenses are reserved for the pricier set. Along with the new device, Meta also announced a price change for the existing Meta Quest 3; It now comes in just one storage capacity, 512GB, but that configuration goes for $500 instead of $650. The Meta Quest 3 is our current pick for the best VR headset overall, so it'll be interesting to see whether the Meta Quest 3S improves upon the previous generation's winning formula of relative affordability combined with useful mixed reality, realistic VR immersion and support for a healthy library of games. Engadget's Devindra Hardawar gave the both the Quest 3 and Quest 2 positive reviews upon their debuts and our verdict on the Quest 3S will come soon, once we've had a chance to test the new set. But if you can't wait until then, here's a quick rundown of how the specs of Meta's three consumer-grade VR headsets compare side by side (while omitting the overly expensive yet underwhelming Quest Pro, which will also go the way of Quest 2 once current inventory runs out). Pre-orders for the Meta Quest 3S open on September 25 and the headset will hits shelves October 15. Meta Quest 2 Meta Quest 3 Meta Quest 3S Price (MSRP) $200 128GB $300 256GB $500 512GB $300 128GB $400 256GB Release date Octover 12, 2020 October 10, 2023 October 15, 2024 Weight 503 grams 515 grams 514 grams Processor Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 Snapdragon XR2 Gen2 RAM 6GB 8GB 8GB Storage 128GB or 256GB 512GB 128GB or 256GB Per-eye resolution 1832 x 1920 pixels 2064 x 2208 pixels 1832 x 1920 pixels Refresh rate 60Hz, 72Hz, 90Hz 72Hz, 80Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz 90Hz, 120Hz Field of view 96 degrees horizontal 90 degrees vertical 110 degrees horizontal 96 degrees vertical 96 degrees horizontal 90 degrees vertical Included controllers Meta Quest 2 Touch Meta Quest Touch Plus Meta Quest Touch Plus Mixed reality cameras 2 x B&W cameras 2 x 4 MP RGB cameras 2 x 4 MP RBG cameras External tracking sensors 2 x B&W cameras 4 x IR cameras 4 x VGA cameras Eye tracking None None None Battery life 2 hours average 2.2 hours average 2.5 hours average Connectivity Wi-Fi 6 Wi-Fi 6E not specified Catch up on all the news from Meta Connect 2024!This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ar-vr/the-meta-quest-3s-vs-meta-quest-2-and-meta-quest-3-finding-a-happy-medium-171820494.html?src=rss
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Googles Pixel Buds series has always been a worthy companion for its Pixel phones. The company only lacks a set of over-ear headphones to offer similar options to what Apple provides for iPhone users. Of course, Google got a later start than its rival, but like its Silicon Valley counterpart, the company has designed its earbuds to work best with its own devices. Youll need both a phone and earbuds from Google to get the best features. Thats unlikely to change anytime soon. Like Apple, Google is now on version 2.0 of its Pro-series earbuds. The first model debuted in 2022, and delivered active noise cancellation (ANC) for the first time on a set of Pixel Buds. There were notable features missing at launch, like spatial audio, so the inaugural set of Pixel Buds Pro werent yet at their full potential. With the Pixel Buds Pro 2 ($229), Google has its ducks in a row, shipping its new flagship earbuds with a powerful Tensor chip for the first time and providing a hands-free conduit to Gemini AI. Theres a new design, longer battery life and updated acoustics, but once again, the company is asking you to pay more than the previous version for all of the new features. Design The first thing that struck me about the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is how small they are. While a 27 percent size reduction doesnt sound like a huge drop, it certainly is here. This model is tiny compared to the previous one, and Google shaved 1.5 grams off of the overall weight as well. The result is a much smaller earbud that sits more comfortably and securely in your ear. Google redesigned the overall shape here, too. To help trim down the overall size, the IP54-rated Pixel Buds Pro 2 are now more compact rather than elongated like their predecessors. Like many audio companies, Google says it analyzed millions of ear scans to arrive at this new shape. Additionally, the company conducted real-life wear tests to make sure the earbuds wouldnt fall out easily. To keep the buds in place, Google opted for a twist-to-adjust stabilizer on the back. Everyones ears are different, and on mine, I dont feel like this adds any extra security. As far as I can tell, it doesnt tuck into the curves of my ears when I twist to lock in as Google suggests. But, once I found the best ear tip size for me, a secure fit wasnt an issue as the Pixel Buds Pro 2 stayed in place just fine. Whats more, the tiny footprint kept things comfy for long wear sessions, which hasnt always been the case for Googles earbuds. Theres still a robust suite of onboard controls on the Pixel Buds Pro 2, but the smaller-sized earbuds will require some adjustments to your taps. Since the buds arent as big, the touch panel offers less real estate. This means youll need to be more precise with your fingers, which took some time for me to master. If theres an upside to larger earbuds, its that you dont have to be as accurate with your control inputs to get them to register. Gemini AI and Tensor power Billy Steele for Engadget The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are Googles first earbuds with a Tensor chip. Apple has always been keen to discuss the audio processor inside AirPods by name, but this is the first time I can remember Google doing the same. Thanks to the Tensor A1, the company says it can provide ultra-low latency audio processing, including multi-path signal handling. Google says it created a highway lane for music so that its unbothered by the processing required for ANC. The chips efficiency also allowed the company to increase battery life (slightly) despite the overall reduction in earbud size. Google is hyping the Pixel Buds Pro 2 as the first earbuds to work with Gemini AI. But, since Gemini has replaced Google Assistant on the Pixel 9, thats a bit like saying theyre built for Assistant. Clearly, all Pixel Buds share that ability, so youll want to look past the marketing-speak. Its true that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 work with Gemini for hands-free help with more complex tasks than Assistant and Gemini Live is here for more conversational interactions. Of course, you dont need the earbuds to use any of this, as you can just use a Pixel 9 on its own. Tensor and Gemini arent the only notable features on the Pixel Buds Pro 2. Youll also get Conversation Detection, Hearing Wellness tracking, multipoint Bluetooth and the ability to customize the long press option (only two choices there though). You can also automatically switch between devices linked to your Google account, which wont be tremendously convenient if you prefer Pixel phones and MacBook Pros. Inside the Pixel Buds app, which is also accessible from the Bluetooth settings menu, youll see battery levels and get ANC controls if you need to change those from your phone. Pixel Buds Pro 2 sound quality Overall sound quality on the original Pixel Buds Pro was an improvement over the Pixel Buds (2020) and the A-Series, both of which lacked sufficient low-end tone. Theres plenty of bass on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 when a song demands it, but its not constant or overbearing. Google says it redesigned the entire audio system to overhaul the acoustics and drivers for maximum efficiency. Its goal was to pass the audio signal to your ear as cleanly as possible so you get accurate, immersive sound without having to make further adjustments. Im not sure the audio is a huge leap over the Pixel Buds Pro, but there is a noticeable improvement. That bassperformance thumps when a Deftones alt-metal track or Kaytranadas electronic hip-hop beats demand it. Theres not as much nuance to the low-end tone as on the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, which are my current pick for best overall sound quality. Theres enough to get the job done though, so the Pixel Buds Pro 2 remains a significant sonic improvement over Googles more affordable earbud models, especially when you factor in the crisp highs and adequate mid-range on display here. The synth-heavy tracks on Justices Hyperdrama, for example, envelope you with gritty, textured riffs and driving beats. If you do feel the need to make audio adjustments, Google offers a full 5-band EQ in the Pixel Buds settings. There are also five presets, but none of those sound great. In fact, I think they all make things worse. Theres also the ability to tweak the volume balance, if you need the volume to be louder in one ear than the other. Unlike the Pixel Buds Pro, this model is shipping with Spatial Audio ready to be put to work. However, there are some big caveats here. First, the immersive sound requires a Pixel 6 and up, and it doesnt work with A-Series devices. Whats more, Spatial Audio is only available on compatible video apps. You wont be able to use it for music. And when it comes to Netflix, the streaming service requires that you also turn on head tracking. Google shouldve made things straightforward here, but instead, its a mess. Its a solid addition if it works when you want it, but there will certainly be times when thats not the case. ANC performance Billy Steele for Engadget For the ANC setup on the Pixel Buds Pro 2, Google says it cancels twice as much noise thanks to its so-called Silent Seal 2.0 system. The company explains that it does this by blocking a wider variety of sounds than it did on the previous model, including higher frequency distractions. Its true that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 perform well with low-to-mid-range noise, blocking the constant roar of a car interior (passenger seat, obviously), loud fans and more. Where the Pixel Buds Pro 2 still struggle is with things like human voices. To be fair, lots of earbuds and headphones stumble trying to block out a noisy neighbor. Unless youve got music or a podcast going, youll be able to hear nearby conversations, albeit moderately muffled. Call quality For calls, Google once again employs AI to make things sound better. And that applies to both ends of the call. The company says its Clear Calling feature has been improved, further reducing background noise on your end and any would-be distractions near the person youre talking to when the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are paired with a compatible Pixel phone. The earbuds do a good job of blocking background noise on their own. Even when you record a voice note or do some other activity that doesnt use Clear Calling, the AI-powered system reduces the roar to where you can barely hear it. Whats more, Clear Calling doesnt just apply to phone calls, it works with apps like Google Meet and some third-party software (over Wi-Fi). And while I dont think the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will make you sound pristine, the heavy lifting they do (with the aid of a Pixel phone) to keep you clear of background commotion is commendable. Battery life on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 Google promises up to eight hours of battery life on a charge with ANC enabled on the Pixel Buds Pro 2. When you factor in the case and the buds, youre looking at up to 30 hours of noise-canceling use. During my tests, I didnt keep ANC on the entire time, but I also used transparency mode during calls and times I needed to listen out for my kids or the doorbell. I got just over eight hours with the volume at around 50-75 percent, which varied depending whether I was streaming from my Pixel 9 or MacBook Pro. The IPX4-rated Pixel Buds Pro 2 case supports both wired and wireless charging, so youve got an alternate option there. Whats more, a 15-minute rest in the case will give the earbuds enough juice to last for up to three hours. The competition Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the best-sounding and most comfortable option in Googles earbud lineup. This makes them the best choice if youre into all of the integrations for Pixel phone owners. If you can live without all of that stuff, youll find better sound quality and more advanced features elsewhere. Sonys WF-1000XM5 is my current top pick, thanks to the fit, audio performance, ANC quality and other tools the company offers. Youll get Speak-to-Chat automatic pausing for short convos and DSEE Extreme upscaling to recover detail thats typically lost to Bluetooth compression. Theres also the ability to automate sound settings based on activity or location. If pure sound performance is what youre after, Sennheisers Momentum True Wireless 4 is the best bet. These earbuds dont have the robust feature set that Sony has amassed, but the audio quality is the best in my opinion. The company also recently added Auracast support and a Find Headphones feature thats akin to Googles Find My Device. Wrap-up Like the Pixel Buds Pro were in 2022, the second version of Googles pricier earbuds are the best the company has to offer. Theyre more expensive than their predecessor, but theyre also more powerful, more comfortable and last longer. There are some confusing caveats with Spatial Audio and the onboard controls may take some getting used to, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are an improvement in the places where it really matters. The sam truth remains as it did two years ago though: these are earbuds built for Pixel phone die-hards, so if youre not one of those, you can find better audio performance and expanded features elsewhere. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/pixel-buds-pro-2-review-tiny-earbuds-with-big-sound-and-a-direct-line-to-gemini-170016328.html?src=rss
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