SAN FRANCISCO – The Quest 3S Xbox Edition, a highly anticipated release from Meta, has officially sold out on Meta’s website just three days after its launch. This limited-edition device, priced at $400, was met with overwhelming demand, reflecting the growing interest in VR gaming experiences.
Immediate Impact
While Meta.com lists the device as unavailable, U.S. retailer Best Buy still offers the Quest 3S Xbox Edition for purchase. However, customers are facing an unusual delivery or pickup window starting July 10. In the UK, some locations still have same-day pickup available, underscoring regional differences in supply and demand.
Key Details Emerge
The Quest 3S Xbox Edition comes bundled with an Xbox controller, marking a significant evolution from previous models like the Oculus Rift and Oculus Quest. Despite its recent release, the headset has already become a collector’s item, as evidenced by eBay listings showing sales ranging from $300 to $600.
eBay sales for the Xbox edition range from $300 to $600, highlighting its collector’s appeal.
Industry Response
Meta has positioned the Quest 3S as a bridge for gamers wanting to integrate Xbox experiences into their VR gameplay. According to VR analyst David Heaney, the inclusion of the same lens technology as the 2018 Oculus Go signifies both a nod to the past and a step towards future innovations.
Expert Analysis
Heaney noted on the VR Download broadcast that while the Quest 3S represents a refined vision, it might also symbolize the end of an era for certain VR technologies. “The headset’s design and tech choices reflect a culmination of Meta’s VR journey so far,” he commented.
Background Context
This development comes as Meta prepares to introduce a new line of Horizon OS headsets. These upcoming devices are expected to leverage Meta’s longstanding research innovations, aiming to project eyewear running the company’s software onto a broader audience in the coming decades.
What Comes Next
As the VR market continues to evolve, the Quest 3S Xbox Edition’s rapid sell-out highlights the growing consumer appetite for immersive gaming experiences. With Meta’s Horizon OS headsets on the horizon, the industry is poised for further transformation.
The timing of this release is particularly significant as it aligns with Meta’s strategic expansion into the VR gaming sector, setting the stage for future advancements and broader adoption of VR technologies.
As consumers eagerly await the next wave of VR innovations, Meta’s ability to meet demand and deliver cutting-edge experiences will be crucial in maintaining its leadership in the competitive VR landscape.
