According to insiders, Meta has discontinued a high-end mixed reality headset that was intended to rival the Apple Vision Pro.
The Information’s contacts stated that Meta’s Reality Labs received orders to stop developing “La Jolla,” a high-end headset scheduled for release in 2027.
It was intended to employ extremely high-resolution micro OLED panels, similar to those in the Vision Pro, and be significantly more powerful than the Quest 3. Meta apparently had trouble bringing the price down from its initial $1,000 target. Apple’s $3,499 starting pricing is believed to be largely the result of their display technology.
Meta has not formally acknowledged the cancellation of the headset. But according to business technical leader Andrew “Boz” Bosworth, the company always has “many prototypes in development,” and some of them end up getting canceled. The “true picture” of these decisions isn’t shown in reports, he continued.
The Quest 3 is actively supported by the firm, which remains dedicated to mixed reality gear. There are rumors of a Meta Quest 4 for late 2025 or early 2026, and the Quest 3S may take the place of the Quest 2 as the less expensive model. On September 25, Meta is hosting its yearly Connect event, when they may also introduce augmented reality spectacles.
With the Quest Pro from 2022, Meta made an initial attempt to enter the high-end headset market. Its prospects were harmed by its $1,500 price tag, which was deemed excessive at the time, as well as its lackluster performance gains. In March 2023, the social media behemoth reduced the Pro’s price to $1,000. In July of the same year, rumors circulated claiming that Meta had canceled a direct sequel and ceased manufacturing.
Perhaps the Vision Pro had some bearing. Sales are thought to be restricted by its bulky build, exorbitant pricing, and limited app selection. Entering a potentially unresponsive market would be Meta.
But Apple is also rumored to be working on a less expensive Vision headset for 2025. If something else proves to be more successful, Meta might be obliged to offer a replacement.
