Meta files patent to rival Apple's Vision Pro with advanced AR/VR tech. All about it

Meta, the company behind the popular Quest VR headsets, is reportedly advancing its efforts in the augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) arenas.

According to PatentlyApple, Meta has recently filed a patent for a feature that may mirror a notable aspect of Apple's Vision Pro headset, which launched in June 2023 and became available for purchase earlier this year.

The patent, titled "Embedded Sensors in Immersive Reality Headset to Enable Social Presence," hints that Meta may either be revamping its existing Quest headset or developing a new model with this sophisticated technology. Unlike Apple's EyeSight feature, Meta’s proposed technology could also include health sensors integrated into the face interface, potentially offering additional benefits to users.

Apple’s EyeSight feature, celebrated for its innovation, lets users remain aware of their surroundings while using virtual environments. It creates a transparent effect when someone approaches the wearer, allowing the user to see the person and showing their eyes. EyeSight also provides visual indicators to bystanders about the user’s focus and activities, enhancing interaction and communication.

Though EyeSight might appear as a minor enhancement, it significantly improves user experience by facilitating better social interaction and connectivity. Meta’s interest in integrating a similar feature into its AR/VR headsets suggests a recognition of the Vision Pro's impact and a desire to offer comparable functionalities.

Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has previously praised the Quest 3 for its comfort and performance relative to the Apple Vision Pro. This patent filing indicates that Meta acknowledges the value of Apple's approach and is keen to incorporate similar advancements. While specifics about Meta's upcoming headset remain unclear, this move highlights the competitive and rapidly advancing AR/VR technology landscape.

Source - https://www.livemint.com/technology/tech-news/meta-files-patent-to-rival-apples-vision-pro-with-advanced-ar-vr-tech-all-about-it-11721651364677.html