Despite recent layoffs in its Reality Labs division, Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META) is moving forward with ambitious plans for its virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) hardware.

According to The Information, the company aims to release the Quest 4 in 2026, followed by a higher-end headset in 2027.

Quest 4 And High-End Headset Timelines

For the first time, specific timelines for these upcoming devices have surfaced. The Quest 4 is expected to come in two versions, internally referred to as "Pismo Low" and "Pismo High." This bifurcation suggests Meta's strategy to cater to both budget-conscious consumers and those seeking a premium VR experience.

The 2027 release, codenamed "La Jolla," aims to position itself as a direct competitor to the Apple Vision Pro.

AR Glasses And Design Challenges

Meta's ambitions aren't limited to VR headsets. The company is also planning to launch a pair of AR glasses featuring a genuine display.

However, The Information's report indicates that these glasses might face significant design hurdles. Unlike the lightweight Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, the new AR glasses are expected to weigh around 70 grams and have a "bulky design" due to the integrated display.

This design challenge is a familiar one in the AR industry. Achieving a balance between wearability, battery life, and display performance remains a tough nut to crack. The report suggests that due to their bulkiness, these glasses may not carry the Ray-Ban branding, as Ray-Ban's parent company, EssilorLuxottica, reportedly disapproves of the design.

Many companies have faced similar challenges in miniaturizing displays to create comfortable, stylish, and functional AR glasses. This difficulty has often been a significant barrier to widespread consumer adoption.

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