Meta Quest has unveiled a bunch of new features in its v57 software update for Meta Quest Pro and Meta Quest 2 headsets. This update introduces an array of enhancements, including expanded avatar customization options, an unsend message feature, group links, free-form locomotion in Horizon Home, and a rebranded Explore feed.
Additionally, improvements have been made in video recording, multitasking, and various other areas.
Meta Quest Adds New Horizon Home
One notable addition is the expanded locomotion feature in Horizon Home. It allows users to freely teleport within their Home environment, offering a navigation method similar to many VR applications. Users can utilize controller thumbsticks or hand gestures to navigate their surroundings.
On the other hand, the introduction of the Meta Horizon group links which simplifies the process of inviting friends to join a group. Users can generate a link to their group, which can be shared within VR or across various messaging platforms.
Another significant enhancement is the ability to invite a Meta Horizon group to different experiences, streamlining the process of friends meeting up in VR.
These invitations are now visible in the group chat, making coordination even more straightforward. Furthermore, users can now unsend image messages in both VR and the Meta Quest mobile app, providing an extra layer of control over communications.
Several other valuable additions have been made, including the updates on the hand tracking tutorial, which offers comprehensive guidance in using hands as controllers in VR and Direct Touch. This tutorial can be found in the Guide app.
A new contact list feature automatically opens when users power on their Meta Quest headset, facilitating easy communication and meetups with friends, regardless of ongoing VR activities. The contact list can easily be reopened from the People tab if the contact list is closed.
Video recording capabilities have also seen improvements, allowing users to set a default option for including or excluding microphone audio during video recording.
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New Horizon Feed of Meta Quest
The Horizon Feed, a replacement for the Explore feature, serves as the landing surface in VR where users can discover apps, entertainment, and community content. It provides a convenient hub for exploring new experiences within the VR environment.
Multitasking capabilities have also been enhanced. Users can now use multiple apps simultaneously, configuring them in a near and far layout. It allows for interaction using hands or controllers, providing a more versatile user experience.
Avatar customization also received an update, enabling users to customize the color of their avatar's hair, eyebrows, and more. It can be done using the real-time avatar editor mirror in select Home Environments.
The update also addresses mixed reality and boundary settings. Some apps with mixed reality experiences no longer trigger a boundary warning, allowing users to enjoy the experience without interruption.
However, Meta is discontinuing a casting feature from the Meta Quest mobile app on iPhones. This feature allowed users to simultaneously capture their VR experience and real-life surroundings using the phone camera.
These features and improvements are set to be gradually rolled out beginning the week of September 11. The company anticipates further updates and enhancements to be revealed at its Connect event later this month.
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