Source: Tom’s Guide
Meta appears to be quietly testing a prototype VR headset with a much wider field of view (FOV) than anything we’ve seen in its existing Quest lineup. This new development was hinted at through an image posted by Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, on Instagram. Bosworth, who has long been a key figure in the company’s Reality Labs division, is often seen exploring Meta’s cutting-edge VR tech, and his latest post has sparked interest in what could be the next leap in VR headsets.
Meta is known for its continuous cycle of testing and experimentation, constantly working behind the scenes to improve its hardware. In fact, a previous teaser showed a glimpse of the Meta Quest 3S long before its official announcement, simply by spotting the device on a shelf behind Bosworth in an earlier post. This time, however, the focus is on the potential for a wider FOV, something that could significantly enhance the immersive experience of virtual reality.
In the Instagram post, keen-eyed viewers quickly noticed something unusual about the headset Bosworth was examining. Unlike the typical Quest design that rests comfortably in front of the face, this prototype seems to wrap around the sides of the face. The lenses are also angled, a design choice that could help broaden the wearer’s field of view. This prototype is clearly in its early stages, still featuring wires and bulky attachments, but it gives a fascinating glimpse into what Meta may be cooking up for its next-generation VR.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just a prototype. Meta’s Reality Labs often tests multiple ideas, many of which never see the light of day as consumer products. As Bosworth himself has stated, Meta is constantly developing prototypes, but only a fraction make it past the testing phase.
For VR enthusiasts, a wider FOV is a game-changer. Most current VR headsets, including Meta’s Quest line, offer a field of view that, while immersive, can feel somewhat restricted. Widening that scope would make virtual environments feel even more real and all-encompassing, enhancing everything from gaming experiences to productivity tasks in virtual workspaces.
That said, Meta hasn’t confirmed any official plans to launch a headset with this feature. While the Instagram post is certainly intriguing, it’s worth noting that the company is still focusing on the newly released Quest 3S. According to reports, Meta has been cautious with its future roadmap after canceling its “La Jolla” project, which was originally intended to rival Apple’s Vision Pro.
Meta is a company known for pushing boundaries and testing innovative ideas, even if they don’t always come to market. While this wider FOV prototype has captured attention, there’s no guarantee it will ever be released. As Bosworth hinted, Meta has multiple stages of development before a product reaches store shelves, and some products get shelved indefinitely.
For now, it’s safe to assume that Meta is focused on making the Quest 3S a success, and there’s no official word on a Meta Quest 4 or any other follow-up. If this wider FOV headset makes it through all the necessary development phases, it could be years before we see it become a reality.
But one thing is clear: Meta is continuously exploring new frontiers in VR, and a wider field of view could be one of the innovations that further elevates the virtual reality experience in the future.
