With Sony’s PSVR2 launching worldwide, Meta had to make its own VR-related announcement today. It’s not as exciting as the new VR headsets, but it adds some highly desirable features to the Meta Quest line of headsets. Not exactly what I expected. (opens in new tab)In some ways, the Meta headset’s software update is actually much bigger news than Sony’s flashy new VR headset.
After being battered by unruly headsets, Meta is rolling out new headsets v50 update (opens in new tab) To Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest Pro (opens in new tab) Headsets over the next few weeks. The v50 update includes several different features, but one of the most interesting features is the ability to use your hands instead of controllers using a feature called Direct Touch.
Hand tracking is nothing new to Meta. In fact, it’s been around for several years. (opens in new tab)However, it is quite limited. Enabling the currently experimental Direct Touch setting offers his UI with buttons that are just a finger tap away. Gestures are also included to make navigating menus faster and more intuitive.You can also try this hand tracking demo game First Hand (opens in new tab)was developed to showcase new technology.
I would love to try it once the update is applied to my headset. My biggest curiosity other than how well it works is how natural it is to use, especially when swapping out for a controller to play games. may integrate hand-tracking into VR games, but for now the utility appears to be mostly just the Quest 2’s UI.
Another feature is the ability to multitask 2D apps in games. Pro users have had this feature, but it’s finally coming to Quest 2 with the v50 update. Basically you can run simple apps while the game is running. Useful for checking something and returning to the game, or opening something like a wiki to switch back and forth. Solve puzzles in Myst VR (opens in new tab) It just got a whole lot easier.
The last update was a lot less flashy, but it’s certainly appreciated. Increased the speed at which controllers can wake up and track themselves. I’ve personally never bothered with short wait times, but for those who want to get into the game as quickly as possible, this should clear up any frustration. Or it could help fulfill Zack’s dream of a better high-five in the Metaverse. (opens in new tab).
