Meta is reportedly developing a new mixed reality headset codenamed “Puffin” that aims to be significantly lighter than its predecessors, weighing in at just 110 grams. Unlike current models, Puffin will feature an external puck for processing and battery, making the headset itself lighter and more comfortable for extended use. This move reflects Meta’s strategic shift towards creating versatile headsets that appeal to both gamers and professional users seeking productivity tools.
The Puffin headset is slated for release in 2027, marking a significant evolution in Meta’s mixed reality ambitions.
Key Takeaways
- Meta is working on a lighter mixed reality headset codenamed Puffin.
- The Puffin headset is planned to be as light as 110 grams, includes an external puck for processing, and lacks controllers.
- Meta is moving towards mixed reality applications with the Puffin design.
According to new reports, Meta is planning a brand new mixed reality headset that will be dramatically lighter than the lightest Meta Quest. The news comes following the reveal that the planned Meta Quest Pro 2 has likely been canceled.
Meta currently leads the market in wireless virtual reality headsets. However, it has gradually been moving in the direction of mixed reality applications, as well. This is in keeping with Meta”s hopes that their headset line will not only attract gamers, but also businesses and individuals who want to use them as productivity tools. This new design may be the culmination of these efforts.
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As revealed by The Information, via UploadVR, Meta is allegedly working on a new headset design that”s been given the codename Puffin and is slated for release in 2027. Unlike the current bulky VR headsets, the new Puffin design is intended to be like a thick pair of glasses, coming in at about 110 grams. This is a dramatic decrease from the company”s current releases, with the Meta Quest 3 weighing 515 grams with the straps and facial interface attached. This could make using the device for long periods of time significantly more comfortable for users, as it would reduce neck and shoulder strain from carrying additional weight on one”s head.Close
How Meta”s Puffin Lowered its Weight
While being so incredibly lightweight is impressive, there”s a bit of a gimmick behind it. Allegedly, the Puffin will have a connection to an external puck that users will be able to attach to themselves or keep in a pocket. The puck will actually contain the processing hardware and battery for the device, so only the display components will have to be strapped to the user”s face. While this technically makes it a partially tethered headset, users should still be able to move around freely. However, it could reintroduce the problem of getting tangled up in wires if one moves the wrong way.
Additionally, the new Meta headset will supposedly ship without controllers, as it”s designed to be used with the Meta Quest hand controls combined with eye tracking. This may make it less of a game-focused device, though it”s also possible that the headset could still be compatible with existing controllers, like the Meta Quest Pro Touch controllers. If that were the case, it could still be a viable product for both gaming and productivity.
Of course, anything could change between now and 2027. Meta”s CTO previously said that prototypes are changed or canceled all the time, so it”s possible that this particular headset might not reach the public, or its technology could be repurposed for another Meta Quest. Only time will tell what Meta officially unveils next.
Meta Quest 3
$430 $500 Save
$70
The Meta Quest 3 is the latest and greatest mixed-reality headset that brings a host of improvements compared to the previous generation. The Quest 3 has higher resolution displays per eye with support for 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates.
It uses a more powerful 2nd generation Snapdragon XR2 processor that is capable of running games like Asgard”s Wrath 2 natively. It comes with a full-color passthrough, improved controllers, and a slimmer form factor.
Brand
Meta
Resolution (per eye)
2064×2208
Display Type
LCD
Storage
128 GB, 512 GB
Connectivity
WiFi 6E, USB Type-C
Battery Life
2-3 hours
Tracking Technology
Direct Touch hand tracking
Audio
Stereo speakers
Weight
515 grams
Refresh rate
90Hz, 120Hz (experimental)
Processor
Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
RAM
8GBExpand
$430 at Amazon
$499 at Best Buy
$499 at Walmart
$499 at Newegg
