Anticipated Features and Details for Meta's Upcoming VR Devices, Quest 4 and Quest 4S, Successors to the Quest 3
Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook, has announced its plans to release two new virtual reality (VR) headsets in 2026: the high-end Quest 4 and the budget-friendly Quest 4S.
The Quest 4 and Quest 4S are expected to share similar hardware, including the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 3 chipset, RAM, and cameras. This upgrade promises a significant performance boost over the Gen 2, potentially paving the way for more immersive VR experiences.
One of the most intriguing features of the Quest 4 is its potential support for 5G connectivity. This could enable cloud-first content with graphically intensive games that the current Snapdragon XR2 Gen 3 might struggle to handle.
Another exciting development is the use of wearable electromyography (EMG) bands. These devices can interpret nervous system signals from your brain to your hand, enhancing gesture controls within VR. The EMG band may also be used as a controller for the next Meta Quest headset.
The Quest 4 may also include built-in IR illuminators for low-light gaming, a dedicated mixed-reality button, and a display resolution boost over the Quest 3. However, it's worth noting that the Quest 4 and Quest 4S may not use OLED technology, which could potentially lead to poor contrast in darker games.
The Quest 4 and Quest 4S are also expected to retain some cost-cutting measures, such as a cloth headstrap and shorter battery life, to keep them affordable.
Meta has been investing heavily in its Reality Labs division, spending $60 billion to date. This investment could lead to the incorporation of new technology like varifocal or Holocake lenses into consumer devices. However, it remains to be seen if these features will be included in the Quest 4 and Quest 4S due to cost and technological limitations.
The Quest 3S was launched in October 2025, and Meta has reportedly canceled several Quest Pro 2 and Quest 4 prototypes. The company is also focusing on smart glasses, with plans to revamp its AI tools on its Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Meta is also working on new eye-tracking capabilities for future headsets, including the ability to unlock your headset with your eyes. The Quest 4 may feature eye tracking, although it's likely that the Quest 4S will not due to cost considerations.
In addition, Meta is reportedly working on a partnership with US-based ISPs/MNOs for cloud gaming on the Quest 4. The company has also announced a 20% budget cut for its Reality Labs division by 2026.
Notable figures in the tech industry have already had a chance to try out prototypes of the Quest 4. James Cameron, the renowned filmmaker, was reportedly impressed with its capabilities.
As we move towards 2026, the Quest 4 and Quest 4S are shaping up to be the next big step in virtual reality technology. They may even mark a shift towards more mixed reality experiences, blurring the lines between the virtual and real worlds. Stay tuned for more updates as Meta continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of VR.
