Facebook initially introduced its standalone Santa Cruz prototype last year, but since then, there hasn't been much news about it. However, recent reports suggest that the tech giant is planning to launch a VR all-in-one headset next year, priced at just $200. According to anonymous sources cited by Bloomberg, this headset is codenamed "Pacific." It's expected to offer a user experience somewhat similar to Samsung's Gear VR, but unlike the Gear VR, the Pacific will come equipped with all the necessary internal components.
One source mentioned that the new headset will be lighter than the Gear VR and will use a wireless controller for operation. Bloomberg also reported that the Pacific is set to utilize Qualcomm's Snapdragon mobile processor, which should enhance its gaming performance compared to the Gear VR. However, the device won't include location tracking technology, although future iterations are expected to incorporate this feature.
Interestingly, the Pacific might differ significantly from the Santa Cruz prototype that debuted last year. While the Santa Cruz is essentially a wireless version of the Rift, offering all the same functionalities without requiring a PC connection, the Pacific seems to be more of a mobile VR device. This raises the question: is Facebook developing two distinct products with different processing capabilities? Could the Santa Cruz represent a high-end, desktop-level VR experience, while the Pacific targets the mobile VR market?
This move appears to be Facebook's response to Google's upcoming WorldSense, a standalone VR device featuring integrated location tracking and support for the Google Daydream mobile VR ecosystem. If true, this could reignite competition between Oculus and HTC, as HTC is also expected to unveil a WorldSense headset later this year. Currently, both companies' high-end offerings—the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive—are locked in fierce competition within the premium VR space.
The news also indicates that Facebook intends to collaborate with Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi and other partners to produce new VR headsets for the global market. Equipment bearing the Oculus brand will be available worldwide, with a Xiaomi-customized version also in the works. This version will run some Xiaomi-specific software applications. Notably, Hugo Barra, who now oversees Oculus' VR product line, previously held a key position at Xiaomi.
In terms of content, Facebook plans to brief content creators, including video designers, by October to ensure that the device's app store and compatible games are ready for simultaneous release. This suggests that Facebook is taking a comprehensive approach to launching its new VR product, aiming to create an immersive and engaging user experience right from the start.
As the VR industry continues to evolve, Facebook's moves signal its determination to stay ahead of competitors like Google and HTC. By targeting both high-end and mobile VR markets, the company is positioning itself to capture a broader audience. Whether these strategies will pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the race for dominance in the VR landscape is heating up.
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