Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has recently released a new software update for its Quest 3 VR headset, offering users the ability to extend their battery life by sacrificing graphics quality. This update, known as the Battery Saver mode, aims to give users more control over their device’s power usage.
In addition to the Battery Saver mode, the v59 software update also comes with several other new features and improvements. One notable addition is the ability for VR streamers to track and interact with YouTube Live Chat directly from their headsets. This means that streamers no longer have to interrupt their VR experience to acknowledge their audience and can stay fully engaged in their content creation.
Furthermore, the update introduces more reactions and stickers in the chat feature, allowing users to express themselves more creatively. It also adds legs to the avatars in Horizon Home, enhancing the overall virtual reality experience. Additionally, the Activities tab has been enhanced to make it easier for users to find friend recommendations and join in on multiplayer games.
With regards to battery performance, it is unclear how much improvement the Battery Saver mode brings. However, this feature can be beneficial for users who do not want to invest in a $130 battery strap or were not satisfied with the additional battery life it provided. Comparatively, other portable devices like the Steam Deck offer more granular power settings, such as per-game settings and frame rate limits, providing users with even greater control over their device’s performance.
Activating the Battery Saver mode is a simple process. Users can access it by going to the System Settings and selecting the Power option. This allows them to optimize their Quest 3’s battery life according to their needs and preferences.
The extended battery life offered by the Battery Saver mode is particularly useful for VR streamers who spend a significant amount of time online using the Meta Quest 3 headset. Streamers can now access an early access feature that allows them to view and interact with YouTube Live Chat without leaving their VR experience. This feature will initially be available to YouTube creators who sign up through an early access interest form.
For users who prefer socializing with friends in VR, the new Activities tab provides a convenient way to join multiplayer games and apps. It also allows users to view and join active group calls without any hassle. Moreover, the chat experience has been enhanced with the addition of avatar stickers, reactions, and the ability to send images in supported regions.
Meta has also introduced an updated parental controls feature called Family Center. This feature, accessible through the Meta Quest mobile app, enables parents to manage daily time limits for their children and enforce break periods, ensuring a healthy balance between virtual and real-world activities.
These new features and improvements are part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience and provide more customization options for Quest 3 users. The v59 software update is currently being rolled out, and users can expect to see these changes in their devices soon.