Qualcomm's new chipset will power Meta Quest 3

One of the major names in the chipset world, Qualcomm, will breathe life into Meta's new virtual reality glasses.

Qualcomm continues to make a distinctive mark in the smartphone chipset industry, frequently launching high-quality Systems on Chips (SoCs). Most Android OEMs prefer Qualcomm for their devices, and the company's expertise is now expanding to the XR and AR platforms. This is evident with the introduction of their Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chips. Notably, the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, with its powerful features and compatibility with multiple sensors, has been integrated into Meta’s Quest 3 VR goggles.

After more than three years, the much-anticipated upgrade to the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 has arrived. A glance at the specifications and features suggests that it has been worth the wait. This new chip provides a 2.5x boost in GPU performance and an 8x surge in AI capabilities. Remarkably, it can power two 3K displays and manage up to 10 cameras and sensors simultaneously. Despite its extensive capabilities and the intricate tasks it handles, the chip remains compact. Qualcomm has fine-tuned its power demand, ensuring efficiency. Commenting on the chipset's capabilities, Qualcomm’s VP and GM of XR emphasized the challenges related to power, latency, size, and performance. The executive highlighted the necessity of efficient energy use, stating that a maximum of 20 watts, ideally between 10 and 15, is feasible for user comfort.

Qualcomm's new chipset will power Meta Quest 3

In terms of performance, the Snapdragon XR2 is comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. It supports WiFi 7, offers a 3K resolution for the eye, and introduces full-color passthrough for an enhanced viewing experience. Its elevated power efficiency means there's no need for an external battery. The chip's enhanced AI capabilities are so robust that VR giants like Meta have incorporated it into the Meta Quest 3. Improved connectivity options ensure reduced latency and network interruptions. Additionally, users can expect faster load times, crisp game details, and an extended battery life. The Meta Quest 3, with its 4K Infinite Display, offers an impressive 1218 pixels per inch.

On another note, Qualcomm also unveiled the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 SoC, specifically designed for smart glasses.