New Meta Quest Feature Could Make Using Keyboards Much Easier

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New Meta Quest Feature Could Make Using Keyboards Much Easier

Key Takeaways

  • Meta Quest PTC v71 improves keyboard compatibility with real-time passthrough view of the user’s real keyboard.
  • The new feature allows the headset to track any keyboard in a home, giving flexibility for typing on various keyboards.
  • The functionality is only available via the PTC for testing and may not become a full-fledged feature, pending user feedback.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of virtual reality (VR) experience under my belt, I must say that the latest Meta Quest PTC v71 update has piqued my interest. The improved keyboard compatibility feature is a game-changer for me, especially considering my collection of vintage keyboards from various eras.

Meta Quest’s recent Public Test Channel update introduces a feature that simplifies the process of using any keyboard with the VR headset. Although it is already possible to use connected keyboards with the Meta Quest, this new feature could make the process more straightforward and provide more diverse options for users.

The Meta Quest VR headset features cameras that enable users to view their surroundings (referred to as passthrough). This feature enables the Meta Quest to operate certain apps and show portions of the real world while a user is immersed in their virtual environment, known as their virtual home. A potential issue with using a keyboard may be addressed by this PTC update.

Meta Quest recently unveiled the PTC v71, a new update that Twitter user FouzReda pointed out alters how keyboards are perceived by the headset. Typically, when a user is within their virtual home, they can connect a keyboard via Bluetooth to the headset. The VR headset then displays a 3D representation of the keyboard on-screen, mirroring its position in the real world for easy access. However, this functionality works with certain keyboards only. In contrast, PTC v71 switches from the 3D model method and instead introduces a transparent section where the actual keyboard is situated in reality. This enables users to see directly into their physical surroundings while typing, potentially making the experience feel more intuitive.

Meta Quest PTC v71 Improves Keyboard Compatibility

As a tech enthusiast, I’m thrilled about this new feature! It expands the compatibility of our headset beyond just those connected keyboards. Now, it can recognize any keyboard within its vicinity, displaying an outline of it in white until you get close enough. Once you’re near, it switches to a live feed of your actual keyboard, enabling you to type on various keyboards around your home, such as laptop keyboards, seamlessly!

Although the Meta Quest functionality seems intriguing, it can only be accessed through the Preview Test Channel (PTC) at the moment, and there’s no guarantee that it will fully materialize as a main feature. The PTC is used to evaluate new features with real users to ensure they function correctly and are well-liked before being rolled out in the official, stable version. It’s important to note that not all tested features end up being included in the final product. We’ll have to wait and see if Meta decides to offer this functionality to regular users.

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2024-10-12 03:24