Back in September, during their Connect conference, Meta revealed an exciting partnership with Microsoft aimed at wirelessly connecting Windows 11 PCs to Quest headsets. Fast forward, and both companies are now gearing up for a preview release scheduled for December.
This new feature is set to transform Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets into dynamic multi-monitor workstations by linking them with Windows 11 PCs. This concept might ring a bell for those familiar with Apple’s Vision Pro and Mac Virtual Display, which have offered similar functionality since their debut in February 2024.
Microsoft plans to debut this feature in a public preview in December. They anticipate that this will be a big hit among users eager to enhance their productivity.
Speaking on the feature, Melissa Grant, Microsoft 365’s Senior Director of Product Marketing, shared in a blog, “Windows in mixed reality brings the full capabilities of Windows 11 to mixed reality headsets, starting with Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. Access to your local Windows PC or Windows 365 Cloud PC from a Quest headset is seamless and takes only seconds to connect to a private, high-quality, multiple-monitor workstation.”
During the initial announcement at the Connect event in September, Meta showcased a neat trick that lets users connect to a PC simply by glancing at their keyboard. This innovation allows for swift computer access and the ability to manage windows across multiple virtual monitors, setting it apart from the more traditional Remote Desktop experience found with Meta’s Air Link.
While Quest headsets have been primarily known as top-notch standalone gaming devices, Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg believes that better Windows integration signifies a pivotal move forward for Quest.
“This is the path to building a general computing platform,” Zuckerberg explained. “It’s not just about games, though [Quest] excels there. It’s about using apps, watching videos, and undertaking all sorts of activities you’d expect from a general-purpose computer. Quest is the full package.”
We’ll be keeping our ears to the ground for any release date announcements and will share updates as they come in.
