Meta and LG have reportedly hit a major roadblock in their collaborative effort to develop an XR headset that was expected to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro. Originally set for a 2025 release, the launch has now been delayed to 2027, casting doubt on the project’s future.
Vision Pro Opens New Chapter in VR/AR
Apple’s Vision Pro has set a new benchmark in the VR/AR industry, drawing significant attention and sparking interest from numerous companies. Among these were Meta and LG, who announced a partnership in February to create a competitive XR headset. This collaboration was intended to produce a market-ready product by 2025. However, recent reports indicate that this partnership has encountered significant difficulties.
Development Challenges and Delays
Sources suggest that the development of the XR headset has not progressed as planned. Meta reportedly failed to meet development deadlines, causing friction within the partnership. LG responded to these reports, acknowledging that while the collaboration is ongoing, the project is not advancing at the expected pace.
The anticipated launch of the XR headset, which was seen as a potential rival to Apple
Impact on Meta’s Reality Labs
The delay in the XR headset development adds pressure to Meta’s Reality Labs division, which is already under strain. Reality Labs, responsible for Meta’s VR and metaverse initiatives, has incurred costs exceeding $1 billion. The high development expenses suggest that financial losses may continue to mount in the coming years.
Waning Interest in VR?
The delay also reflects a broader issue of declining interest in virtual reality. Previous reports highlighted stock issues with Sony’s PSVR 2, and sales of Apple’s Vision Pro have been underwhelming in some locations, with fewer than 100 units sold in certain stores.
This postponement highlights the challenges facing the VR/AR industry, including high development costs and fluctuating consumer interest. As Meta and LG navigate these obstacles, the future of their XR headset remains uncertain, potentially giving Apple’s Vision Pro a prolonged advantage in the market.
