Meta Introduces “Direct Touch” Feature for Quest Platform
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has announced new improvements to its Quest platform with the v50 OS update. One of the key features included in this update is an experimental feature called “Direct Touch.” This feature allows users to interact with the virtual reality (VR) environment by tapping and swiping with their bare hands, without the need for controllers.
Enhanced VR Interactions with Direct Touch
While hand tracking was already available on the Quest platform since 2019, the Direct Touch feature takes it a step further. Users can now perform various actions beyond simply pinching the air. They can tap on buttons, swipe through the game library, and even type messages on the virtual keyboard, all with the use of their hands, without relying on controllers.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg demonstrated the Direct Touch feature in an Instagram Reel, comparing it to using a touchscreen on a smartphone. The intuitive nature of this feature is expected to be appealing to many users.
Zuckerberg remarked that these new hand gestures feel “much more natural,” and the company stated that Direct Touch provides a “more intuitive and engaging way to interact with the system and 2D panels in general.” This feature can be found within the Experimental Settings tab and is available on both Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest Pro devices.
In-Game Multitasking for Meta Quest 2 Users
Meta Quest 2 users can now enjoy the in-game multitasking feature, which was previously exclusive to Meta Quest Pro. With this feature, users can easily launch 2D apps, such as Instagram and the Meta Quest Browser, while playing a game. By selecting the Meta Quest button, users can access their app library and seamlessly switch between gaming and other applications.
Image Credits: Meta
Improved Controller Response Time
In addition to the new features, the v50 update also brings improvements in controller response time. Meta has decreased the amount of time it takes for self-tracking to start on the Meta Quest Touch Pro controllers. As a result, when users put on their headset, the controllers will quickly understand their position. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users who switch from hand tracking to controllers, ensuring a smoother transition.
Meta has further indicated that they have plans to introduce additional upgrades to the Meta Quest Touch Pro controllers in the future.
Meta’s Continued Investment in the Metaverse
Despite facing financial challenges in its VR and AR division, Reality Labs, with a loss of $13.7 billion in 2022 compared to revenue of $2.16 billion, Meta remains committed to investing in the metaverse. The company is set to launch a consumer VR headset later this year.
Potential Competition from Apple
Meta may soon face competition from tech giant Apple, as reports suggest that Apple is working on developing its own VR headset. According to Bloomberg, the headset is said to feature advanced eye-tracking and hand-tracking capabilities.