facebook messenger lands on oculus quest
Facebook Highlights VR Progress and New Features for Quest 2
During their most recent quarterly earnings discussion, Facebook dedicated a significant amount of time to detailing their achievements in the realm of Virtual Reality. They specifically highlighted the successes experienced by developers and their own positive results from sales of the Quest 2 VR headset.
Limited Third-Party App Support
A continuing challenge for the VR platform is the limited support from third-party developers for applications extending beyond gaming. Despite being a capable device, the headset has a scarcity of VR ports for mobile applications. Even streaming services like Hulu and Netflix have received minimal updates, attributable to the relatively small user base.
Integrating Facebook Features into the VR Experience
Facebook, itself a substantial app developer, has been navigating a complex situation. They aim to integrate the functionality of their core services into the headset without deterring users who may be hesitant about a product overtly branded by Facebook.
Following the implementation of mandatory Facebook login last autumn, the company has now announced that Quest and Quest 2 users will have access to Messenger chats directly within the app. This allows users to send pre-written messages, type using the in-VR keyboard, or utilize the headset’s voice-to-text capability.
Balancing Social Connectivity and User Preference
This update may further discourage those concerned about Facebook’s increasing control over the VR platform. However, users seeking a more social VR experience, or those wanting to avoid complete disconnection while using the headset, will likely find the new feature beneficial.
Introducing App Lab for Wider Content Access
In addition to the Messenger update, Facebook announced the rollout of App Lab. This feature functions similarly to TestFlight, enabling Quest users to download content outside of the official Oculus Store.
This addresses growing concerns that Facebook has restricted access for emerging game developers. Users can locate titles within App Lab by name or through direct links. This new functionality directly competes with SideQuest, a startup already providing a platform for experimental Quest content.
Gradual Update Rollout
Facebook has indicated that the update is being deployed “gradually” to users, meaning not everyone will receive it immediately.
Lucas Matney
Lucas Matney: A Profile
Lucas Matney previously held the position of Senior Editor at TechCrunch. His work was centered in San Francisco, California.
Background and Role
As a Senior Editor, Matney was responsible for overseeing and contributing to the technology news coverage provided by TechCrunch. He played a key role in shaping the publication’s editorial direction.
His location in San Francisco placed him at the heart of the technology industry, facilitating access to important events and sources. This proximity was crucial for his reporting.
TechCrunch and its Focus
TechCrunch is a leading online publisher focused on technology news, startups, and venture capital. It provides in-depth reporting and analysis of the tech landscape.
- Key Areas of Coverage: Startups, venture funding, new technologies.
- Audience: Entrepreneurs, investors, and technology enthusiasts.
- Location: While global in scope, TechCrunch maintains a significant presence in Silicon Valley.
Matney’s role at TechCrunch involved contributing to this coverage, ensuring the delivery of timely and insightful information to its readership.
Editorial Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a Senior Editor typically include managing a team of writers, editing articles, and developing story ideas. Matney’s position demanded a strong understanding of the technology sector.
Furthermore, the role required excellent communication skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into accessible content. He was instrumental in maintaining the quality of TechCrunch’s output.