Meta announces new educational hub for Quest VR headsets
What's the story
Meta, the tech giant formerly known as Facebook, is set to launch a new educational hub for its Quest virtual reality (VR) headsets.
The announcement was made by Nick Clegg, Meta's President of Global Affairs, in a recent blog post.
The hub aims to streamline the use of VR technology in educational settings, and is expected to be launched later this year.
Features
Educational hub to enhance learning experiences
The educational hub will offer teachers access to apps and features specifically designed for education.
It will also provide tools that simplify the management of multiple Quest headsets within a classroom setting.
While the product's name and specific features are yet to be revealed, Clegg emphasized Meta's commitment to enhancing learning experiences through this initiative.
Challenges
Potential barriers to widespread VR adoption
Despite the potential benefits, there are hurdles to the widespread adoption of Meta's educational hub.
The cost may be prohibitive for some schools, limiting its reach.
Additionally, the hub will only be available to schools catering to students aged 13 and above, and in regions where Meta's business-focused Quest subscription is available.
This subscription service carries a monthly fee of $14.99 (around ₹1,250) per device in the US.
Progress
Meta's ongoing efforts in VR education
Meta has been actively exploring the use of its VR headsets in education over the past year.
In September, it supplied 15 US universities with Quest headsets, and began testing ways to promote educational apps on the Quest store.
However, it remains uncertain whether other schools as well as universities, will adopt this technology without financial support from Meta.