The latest Meta Quest Pro update introduced some major improvements that I wish Oculus Quest 2 had, too.
The first, and my favourite, is the background audio input. Now when you’re sitting at your virtual desk in Horizon Workrooms, or if you’re playing a round of Walkabout Mini Golf, you can enjoy the audio playing from the Browser app in the background. Sign into your music streaming service of choice, or stick to a podcast, and if you have the background audio feature turned on, you should be able to hear audio while using a different app.
To turn this feature on, head to the demo section of Meta Quest Pro’s settings. Once there, you should be able to turn on background audio playback and give it a try.
The other update is a big change to the Quest Pro’s mixed reality capture tool.
At a pre-launch event for Meta Quest Pro, I remember the YouTubers in attendance weren’t thrilled to hear mixed reality recordings wouldn’t capture the real world. Instead, the in-game items in the video will be shown against a completely blank black background. This will not create interesting content and certainly will not properly show off the Pro’s MR abilities.
Thankfully v47 changes that. Now when you hit the record while playing a mixed reality app like Tribe XR or Painting VR (one of the VR apps I recommended back in October) (Opens in a new tab)You will be able to capture both in-game and real-world items in a single video. So consider this as a warning to you to remove anything embarrassing from your VR space before you set a record as it will now be on display for all to see.
Make your wish list come true
The Meta hasn’t forgotten about those still using the Oculus Quest 2 because version 47 also brings some (albeit minor) upgrades to the headset as well.
If you’ve been hoping to digitally crack some new VR games this year—perhaps some from Oculus Quest 2’s best games list—you might appreciate the new shareable Wishlist feature. In the Meta Quest Store, you can head to the Wishlist tab, make the wishlist public, and then create a link so others can check it out.
The update will also make it easier to switch up your Meta avatar’s appearance. Thanks to the new mirror that will appear in your Horizon Home environment, Quest 2 and Quest Pro users will be able to check the appearance of their avatar in real time. You’ll be able to shuffle and assess your digital suitability before jumping into the metaverse hangout.
Looking for something Meta hardware doesn’t offer yet? Check out our other picks for the best virtual reality headsets.
