Oculus Quest 2 VR headset has the power to define cloud gaming

Virtual is the new reality

If you are an avid gamer you would know the role of a console, may even believe that immersive gaming without a console could only take place when pigs start to fly. But the reality is about to change and a glimpse of it was shown at the Indian Mobile Congress 2022 with the Oculus Quest 2, a standalone VR gaming headset that requires no supporting device like a PC or console to run games. 

The wireless all-in-one VR headset can run cloud-based games with intricate virtual details once 5G comes in place. The device uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 SoC, a derivative of the Snapdragon 865 designed exclusively for VR and augmented reality devices. As per Qualcomm, the XR2 offers six times better video resolution support, four times faster video bandwidth and 11 times faster AI processing. 

Along with the power of XR2, this VR headset offers a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz so real-time cloud gaming could be performed with ease.  Furthermore, with 5G low latency and high speed, gaming through the Oculus Quest 2 could be a one-of-its-kind experience. 

The Quest 2 allows users to access 360-degree content and its wireless feature offers freedom of movement in physical as well as digital space without the fear of tripping over. It's lightweight and comes with a comfortable headband that ensures the screen remains in a proper place for an effective viewing experience. 

The device comes with two controllers with a wand-like point and trigger system. It features a thumb rest space, a baton-like handle with triggers for forefingers and movement sticks for thumbs. There is also a strap for the secure fit of the motion controllers and a plastic ring that houses minuscule LEDs for tracking the movement of the hand and arms.

The speakers are placed in the headset’s straps and offer directional left and right stereo sound, since they are placed on the straps, an additional audio device can also be connected via the 3.5mm built-in jack on the headset. There is a built-in microphone too for smooth communication during multiplayer games and voice search. Recharging the Quest 2 is also quite easy, there is a USB-Type C port for a quick recharge. 

A rather interesting feature in the Oculus Quest 2 is the passthrough viewing mode. It allows users to see outside the headset without really taking it off. Wondering how? So there are external cameras that give a real-time black-and-white view of the real world on the VR screen. 

So the next time you are wearing your headset and someone walks in the room just switch on the passthrough viewing mode and you can secretly see the person, while he thinks you can’t. Cool, ha?

Another feature worthy of our attention is the ‘Casting to a phone or TV’ option, as the name suggests you can easily cast your VR screen to a Google Cast supporting device including a TV just by hitting the Oculus button and choosing the ‘turn on cast’ option. The Quest 2 headset can also be connected to a PC both wirelessly (with Oculus Air Link) as well as with a wire (through the PC’s USB port and an additional wire). The Oculus Link feature lets you enjoy PC games that come with better graphics and finer details. 

The device gets regular hardware as well as software updates expanding its capabilities, however, you do need a Facebook account to set up this VR headset.