Meta has decided to halt the development of a high-end mixed reality headset, originally intended to rival Apple’s Vision Pro. This headset, known internally as “La Jolla,” was initially slated for release in 2027. However, despite earlier plans and the start of development last November, Meta recently instructed its team to stop working on the project.
The decision to scrap La Jolla was influenced by several factors, including the high cost of MicroOLED displays that were intended to be used in the device. These displays, while offering superior quality, are expensive to produce, making it challenging to keep the headset’s price under $1,000—a key goal for Meta. Additionally, the market reception of high-end devices like Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro, which has struggled to gain traction, raised doubts about the viability of a premium mixed reality headset. The lukewarm response to Meta’s own Quest Pro, which debuted at $1,499 but quickly lost momentum, further contributed to this decision.
Publicly, Meta downplayed the significance of canceling La Jolla. Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, explained on social media that the company constantly develops various prototypes, not all of which make it to production. He emphasized that decisions like these are common and that focusing on one project’s cancellation doesn’t reflect the full picture of Meta’s ongoing efforts.
Despite pulling the plug on La Jolla, Meta remains committed to advancing its VR and AR technology. Reports indicate that Meta is working on a more affordable Quest headset, codenamed Ventura, which could be released later this year. Moreover, the company is expected to unveil new AR glasses at its upcoming Meta Connect event. Looking further ahead, rumors suggest that Meta plans to release two versions of the Quest 4—both standard and premium—in 2026.
In conclusion, while Meta has stepped back from competing directly with high-end devices like the Vision Pro, the company continues to explore other avenues in the VR and AR market. Their focus appears to be shifting toward more accessible and affordable options, potentially broadening their appeal in a market that remains in flux.
