quickutilities – Xbox is reportedly planning to expand its hardware lineup by launching a VR headset in collaboration with Meta. Leaks shared on X and Game Sandwich suggest that the two tech giants are preparing to release a special Xbox-branded version of the Meta Quest 3S. They may release the device as early as June 24. Targeting newcomers to VR—especially those already engaged with the Xbox ecosystem.
This move would mark a major step for Xbox. Which has gradually shifted from a traditional console brand to a broader gaming platform. While neither Xbox nor Meta has officially confirmed the release. A 2024 blog post mentioned plans for a limited-edition Meta Quest inspired by Xbox. The recent success of collaborative hardware like the ROG Ally Xbox Edition shows Microsoft’s growing interest in working with third-party device makers.
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Leaked image reveals Xbox-branded Quest 3S with added accessories
A leaked promotional image suggests the upcoming headset will closely resemble the standard Meta Quest 3S model in design and hardware. It is expected to come with 128GB of storage, a standard for entry-level VR setups. However the Xbox edition will reportedly include a few key extras: an Xbox wireless controller. A Meta Quest Elite Strap, and a three-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass.
These additions aim to make the device an easy entry point for users unfamiliar with VR. The included controller allows users to immediately enjoy Xbox Cloud Gaming titles, while the Elite Strap offers better comfort and stability during gameplay. The Xbox Game Pass trial provides access to a wide range of games, further lowering the barrier to entry for potential customers.
Aimed at new users rather than existing Quest 3S owners
Despite having similar specs to the regular Quest 3S, this version appears to target a different segment of the market. Gamers who already own a Quest 3 or 3S likely won’t find many hardware upgrades here. Instead, the value lies in the packaging and the ecosystem integration.
The bundle serves as a gateway to the Xbox platform, especially for users who haven’t experienced VR before. By offering familiar Xbox accessories and a curated subscription service. Microsoft and Meta are presenting the headset as an all-in-one gaming package. This marketing approach could be especially appealing to gamers who already use Xbox consoles or Game Pass but haven’t yet tried virtual reality.
Xbox’s growing interest in hardware partnerships
This possible Meta collaboration follows a pattern in Microsoft’s recent strategy. Earlier, Xbox joined forces with Asus to launch the ROG Ally Xbox Edition, a handheld gaming PC. That device signaled a willingness to allow the Xbox brand to appear on hardware not made by Microsoft directly. These moves point to a broader push to extend Xbox beyond the living room and into more mobile, flexible forms.
Allowing other companies to co-brand Xbox-compatible hardware shows Microsoft’s intent to prioritize the Xbox gaming ecosystem over exclusive control of hardware manufacturing. It also opens the door for more collaborative products in the future, potentially helping Xbox compete in the broader gaming and tech landscape.
Rumored price and release date for Xbox VR headset
According to sources cited by Game Sandwich, the Xbox-branded Meta Quest 3S headset will be priced at $399. This positions it as a competitively priced entry-level VR bundle, especially when considering the added value of the controller and Game Pass subscription. The release date is reportedly set for June 24, though this has not been officially confirmed.
If accurate, the launch will come at a time when both companies are looking to expand their market presence. For Meta, this is an opportunity to attract more console gamers to its VR platform. For Xbox, the bundle presents a chance to test the waters in the VR space without building a dedicated headset from scratch. Whether this will lead to future standalone Xbox VR devices remains to be seen.
