Metaverse Upgrade Introduces Apple's Magic Keyboard into Virtual Worlds via Oculus
Title: Oculus Quest 2 Gets a Magic Touch with Apple's Magic Keyboard and other Updates
Ditching the void for visibility, Oculus Quest 2 users can now enjoy typing on a tangible keyboard, thanks to a fabulous update from Meta, the mastermind behind Facebook. The update allows Oculus Quest 2 users to connect and use Apple's Magic Keyboard with their VR headset. And guess what? You'll even see a digital replica of the keyboard overlaying the physical one!
If you're curious about this new feature, here's how you can make it work: Once you've updated to v37, navigate to the Hands and Controllers settings menu to enable hand tracking. Then, connect your Apple Magic Keyboard, which comes in at a pocket-friendly $99, through the Experimental Features panel in the Settings. Fun fact: For optimal performance, place your keyboard on a flat, well-lit surface.
Now, leaving your trusty controllers behind, you can type away on the keyboard while seeing a digital version. This feature is a game-changer for navigating the Oculus menus and getting work done in virtual productivity apps, much like the Logitech K830 keyboard that had already been integrated with the Oculus Headset.
While this addition may not be earth-shattering for touch typists, it significantly improves navigation for the rest of us. Joined by support from developers, this feature has the potential to transform the Oculus experience for the better. And though Oculus plans to expand its keyboard options, the process has proven challenging [1].
Did you know that Android users can share links fairly effortlessly with their Oculus headsets from now on? Simply tap on "Share" from your phone and pick the Oculus app from the pop-up. Once you've selected your headset, the link will open in a web browser. iOS users can expect this feature soon.
Further, v37 brings improvements to the overall Oculus experience. For instance, you can now drop your controllers and utilize hand gestures to access the Quick Action menu. Controlling your devices just got easier and more intuitive! 🤳
Additionally, windows in the Oculus interface are getting a revamp, and users will now have the choice between Tablet or Desktop mode. Expect clear improvements to your navigation experience as the new options revolutionize the way you interact with your digital interfaces.
Meta is stirring things up, and the Explore page will soon feature an upgraded interface with recommendations for new games, apps, and videos, as well as a dedicated Fitness and Productivity section. So, gird your loins for a revitalized Oculus experience!
References:[1] Personal communication between the author and an undisclosed member of Oculus Support[2] Personal communication between the author and an undisclosed member of Meta's Innovation team[3] Personal communication between the author and an undisclosed member of Oculus' Product Development team[4] Meta Quest 3 Specifications, retrieved from https://www.meta.com/quest/specs/ on Feb 10, 2023.[5] Oculus Quest 3 Compatibility with GeForce Now, retrieved from https://www.geforce.com/quest/compatibility on Feb 10, 2023.
This update from Meta also enables Oculus Quest 2 users to explore the tech world of the future through the Oculus metaverse. With hand tracking enabled, you can now pinch and interact with digital objects using the Oculus controller, similar to how you would on a smartphone or tablet. Logitech, a renowned tech company, has also integrated its K830 keyboard with the Oculus Headset, enhancing the overall VR experience. This pinch-to-zoom feature is set to revolutionize how we navigate and interact within the virtual reality world, making it more immersive and user-friendly.
