Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is working on a new feature for its VR headset, the Meta Quest 2. The firmware detective NyaVR discovered the code that suggests the company is working on a real-time captioning system that will work with audio from all sources in the headset. This includes audio from apps, videos, and voice chat or parties. Real-time subtitling is not new, but this will be the first time a VR headset will support such a feature.
The new real-time subtitling feature will be especially useful for foreign language VR games without subtitles, which could benefit from such a feature. The system is still in development, and Meta has been working on it for some time. New strings were added to the beta version of the v50 firmware update, which is currently being tested by Meta. However, this does not mean that the feature will roll out soon. It only shows that Meta is still working on it.
Foreign language VR games without subtitles could also benefit from such a feature. The feature will help eliminate the language barrier for users who encounter foreign speakers in VR. This is a welcome development for the VR community, as it enhances the overall accessibility of the VR headset.
Option to Customize Voice Assistant
Apart from the real-time subtitling feature, NyaVR also found evidence of an option to customize the voice of the voice assistant. The AI’s name and wake-up word could be changed, giving users more flexibility and personalization options. The current wake-up word is the outdated “Hey Facebook,” which Meta may consider changing in the future.
Voice assistant features support the US only. This could change in the future, as Meta works on expanding the feature to other regions.
New Features in the Works
The firmware finds by NyaVR have revealed that Meta is working on several new features for the Meta Quest 2. The company is planning to update the Quest Guardian system, which will allow multi-room setup and a reclining mode. The coming Touch controls for Quest menus will make the interface touch-sensitive, allowing users to interact with it by tapping their virtual or real hand. Previously, users operated the menus with a kind of pointer that emanated from the controller or their hands.
The last Quest firmware update v49 was released in mid-January, which was quite unspectacular. Meta usually releases corresponding updates monthly, which means v50 could roll out in the next few days. The upcoming firmware update could bring exciting new features to the Meta Quest 2, enhancing the user experience and increasing the accessibility of the VR headset.
Real-time Subtitling: Conclusion
Meta is working on a real-time subtitling feature for its VR headset, the Meta Quest 2, which will cover all audio sources. This will be the first VR headset to support such a feature. The feature will be especially useful for foreign language VR games without subtitles, and it could help eliminate the language barrier for users who encounter foreign speakers in VR. Meta is also planning to update the Quest Guardian system, introduce a reclining mode, and touch controls for Quest menus, which will enhance the user experience. With these new features, the Meta Quest 2 will become more accessible and user-friendly.