In a landmark collaboration, Microsoft and Meta have officially unveiled the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition a special edition of Meta’s latest VR headset that aims to bring Xbox Cloud Gaming into the world of virtual reality. While not a native VR platform for Xbox games, this headset presents a novel way for gamers to experience their favourite Xbox titles on a massive virtual screen from nearly anywhere.
A VR Headset with Xbox at Its Core
Announced in June 2025, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is designed for gamers who want the flexibility of VR with the familiarity of Xbox. The headset features a slick Carbon Black body with Velocity Green accents, echoing the aesthetic of the iconic Xbox Series X and controller design.
Priced at $399.99 USD, the limited edition bundle includes:
- A 128GB Meta Quest 3S headset
- Two matching Touch Plus VR controllers
- An Xbox Wireless Controller (pre-paired out of the box)
- A Meta Elite Strap for enhanced comfort
- A 3-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
This makes the bundle both attractive for newcomers to VR and a potential portable gaming solution for Xbox fans.
How It Works: Xbox Games in VR, but Not VR Xbox Games
It’s important to note that this headset does not support native Xbox VR games because such games don’t exist (yet). Instead, the experience is based on Xbox Cloud Gaming, streamed via the Xbox app built into the Quest interface.
Players can boot into the Xbox app directly from the headset and stream titles like Starfield, Halo Infinite, Hi-Fi Rush, and Forza Motorsport to a giant virtual 2D screen. Alternatively, they can opt for a pass-through view that places the game’s virtual display into the real-world environment using Meta’s mixed reality features.
This setup transforms the headset into a portable Xbox screen—perfect for lounging on the couch, commuting with a controller, or gaming without needing a TV.
A Comfortable and Thoughtful Bundle
What sets the Xbox Edition apart from a standard Quest 3S is the added Meta Elite Strap, which improves comfort for long gaming sessions. The included Xbox controller is not just themed it’s pre-paired with the headset, simplifying the setup process.
Meta and Microsoft have also pre-installed the Xbox Cloud Gaming app and made sure that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can start playing immediately after setup.
The Technical Specs: What’s Under the Hood
The Meta Quest 3S itself is a slightly trimmed-down version of the Meta Quest 3, optimized for affordability and performance. Key specs include:
- Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor
- 2064 x 2208 pixels per eye
- Mixed reality support via color pass-through cameras
- 120Hz refresh rate support
- Inside-out tracking (no external sensors required)
These features ensure that the Meta Quest 3S can deliver fluid and immersive visuals, whether you’re playing VR-native titles or streaming Xbox games through the cloud.
Who’s It For?
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition isn’t for everyone. Hardcore VR gamers looking for full-motion Xbox-native VR titles will be disappointed, as this bundle doesn’t introduce new software or game mechanics to support that.
But for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, frequent travelers, or gamers looking for a high-quality, immersive streaming display, it’s a compelling option.
This move also reflects Microsoft’s broader strategy of expanding Xbox beyond the console and into cloud-first ecosystems smart TVs, mobile devices, handhelds like the ROG Ally, and now, VR headsets.
Australian Availability
As of writing, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition has been announced for release in the United States and United Kingdom through Meta’s store, Best Buy, Argos, and EE.
There’s no official word yet on Australian availability, though Meta has previously brought hardware to the region. Interested Australian customers may need to rely on international importers until a local release is confirmed.
Final Thoughts: A Step Toward Xbox in the Metaverse
While not the full-fledged Xbox VR system that some fans have long hoped for, the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is a meaningful collaboration between two tech giants. It symbolizes a shared vision for the future of gaming one where cloud infrastructure, portability, and immersive tech combine to create new possibilities.
And though this headset doesn’t change the VR gaming landscape overnight, it certainly adds another piece to the puzzle.
Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition launches soon in limited quantities for $399.99 USD. Whether you’re a VR enthusiast, a cloud gaming advocate, or just want a cool Xbox-themed headset.
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