Instagram Enters 3D On Meta Quest Headsets

Jay Peters is a news editor covering technology gaming and more. He joined The Verge in 2019 after nearly two years at Techmeme.

Meta has started testing an exciting new feature: displaying 3D photos on Instagram for users browsing their feed with a Meta Quest VR headset.

How AI Brings Your 2D Photos to Life in VR

According to a Meta blog post, this is made possible by their AI view synthesis algorithms. These algorithms can transform standard Instagram photos pixel by pixel, meaning no special 3D cameras are needed. Meta explains, "flat photos that weren’t originally captured in 3D will automatically be converted into an immersive format that gives 2D images a sense of depth when you view them on Quest."

Rollout Details and Meta's 3D History

The testing phase commenced this week. However, Meta notes that "Not everyone will have access to 3D Instagram photos on Quest – and even if you’re in the test group, you may not see it right away." This isn't Meta's first venture into 3D visuals; the company introduced a 3D photo feature for Facebook back in 2018.

More Than Just 3D: What Else is New in Quest v77?

This Instagram 3D photo test is part of the broader Meta Quest v77 update, which brings several other enhancements.

Introducing Navigator for Enhanced Quest Experience

A significant addition in the v77 update, also in testing, is Navigator. Meta describes Navigator as "a new home for your games and apps, friends, notifications, essential system settings, and more on Quest." Accessing Navigator is simple: just press the Meta or Oculus button on your right controller. It provides quick access to recently used applications, and users can pin up to 10 items for even faster navigation. More details about Navigator are available in a video on Meta's website.

Other Key Features in the v77 Update

Additionally, the v77 update introduces experimental support for Bluetooth Low Energy audio devices. It also allows users to select a window that can follow them as they move and consolidates Meta Quest Link, casting, and remote desktop functionalities into a unified PC application called Horizon for PC.