Oculus is currently recalling a component of the Oculus Quest 2. The reason lies in an uncomfortable reaction that some gamers are complaining about.
The Oculus Quest 2 is considered one of the best VR headsets available. This is mainly because you don’t need additional hardware besides the headset, and the device is quick to set up. The only downside is that you necessarily need a Facebook account for the Oculus Quest 2.
This is the problem: However, the popular VR headset is now causing issues. Since early April, there have been reports that a component can cause skin irritation. Oculus writes in its own blog (via oculus.com):
We have received reports of skin irritation in about 0.01% of Quest 2 users, occurring at the spot where the foam part of the Quest 2 headset rests on the face.
Oculus has now updated its blog and stated that a solution for the problem has been found. For this reason, a part of the device is being recalled, and a free replacement will be provided.
Developers offer exchange of the problematic parts
What happens now? Oculus is voluntarily recalling the removable foam face cover of the Oculus Quest 2 and exchanging it free of charge for a silicone cover. The silicone cover is intended not to irritate the face or cause issues. Oculus writes in the updated post:
Anyone who already owns a Quest 2 or a Fit Pack can receive a free silicone cover that fits over the foam facial interface of the Quest 2.
That’s why you should exchange the component: If you have already purchased an Oculus Quest 2 or a Fit Pack, take the opportunity to have the part exchanged.
Although Oculus explains that there have not been any particularly severe cases with the foam face cover, you should still be on the safe side and have the problematic component exchanged. There are no reports on when the irritations occur and what the affected individuals reacted to.
Where does VR stand now? VR gameplay could become an important factor for gamers in the future. For example, the VR MMORPG Zenith presented gameplay, where you can move through the game world with a VR headset. Additionally, some users hope to immerse themselves in a virtual world like in Sword Art: Online.
However, on the next-gen consoles Xbox and PS5, VR is likely to have no role in 2021. As the Sony CEO stated, VR will not be a significant part of gaming. Nevertheless, a new version of PlayStation VR is also expected to be released in the future. So far, however, there is no official release date.
