Meta lowers age requirement for Quest VR headset users

Meta has made a change to the age requiremnet for its quest headset users , allowing younger children to have their own account. the minimum age for a meta account to use the virtual reality headset has dropped from 13 to 10 years old, the company said in a blog post friday. Parents can create an account for their children and will have control over the apps they decide they want to download. However, Meta will only show age appropritae apps for the preteens to use . 

VR (virtual reality) headsets have been steadily growing in popularity over the years, with increasing adoption and interest from consumers. While it's difficult to provide exact figures, several indicators suggest the rising popularity of VR headsets:

1. Market Growth: The VR headset market has experienced significant growth. According to market research firm IDC, global shipments of VR headsets reached 8.4 million units in 2020, a notable increase compared to previous years.

2. Gaming and Entertainment: VR headsets have gained considerable traction in the gaming and entertainment industries. Major players like Oculus (owned by Facebook) and HTC Vive have released consumer-friendly VR headsets that offer immersive gaming experiences. Virtual reality has also expanded into other entertainment sectors, including virtual tours, 360-degree videos, and interactive storytelling.

3. Diverse Applications: VR headsets are finding applications beyond gaming and entertainment. Industries such as healthcare, education, real estate, and engineering are utilizing VR to enhance training, simulation, visualization, and remote collaboration. This increased adoption in professional settings further highlights the growing popularity of VR headsets.

4. Improved Technology and Affordability: Advances in technology have made VR headsets more accessible and user-friendly. Newer models offer higher resolution displays, improved tracking systems, and enhanced comfort. Additionally, prices have become more affordable, making VR headsets more appealing to a broader consumer base.

5. Increasing Content and Developer Support: The availability of diverse and high-quality VR content has contributed to the popularity of VR headsets. Developers and content creators are actively producing games, applications, and experiences designed specifically for virtual reality, further enhancing the overall VR ecosystem.

6. Mainstream Media Attention: VR headsets have received substantial coverage in mainstream media outlets, generating curiosity and awareness among the general public. This exposure has helped to increase interest and fuel the growing popularity of VR headsets.

While VR headsets are still not as ubiquitous as smartphones or traditional gaming consoles, their increasing adoption and expanding range of applications indicate a promising future. As technology continues to advance and more compelling content becomes available, VR headsets are expected to become even more popular in the coming years.