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Microsoft and Meta did release an Xbox-inspired headset, but it is not an Xbox VR console. The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition launched on June 24, 2025, as a limited-edition 128GB Quest 3S bundle. Its Xbox feature is access to Xbox Cloud Gaming on a large virtual screen, while the hardware remains Meta’s Quest platform.
What Microsoft and Meta actually launched
The product is officially called the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition. Xbox announced and released it on June 24, 2025, describing it as the first limited-edition Quest release, created around Xbox Cloud Gaming’s expansion to Meta Quest headsets. The announcement is available from Xbox Wire.
It follows a broader Microsoft–Meta partnership announced on October 11, 2022, covering Microsoft Teams, Microsoft 365, enterprise management and exploration of Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest. Microsoft’s original announcement is at Microsoft’s blog.
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| Item | Included specification |
|---|---|
| Headset | 128GB Meta Quest 3S |
| Finish | Xbox Carbon Black and Velocity Green styling |
| VR controllers | Matching Meta Touch Plus controllers |
| Game controller | Limited-edition Xbox Wireless Controller, pre-paired with the headset |
| Head strap | Meta Quest Elite Strap |
| Subscriptions | Three months of Meta Horizon+ and three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate |
The included controller is not the only option. Xbox says a compatible Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 or Xbox Adaptive Controller can also be paired through Bluetooth.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Is this a genuine Xbox VR headset?
No. The Xbox Edition is a themed Meta Quest 3S, running Meta’s Quest/Horizon OS ecosystem. Microsoft has not introduced a separate Xbox operating system, console architecture or Xbox-exclusive VR platform with this product.
- The headset uses the regular Quest 3S hardware platform.
- Xbox branding changes the finish and bundle contents, not the underlying generation or performance.
- It can run existing Quest-native mixed-reality and VR software.
- It does not install Xbox console games locally.
Calling it an “Xbox VR console” suggests capabilities the product does not provide. “Xbox-themed Quest bundle” is the more accurate description.
How Xbox gaming works on the headset
Xbox games are accessed through the Xbox app on Quest and streamed using Xbox Cloud Gaming. They appear on a large virtual display, much like playing on a giant private television inside the headset, rather than surrounding you as native six-degrees-of-freedom VR content.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Set up the Quest 3S and connect it to a reliable internet connection.
- Open the Xbox app on Quest.
- Sign in with an account that has the required Xbox Cloud Gaming access, such as the included Game Pass Ultimate trial during its valid period.
- Pair the included Xbox Wireless Controller, or another compatible controller.
- Select a supported game and stream it to the virtual screen.
Hand tracking is not a substitute for the conventional Xbox controller in ordinary Xbox games. Cloud performance depends on connection quality, congestion and latency; a more powerful headset cannot remove network delay.
Supported games can retain Xbox ecosystem features such as cross-play, cross-progression, saved data and achievements where those features are available on the relevant game and service.
What it cannot do
- No native Xbox VR conversions are announced: the launch information describes cloud streaming to a virtual display, not Xbox games rendered as VR worlds.
- No local Xbox console installs: the headset does not download and run console versions internally.
- No exclusive cloud-gaming requirement: the Xbox Edition is not necessary for Xbox Cloud Gaming on Quest.
- No documented hardware advantage: Xbox branding does not make this Quest 3S faster or more capable than the standard model.
Xbox’s July 2025 update confirmed that owners of an in-market Quest headset, a strong internet connection and a compatible Xbox controller could also play Xbox games on a virtual screen. See Xbox’s July update.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Launch price and availability
The documented United States launch price was $399.99 on June 24, 2025. Xbox listed Meta and Best Buy in the United States, and Argos and EE in the United Kingdom. Quantities were described as “extremely limited.”
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That is a historical launch price, not a guaranteed price for a later purchase. The announcement does not establish stock, resale pricing or retailer availability in 2026. A listing on a marketplace should be checked for the correct 128GB model, a valid warranty and unused subscription codes.
Xbox Edition versus a standard Quest 3S
| Consideration | Quest 3S Xbox Edition | Standard Quest 3S |
|---|---|---|
| Core platform | Quest 3S | Quest 3S |
| Xbox styling | Carbon Black/Velocity Green design and matching accessories | Standard finish |
| Controller | Limited-edition Xbox Wireless Controller included | Not part of the standard headset package |
| Head strap | Meta Quest Elite Strap included | Standard package unless separately bundled |
| Trials | Three months of Meta Horizon+ and three months of Game Pass Ultimate | Bundle terms vary |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | Available through the Xbox app, internet and compatible controller | Also available with the same requirements |
| Availability | Limited-edition stock and resale supply | Generally easier to replace, return or buy refurbished |
The Xbox Edition’s functional advantage is convenience and included extras, not exclusive access to cloud gaming. If Xbox cosmetics, the Elite Strap and the bundled controller have little value to you, a standard Quest 3S is usually the more practical route.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Xbox Edition versus Quest 3
Quest 3 is Meta’s higher-tier model, while Quest 3S is the lower-cost platform used for the Xbox Edition. Quest 3 buyers should expect a more premium headset experience, including sharper optics and broader adjustment flexibility, but the Xbox Edition does not become a Quest 3 through its branding or accessories.
Choose between them based on use: prioritize Quest 3 if you expect substantial native VR use and optical quality matters most; consider the Xbox Edition if the themed bundle, included accessories and lower-cost Quest 3S platform are the priority. Current prices and storage bundles change, so compare them at the time of purchase rather than relying on the 2025 launch price.
Are the subscriptions permanent?
No. The bundle includes three-month trials, not lifetime memberships. Before redeeming a code, check the applicable redemption deadline, regional restrictions, eligibility for new or returning subscribers, payment-method requirements and automatic-renewal terms. Meta Horizon+ and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate are separate services with separate conditions.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Who should buy it?
Good fit
- Xbox fans who specifically want the Carbon Black and Velocity Green design.
- First-time VR buyers who would use the included Elite Strap, controller and trials.
- Collectors who understand that limited production does not guarantee future appreciation.
- Players who want streamed Xbox games on a private virtual screen and have dependable internet.
Better served by another option
- Buyers seeking a new Xbox console in headset form or native Xbox VR games.
- Anyone with unreliable broadband or Wi-Fi.
- Existing Quest owners who already have an Xbox controller, Elite Strap and Game Pass access.
- Buyers who value easy replacement, standard warranty support or refurbished availability.
- Shoppers facing an inflated resale price without confirmed code validity and warranty coverage.
Buying and resale checks
- Confirm that the listing says 128GB Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, not a standard Quest 3S with decorative accessories.
- Ask whether the Game Pass Ultimate and Horizon+ codes were redeemed.
- Verify the seller’s return policy and manufacturer warranty eligibility.
- Check that the Xbox Wireless Controller and Elite Strap are actually included.
- Do not assume “limited edition” means numbered production or investment-grade collectibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Xbox Edition to play Xbox games on Quest?
No. Xbox said compatible existing Quest headsets can use Xbox Cloud Gaming with the Xbox app, a strong internet connection and a compatible Xbox controller.
Are Xbox games displayed in full VR?
They are streamed to a large virtual screen. The announcement does not establish native VR versions of Xbox console games.
Is the Game Pass membership permanent?
No. The bundle provides a three-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate trial, subject to redemption and regional terms.
The Bottom Line
The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is best understood as a limited Xbox-themed Quest bundle: attractive to fans who value its styling, Elite Strap, controller and trial subscriptions, but not a new Xbox console or a gateway to exclusive native Xbox VR games.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
