Virtual reality (VR) headsets used to exist only in the realm of science fiction movies. However, the entry of big tech brands into this niche coupled with an increase in applications has promised to take the segment mainstream.

When comparing WiFi-connected VR headset deployments in the second half of 2021 to those in the second half of 2022, Plume households that own a VR headset have not added more headsets, in fact, we’ve seen a slight decline of -0.9% in the average number per home. However, over the same period, there has been an exponential increase in VR headset-related data usage of +83.9%, coupled with a marginal increase in accumulated busy hours per day of +0.9%. This suggests that while users aren’t using their VR headsets for longer periods, they are using more data-rich services and applications.

When it comes to market share, Meta is the dominant force responsible for 99.7% of VR headset deployments in Plume homes. For now, all indicators suggest that the category remains niche, but with richer applications now available, is the market preparing to go mainstream?