Facebook has just announced a deal to acquire Rift headset creator Oculus VR for approximately US$2 billion in cash and stock (NZ$2.3b).

An agreement between the companies states that figure is made up of 23.1 million shares of Facebook common stock (valued at US$1.6b) and US$400m in cash, with another US$300m contingent on performance.

"Mobile is the platform of today, and now we're also getting ready for the platforms of tomorrow," said Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

"Oculus has the chance to create the most social platform ever, and change the way we work, play and communicate."

In a post on his Facebook timeline, Zuckerberg said that the gaming applications of the Oculus only scratched the surface of the device’s potential.

“Imagine enjoying a court side seat at a game, studying in a classroom of students and teachers all over the world or consulting with a doctor face-to-face – just by putting on goggles in your home,” he wrote.

“This is really a new communication platform. By feeling truly present, you can share unbounded spaces and experiences with the people in your life.

“Imagine sharing not just moments with your friends online, but entire experiences and adventures,” he added.

“I can't wait to start working with the whole team at Oculus to bring this future to the world, and to unlock new worlds for all of us.”

The acquisition will not have any effect on Oculus’ plans for gaming, and in fact will accelerate them, Zuckerberg said.

Oculus said that while the acquisition seems an odd fit, both companies see virtual reality as the next step for a more connected world.

"This partnership is one of the most important moments for virtual reality: it gives us the best shot at truly changing the world," said Oculus management.

"It opens doors to new opportunities and partnerships, reduces risk on the manufacturing and work capital side, allows us to publish more made-for-VR content, and lets us focus on what we do best: solving hard engineering challenges and delivering the future of VR."

The deal is expected to be finalised in the second quarter of this year.