Meta Connect, once known as Oculus Connect and Facebook Connect, remains a pivotal event in showcasing Meta’s innovative strides in virtual and mixed reality technologies. As we gear up for the Meta Connect 2024, scheduled to commence virtually on September 25, the buzz around Meta’s latest advancements, especially in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and AR (Augmented Reality), is palpable. This year’s event is especially significant, with potential game-changing revelations that could reshape our digital interactions.
The Evolution and Expectations at Meta Connect 2024
In the ever-evolving tech landscape, Meta has consistently aimed to align with, if not stay ahead of, technological trends. Post the launch of Apple’s Vision Pro, and the subsequent AR interest spike, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg seems poised to push AR from conceptual sketches to tangible experiences. Although Zuckerberg has cooled on his metaverse ambitions, the fusion of AI and AR could bring to life his vision of persistent virtual worlds, albeit perhaps less sci-fi than Ready Player One’s depiction.
A Strategic Pivot: From High-End Headsets to Accessible AR
Meta’s strategy appears to have shifted from high-end hardware to more accessible innovations. The company reportedly shelved plans for an advanced mixed reality headset to focus on the Orion AR glasses, a more user-friendly approach to AR. These glasses, hinted at in various Zuckerberg appearances and interviews, promise a blend of everyday usability with advanced holographic capabilities, without the bulkiness of its predecessors like Magic Leap or Microsoft’s HoloLens. Zuckerberg shared his excitement about Orion in the Blueprint Podcast, stating, “The glasses are, I think, going to be a big deal. We’re almost ready to start showing the prototype version of the full holographic glasses.” However, he emphasized that the focus is on refining the consumer version rather than mass distributing a prototype.
Meta Quest 3S: Making Advanced VR More Accessible
Another significant highlight expected at Meta Connect 2024 is the introduction of the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable variant of the Quest 3. This move, likely aimed at making advanced VR technology accessible to a broader audience, could set new industry standards for VR headsets. Leaks and reports suggest that the Quest 3S will start at a price point of $299, making it a compelling choice for consumers seeking high-quality VR experiences without the premium cost.
Amplifying AI Integration Across Platforms
Meta is also set to showcase enhancements in AI integration across its platforms, including the Quest headsets and Ray-Ban smart glasses. With the roll-out of multi-modal AI search capabilities earlier this year, Meta demonstrated its commitment to embedding AI in everyday devices. The upcoming event may reveal further advancements powered by its Llama 3.1 large language model, which promises improved translation, math, and general knowledge functionalities.
What to Expect as Meta Connect 2024 Unfolds
As Meta Connect 2024 approaches, the tech community and consumers alike are keenly waiting to see how Meta will further blend AI and AR into our digital lives. With plans to unveil not just hardware but also software advancements, Meta is positioning itself at the forefront of the next digital revolution. Whether it’s through the Orion AR glasses or the Quest 3S headset, Meta’s commitment to transforming our digital interactions remains clear and is something to watch closely in the coming days.
