Meta’s Connect 2024 event unveiled some of the most exciting advancements in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) this week. With a focus on cutting-edge hardware, deeper AI integrations, and future-ready AR glasses, Meta continues to push the boundaries of what technology can offer. Let’s dive into the top five announcements that set the stage for the future of Meta’s tech ecosystem.
1. Meta Quest 3S: Affordable VR Meets High-Performance AR
In response to the ongoing competition with Apple's Vision Pro, Meta has introduced the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable and accessible VR headset priced at $299.99 for the base 128GB model. Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, the Quest 3S provides a smooth and immersive VR experience with a fast-switch LCD screen and a 120Hz refresh rate.
This new model offers consumers an affordable way to experience VR and AR, enhancing Meta’s competitive edge in the virtual space. It’s also a step toward making advanced AR experiences mainstream, with pre-orders already available and shipping set for October 15.
2. Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Get an Upgrade
Meta's collaboration with Ray-Ban received a major upgrade with new smart glasses that now integrate augmented reality capabilities. These glasses can remember key information for you, such as where you last parked or which tasks you need to complete. Equipped with a “remember” function and enhanced natural language processing, they no longer require the “Hey Meta” wake-up command.
The new features allow you to give multimodal commands like, “Scan this QR code” or “Call this number,” making daily tasks easier. Additionally, real-time video assistance can help users in specific scenarios, such as coordinating an outfit. The glasses now support live translations in English, Spanish, French, and Italian, making them an even more powerful tool for day-to-day activities.
3. Orion: Meta’s Groundbreaking AR Glasses Prototype
One of the most futuristic announcements at Meta Connect 2024 was the reveal of Orion, a fully functional AR glasses prototype. Touted as Meta’s most advanced AR glasses to date, Orion offers a holographic interface that overlays digital objects and information onto your real-world surroundings, eliminating the need for a pass-through camera. The glasses use a neural interface that interprets hand gestures and wrist movements, allowing users to interact with holograms, check notifications, and even make video calls directly from their glasses.
Although Orion is still in the prototype phase, it demonstrates Meta’s vision for the future of wearable technology, where AR could eventually replace smartphones.
4. Celebrity Chatbots: Talk to Meta AI in Famous Voices
In a lighter, more interactive move, Meta announced that its AI assistant will now feature celebrity voices, allowing users to converse with AI versions of stars like Kristen Bell, John Cena, Judi Dench, and Awkwafina. This new addition aims to make user interactions with AI feel more personal and engaging.
During the live demo, Mark Zuckerberg showcased a seamless conversation with the AI assistant, demonstrating its ability to handle interruptions and respond naturally. This feature is expected to roll out soon across all Meta apps, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
5. AI-Driven Automatic Dubbing for Reels
Meta has added a new layer of accessibility to its content with the introduction of AI-powered automatic dubbing. This tool allows users to translate and dub Reels into other languages, while maintaining the original speaker’s voice and syncing the lip movements. The translation currently works for select creators' videos in English and Spanish, with plans to expand to more languages and content creators in the near future.
This feature demonstrates Meta’s commitment to bridging language barriers and making global content more accessible, enhancing user engagement across platforms.
Meta’s Vision for a Future Driven by AR and AI
Meta Connect 2024 gave us a clear look into how the company envisions the future, blending augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence into everyday life. Whether it’s making AR more accessible with the Meta Quest 3S or showcasing future technologies like Orion AR glasses, Meta is setting the pace for immersive experiences that feel both futuristic and practical.
As the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds blur, Meta is working on products that can make these experiences seamless, intuitive, and engaging. With more announcements surely to come in the next few years, it’s clear that Meta’s journey into AR and AI is only just beginning.
