Meta Connect 2024, held on September 25, 2024, showcased Meta’s latest advancements in AI and augmented reality (AR) as CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced groundbreaking hardware and software. The event underscored Meta’s dual focus on AI innovation and the immersive metaverse, unveiling cutting-edge technology such as the Orion AR glasses, Quest 3S headset, Meta AI upgrades, and new features for Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
Orion AR Glasses: Meta’s Leap into the Future of Augmented Reality
In a dramatic reveal, Mark Zuckerberg introduced Orion, described as “the most advanced glasses the world has ever seen.” These futuristic AR glasses are designed to be Meta’s first consumer-facing, fully holographic AR solution. Although still in the prototype phase, Orion promises to be a lightweight device featuring hand and eye-tracking capabilities, as well as a neural interface. With high-profile early testers like Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Orion sets the stage for Meta’s AR dominance.
Despite the exciting promise, Orion is still years away from a public release. However, it offers a glimpse into Meta’s vision for the future, where AR glasses could potentially replace smartphones as the go-to personal tech device.
Meta Quest 3S: Affordable Immersive Experiences
The Meta Quest 3S was officially announced at Meta Connect 2024, following several pre-event leaks. Starting at $299 for the 128GB version and $399 for the 256GB, the Quest 3S offers a more affordable alternative to the previously released Quest 3. Designed to deliver immersive experiences with full wireless functionality, the 3S headset supports Meta’s extensive library of apps and games.
With a keen emphasis on mixed-reality features, the Quest 3S promises users enhanced engagement in both virtual and real-world environments. The official launch date for the Quest 3S is set for October 15, 2024. As part of this new rollout, Meta also announced the discontinuation of the Quest 2 and Quest Pro, with remaining stock expected to be sold through the end of the year.
Meta AI Upgrades: Llama 3.2 and More Interactive Features
Meta’s advancements in AI took center stage with the introduction of Llama 3.2, a multimodal AI model available in both 11B and 90B versions. These models can interpret complex data, such as graphs and maps, and even analyze images with descriptive prompts. Users can now interact with Meta AI across platforms like Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram, receiving responses through new voice-enabled features. This voice interaction comes with several customizable options, including celebrity voices like John Cena, Awkwafina, Kristen Bell, and Dame Judi Dench.
Meta AI’s reach now extends to 500 million users, signifying its growing role in daily interactions. However, some of these cutting-edge AI tools, particularly in image analysis, are restricted in Europe due to the EU’s regulatory framework.
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: Real-Time AI Video and More
Meta’s partnership with Ray-Ban continues to evolve, with the latest update bringing real-time AI video processing to their smart glasses. These glasses now offer users the ability to ask questions about their surroundings, with AI delivering insights based on what the glasses capture. Other new features include a smartphone-like reminder system, live language translation (currently supporting English, French, Italian, and Spanish), and seamless integration with popular streaming apps such as Amazon Music, Audible, and iHeart Radio.
These smart glasses represent Meta’s push to make wearable technology a mainstream consumer device, offering a glimpse into the future where AR and AI blend seamlessly with daily life.
More AI in Facebook Feeds and Translated Content for Creators
Announced at #MetaConnect2024, Meta AI's new celebrity voices let you ask questions to AI versions of Dame Judi Dench, Awkwafina, Keegan-Michael Key, John Cenna, and Kristen Bell. pic.twitter.com/LtlCDeFc8c
— TechCrunch (@TechCrunch) September 25, 2024Meta Connect also revealed further integration of AI within Facebook. Users can expect to see more AI-generated content in their feeds, tailored to their interests and engagement patterns. Additionally, Meta is testing AI translation tools to offer creators dubbed content in different languages, with lip-syncing technology ensuring that translations are seamlessly integrated. This feature is currently limited to English and Spanish translations, with broader rollout plans likely in the future.
In a live demo, Zuckerberg interviewed an AI version of Don Allen Stevenson III, a popular creator, alongside the real Stevenson, showcasing Meta’s AI capabilities in a creative and surreal moment on stage.
Meta’s Developer Push: Android App Support and VR Gaming Expansions
While hardware announcements grabbed headlines, Meta Connect 2024 also focused on developers, especially as Meta aims to build a more robust Quest app store. The company introduced new support for Android apps on the Quest platform, along with tools for developing 3D and spatial apps.
The event also highlighted several upcoming gaming experiences for Quest, led by the highly anticipated Batman: Arkham Shadow, set for release on October 22. Other notable releases include Alien: Rogue Incursion, a horror game packed with Xenomorphs, and a remake of the zombie shooter Arizona Sunshine. A surprise announcement was the VR version of Wordle, which will be free to play without a New York Times subscription.
Conclusion: Meta’s Vision for the Future of AI and AR
Meta Connect 2024 solidified the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI and AR, with innovations like the Orion AR glasses and Quest 3S headset leading the charge. From real-time AI video processing in Ray-Ban smart glasses to expanded AI functionality across platforms, Meta continues to position itself at the forefront of technological evolution. As these tools and experiences roll out in the coming months, Meta’s vision for a more immersive, AI-driven future becomes increasingly tangible.
For those eager to dive deeper into the future of AI, AR, and VR, Meta Connect 2024 is available for replay on Meta’s website and Horizon Worlds.
