September 26, 2024
Meta Connect 2024, the annual developer-focused event, highlighted Meta's most ambitious projects in artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse. Known for unveiling advanced hardware and software, the event showcased new innovations aimed at transforming digital interaction. This year's highlights included advances in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and AI-powered solutions, as Meta strives to expand the possibilities of immersive technology.
During the keynote, CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared several major updates, including the Quest 3S headset, Orion AR glasses, and significant improvements to Meta AI. The event was streamed live at 10:00 a.m. PT, September 25, and was available on Meta's platforms, offering an immersive experience through the Meta Quest headset. Below are the key announcements and developments from Meta Connect 2024.
Meta Unveils Orion AR Glasses
One of the most notable announcements was the unveiling of Orion, Meta’s augmented reality headset, billed as the most advanced in the world. The device, which is still in development, includes features such as hand and eye tracking and a neural interface, making it an integral part of Meta’s vision for the future of augmented reality technology. Early testers, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, have already had the chance to try out the device, which is expected to be an important part of Meta’s long-term augmented reality strategy.
Meta Quest 3S Headset Launches for $299
Meta has launched the Quest 3S, a more affordable alternative to the Quest 3. The 128GB version is priced at $299, while the 256GB model costs $399. This wireless headset is compatible with the Quest app and existing game library. Additionally, Meta has reduced the price of the Quest 3 from $649 to $499. With enhanced mixed reality features, the Quest 3S will officially launch on October 15, 2024.
Discontinuation of Quest 2 and Quest Pro
Due to the launch of Quest 3S, Meta has decided to discontinue the Quest 2 and Quest Pro models. Sales of these headsets will continue until the end of 2024 or until the remaining stock is exhausted.
Meta AI Introduces New Vocal Features
Meta AI has taken a major step forward by allowing users to interact with its assistant using voice commands on platforms such as Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. The assistant will provide responses using simulated voices, including celebrity options such as Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, and Kristen Bell. This feature adds to Meta AI’s growth as it now supports over 500 million users worldwide, marking a significant milestone for the company.
Llama 3.2 AI Model Released
Meta has introduced the latest version of its Llama AI model, Llama 3.2, which now features multimodal capabilities. The Llama 3.2 models, both the 11B and 90B, can interpret graphs, maps and images, offering real-time insights from a variety of inputs. However, due to EU regulations, some features, such as image analysis, are not available in Europe.
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Receive Upgrades
Meta has launched major upgrades to its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which now include real-time AI video processing. Users can ask questions about what they see on the glasses as it happens. Additionally, the glasses support live language translation and are fully integrated with music streaming services like Amazon Music, Audible, and iHeart Radio.
Meta AI Visual Search and Photo Editing Features
Meta has added new visual search capabilities to its AI ecosystem, allowing users to engage with images more effectively. AI can now perform image-based searches, edit photos based on user input, and share these edits directly to Instagram Stories. These improvements are part of Meta’s ongoing initiative to boost user engagement through AI-powered tools.
AI-Generated Content in Facebook Feeds
Facebook has been increasingly adding AI-generated content to users’ feeds. The platform now offers AI-generated post suggestions that align with users’ interests to improve engagement. This strategy is part of Meta’s broader plan to integrate AI more fully into its social media platforms.
AI-Translated and Dubbed Content for Creators
Meta is currently testing an AI tool that translates and dubs creators’ content, ensuring that lip movements are synchronized with the translated audio. This feature is available to creators in the United States and Latin America and allows translations between English and Spanish. The goal of this new tool is to improve the accessibility of content in different languages.
New Games Announced for Quest
Meta Connect 2024 introduced a variety of exciting new gaming experiences for the Quest ecosystem, most notably the upcoming release of Batman: Arkham Shadow on October 22, 2024. This game will be included with the purchase of the new Quest 3 and 3S headsets. Other notable titles include Alien: Rogue Incursion, a horror-themed experience, and a VR adaptation of Wordle, which will be available to play for free without a subscription.
Showcasing the latest advancements in AI, augmented reality and virtual reality, Meta Connect 2024 highlighted the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of immersive technology and influencing the future of digital experiences.
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