Key Highlights from Meta Connect 2024: What You Need to Know

Meta has unveiled an exciting array of hardware and AI advancements at the recent Meta Connect event, highlighted by the new Quest 3S VR headset, enhanced Meta AI features, the latest Llama model, and a sneak peek at Orion augmented reality glasses. CEO Mark Zuckerberg debuted innovative features, including live translation between English and Spanish. Here’s a summary of the key announcements from Meta Connect:

Orion AR Glasses

Meta introduced the Orion augmented reality glasses, designed to resemble stylish everyday frames with advanced technology embedded. Utilizing Micro LED projectors, Orion projects images into your view through waveguides in the lenses. With generative AI capabilities akin to existing Ray-Ban smart glasses, Orion enhances visual experiences by displaying labels for real-world items, such as ingredients on a table. The glasses connect to a wireless computing puck and a gesture-responsive "neural wristband," though they are not yet available for purchase.

Quest 3S VR Headset

The new Quest 3S VR headset launches at the original price point of $299.99, matching the Quest 2. It boasts many features of the pricier Quest 3, including the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip and Touch Plus controllers. Cost savings arise from the absence of a depth sensor, lower-resolution screens, a narrower field of view, and a larger form factor compared to the Quest 3. As a result, Meta is streamlining its VR product lineup by discontinuing the Quest 2 and Quest Pro.

Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Updates

Meta's popular Ray-Ban smart glasses are receiving software enhancements, including a new Reminders feature to help manage daily tasks, such as grocery lists. Improved responsiveness in Meta AI is also on the way, alongside ongoing efforts to develop real-time speech translation. On the hardware side, new styles are being released, featuring transparent frames and a variety of transition lenses.

Meta AI-Generated Content

Soon, users will see Meta AI-generated content tailored to their interests in Facebook and Instagram feeds through a section called "Imagined for you." This feature can superimpose your face into whimsical scenarios, such as appearing in a video game or as an astronaut.

Celebrity AI Voices

Meta is expanding its celebrity chatbot initiative, integrating AI versions of various celebrities like Awkwafina, John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, Kristen Bell, and Dame Judi Dench. These AI voices will be accessible on Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook in the US.

Updated Llama Model

The release of a new Llama model features a significant upgrade: the ability to process visual inputs, aligning Meta with competitors. The new model is also designed for mobile, arriving in smaller packages.

These advancements showcase Meta's commitment to enhancing user experiences across platforms, establishing a future where AI and augmented reality play integral roles in daily life.