Meta Connect 2024: Unveiling Innovations in AI and the Metaverse
Meta Connect 2024, the highly anticipated developer-focused event, featured a keynote address by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who unveiled a range of innovative hardware and software that support Meta’s key objectives: advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and expanding the metaverse. Highlights included new Quest headsets, updates to the Meta Llama AI model, and a prototype of fully augmented reality (AR) glasses.
The event commenced live at 10 a.m. PT on Wednesday, September 25. For those curious to catch up on the announcements, the full event is archived on Meta Connect’s official site and the Meta developer Facebook page. Additionally, you can explore Horizon Worlds using your Meta Quest headset for a fully immersive experience.
Stay tuned as we compile all the major announcements and updates from Meta Connect 2024, with continual updates throughout the event and beyond to include reactions and insights.
Meta Introduces Orion: A Leap into Holographic AR Glasses
In a compelling surprise reveal, Zuckerberg introduced Orion, hailed as Meta’s “first consumer full holographic AR glasses.” While they won't be available for consumers just yet, Orion boasts lightweight design, compatibility with hand and eye tracking, and even a neural interface. Early testers, including renowned figures like Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, have provided enthusiastic feedback on this advanced technology. For full coverage of this exciting announcement and what it means for Meta's AR ambitions, click here.
The Launch of Quest 3S Headset at $299
Meta confirmed the highly anticipated Quest 3S during the event, following a series of pre-event leaks. This new headset, priced at $299 for the 128GB model and $399 for the 256GB version, is a more affordable alternative to the Quest 3, which will see its price drop from $649 to $499. The fully wireless Quest 3S is compatible with the extensive library of Quest games and apps, but it particularly emphasizes enhanced mixed-reality features. Early impressions of the Quest 3S can be found here, ahead of its shipping date on October 15.
Discontinuation of Quest 2 and Quest Pro
“With the introduction of Quest 3S, we are officially phasing out sales of the Quest 2 and Quest Pro,” Meta announced. Remaining stock will be available until the end of the year or until supplies run out.
Meta AI: A New Vocal Experience
Meta AI is evolving with the introduction of vocal interactions. Users will now be able to ask questions and engage in conversation with Meta AI through platforms like Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, receiving vocal responses in return. The assistant will offer multiple voice options, including those of popular celebrities like Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, Awkwafina, Kristen Bell, and Keegan-Michael Key.
Meta Releases Llama 3.2 AI Model
The multilingual Llama AI family has reached version 3.2, bringing multimodal capabilities to several models. Llama 3.2 11B and 90B can interpret charts and graphs, generate image captions, and identify objects based on simple descriptions. However, European users will be unable to access these features due to EU regulations, limiting some functionalities available elsewhere.
Enhanced Features for Ray-Ban’s Meta Sunglasses
Ray-Ban’s Meta smart glasses received significant updates, including real-time AI video processing that allows users to ask questions based on their surrounding environment. New features include smartphone-like reminders, live language translation in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, plus integration with music streaming services such as Amazon Music and Audible.
Zuckerberg’s Fashion Statement
During Meta Connect, Zuckerberg's choice of attire sparked curiosity, featuring the phrase “Act Zuck aut nihil,” which translates from Latin as “either Zuck or nothing,” a nod to Roman Emperor Julius Caesar and emphasizing his evolving persona.
Meta AI Explores Visual Search
In a feature reminiscent of tech giants like OpenAI and Google, Meta demonstrated an AI that responds to image prompts and edits photos based on user feedback. This functionality will also allow for easy sharing to Instagram Stories.
More AI Content in Your Facebook Feed
On Facebook, AI-generated content is becoming more prominent. Meta is introducing features that curate engaging AI-created content based on user preferences, enhancing the overall engagement experience.
Testing Translated and Dubbed Content for Creators
Meta announced a new initiative to translate and dub creator content using AI, syncing the lip movements to make translations more seamless. This feature is currently in testing, focusing on videos from creators in the U.S. and Latin America, particularly for English and Spanish translations.
Engaging Developers at Meta Connect
Amidst AI and hardware innovations, Meta emphasized the importance of connecting with its developer community. New support for Android apps on the Quest platform and enhanced capabilities for 3D and spatial apps were highlighted to encourage developer participation.
New Game Announcements for the Quest Ecosystem
Meta Connect 2024 showcased exciting game reveals for the Quest ecosystem, including "Batman: Arkham Shadow," launching October 22 and bundled with new Quest 3 and 3S purchases. Other notable announcements featured "Alien: Rogue Incursion" and a free VR version of the popular game "Wordle," available without a New York Times subscription.
Stay updated as we continue to monitor the developments announced at Meta Connect 2024.
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