Everything Announced at Meta Connect 2024: Orion AR Glasses, Quest 3S, AI Updates, & More

At its annual Connect 2024 event, Meta unveiled a suite of new hardware and software updates, further cementing its focus on augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI).
From the introduction of cutting-edge AR glasses to updates in VR headsets, Meta is pushing the boundaries of immersive technology. Here's a breakdown of everything that was announced.

Orion AR Glasses: Meta's Bold Step into the Future

One of the most exciting announcements at the event was the introduction of Orion AR glasses. These prototype glasses are designed to bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds, offering users a fully immersive experience. Featuring a lightweight design and advanced technology, Orion boasts hand-tracking, eye-tracking, and even a neural interface that allows users to interact with the virtual world through subtle gestures and eye movements.

With a 70-degree holographic field of view and real-time AI-powered assistance, the Orion glasses are poised to become a game-changer. Although still in the prototype stage, CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that these glasses represent a long-term vision for the future of augmented reality. However, a consumer release is still a way off.

Meta Quest 3S: A More Affordable VR Experience

Meta also announced the Quest 3S, a budget-friendly version of its high-end Quest 3 VR headset. Starting at $299 for the 128GB model and $399 for the 256GB model, the Quest 3S maintains the core features of its predecessor while offering a more accessible price point.

Designed with Fresnel lenses, which provide a slightly narrower field of view, the Quest 3S still delivers a strong mixed-reality experience. Users can engage in VR apps, games, and mixed-reality features that blend the digital and physical environments. The Quest 3S is set to launch on October 15, and Meta is phasing out its older Quest 2 and Quest Pro models by the end of the year.

Meta AI Integration: Chat with AI Across Platforms

Meta AI is expanding its capabilities with the introduction of vocal interactions. Users will now be able to ask questions and chat with Meta AI via Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, receiving simulated vocal responses in return. This feature comes with multiple voice options, including those of celebrities like Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, and Awkwafina.

Meta AI already has 500 million users, and this new voice feature is set to roll out across platforms soon, further integrating AI into everyday conversations.

Llama 3.2 AI Model: Multimodal and Multilingual

Meta also introduced the Llama 3.2 AI model, which takes multimodal capabilities to a new level. With the ability to interpret charts, caption images, and even identify objects in pictures, Llama 3.2 can handle a variety of tasks based on simple descriptions. For example, the AI can analyze a graph and highlight key insights or look at a map and estimate travel times.

However, European users won't have access to Llama 3.2 due to the region's regulatory restrictions. Features like image analysis will be disabled in the EU, limiting some of the model's impressive capabilities.

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: AI Gets Integrated

Meta also gave an update on its collaboration with Ray-Ban, introducing new smart glasses that incorporate real-time AI features. These glasses will soon be able to process live video and provide users with real-time information about what they're seeing. Imagine looking at a monument and getting historical facts displayed in real-time, or asking for language translations as you walk through a foreign city.

In addition to AI video capabilities, the Ray-Ban Meta glasses will feature live language translation between English, French, Italian, and Spanish. They will also integrate with music apps like Amazon Music and Audible, making them more versatile than ever.

Meta Avatars: More Customization and AI-Powered Interactions

In its quest to deepen its metaverse offerings, Meta is rolling out major updates to its avatar system. Starting October 1, users will have more options for customizing their digital selves, from body types to facial features. Meta also plans to integrate generative AI, allowing users to create avatars based on text prompts, further enhancing personalization in virtual spaces.

Meta's vision for avatars extends beyond just appearance. In 2025, developers will be able to create AI-powered non-player characters (NPCs) in Horizon Worlds, allowing for richer interactions in virtual environments.

More Immersive Games

Meta also showcased new VR gaming experiences coming to the Quest ecosystem. Leading the announcements was Batman: Arkham Shadow, a highly anticipated release launching on October 22, bundled with new Quest 3 and Quest 3S purchases until April next year.

Other notable game announcements included Alien: Rogue Incursion, a Xenomorph-filled horror game, and Arizona Sunshine, a remake of the classic zombie shooter. And, in a surprise twist, the popular puzzle game Wordle will soon be available in VR, offering a free-to-play experience without requiring a New York Times subscription.

Meta's Vision for the Future of AR and VR

The overarching theme of Meta Connect 2024 was the integration of AR, VR, and AI into everyday life. With products like the Orion AR glasses, Quest 3S, and Ray-Ban Meta glasses, Meta aims to create immersive, accessible technology for all. AI will play a crucial role in this ecosystem, with advancements like Meta AI and Llama 3.2 enabling smarter, more interactive experiences.