The digital realm buzzed with anticipation as Meta, once known as Facebook, unveiled its latest innovations at the third virtual event since its iconic rebrand in 2021. With CEO Mark Zuckerberg at the helm, the tech behemoth set forth its vision for a future melded with Mixed Reality, Gaming, and AI. Here’s a snapshot of the key takeaways from Meta Connect 2023.
The Arrival of Quest 3
After lots of speculation following Apple’s recent release of the Vision Pro, the Meta Quest 3 was launched at the virtual event. The standalone, mixed-reality headset boasts a number of key features that could signal it as Apple Vision Pro’s main competitor, but its retail price point of $500USD removes it entirely from the conversation (compared to Apple’s $3500).
The crown jewel of Quest 3 is undeniably its mixed-reality prowess. Users can dive into an enthralling digital universe while maintaining a lucid perspective of their immediate real-world environment. Powering this feat is the Snapdragon XR2 Gen Processor, which elevates graphical performance to unseen levels in Meta’s lineup. As Zuckerberg eloquently put it, the device “allows you to blend physical and digital worlds together.”
For use cases on how Aequilibrium have successfully blended the physical and digital worlds for clients like WSECU and DUCA, click here.
The introduction of Meta AI
AI has been the topic of conversation at nearly every technology event, with enthusiasts both excited and fearful of its capabilities. The firm’s newest virtual assistant, Meta AI, features a slew of beneficial characteristics that seem to help users more than hinder. With distinct personalities, users are able to text Meta AI through Meta apps like Whatsapp, Messenger, and soon Quest 3. By putting a face and chatroom to Meta AI, it removes some of the dehumanization so closely associated with AI technology.
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Collaboration
Available for purchase online and in retail stores, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses collection has been augmented with newer technology since its predecessor’s release in 2021. With a built-in audio system, ultra-wide front-facing camera, and charging case, users can record what they’re seeing right in real time and send it to their friends.
The pièce de résistance? Meta has incorporated their Meta AI tool into the glasses, offering wearers the opportunity to execute actions with just the voice command “Hey Meta”. The virtual assistant offers a touch-free, on-the-go experience for users, much like Siri. Hands-free commands are shaping up to be a huge technological asset, as Apple’s Vision Pro has included hand-gesturing as an action command in its virtual world.
In Reflection
More to come as Meta releases more information about its upcoming technology. We’re looking forward to how all of these items can impact our workflow, especially the introduction of the Quest 3.
Meta’s forward thrust into mixed reality, gaming, and AI underscores the boundless possibilities of technological convergence.
As we at Aequilibrium explore these frontiers, we remain committed to harnessing the best of these innovations to elevate experiences for our partners and users. Join us on this exhilarating journey into the future.
