In a recent Meta Connect 2023 keynote, Meta (formerly known as Facebook) announced new updates regarding its Meta Quest 3 headset, as well as its collaboration with Ray-Ban on smart glasses. The Meta Quest 3 is a mixed reality headset that utilizes Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, offering improved performance compared to its predecessor, the Quest 2. The headset features full-color passthrough and the ability to blend augmented reality elements into the physical environment. It also includes revamped controllers with haptic feedback and new sensors for tracking. Alongside the Quest 3, Meta announced support for Xbox Cloud Gaming and the availability of Microsoft 365 apps on the headset, enhancing its capabilities for both work and play. Pre-orders for the Meta Quest 3 are now open, starting at $500.
In addition to the Quest 3, Meta introduced its collaboration with Ray-Ban to create the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. These glasses offer improved specifications, such as a 12MP wide-angle camera and 32GB of storage for video recording. The glasses also feature enhanced audio capabilities with five microphones, louder speakers, and reduced noise leakage. Pre-orders for the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have opened, with prices starting at $299.
Furthermore, Meta announced several updates in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The company is introducing AI chatbot personalities, voiced by celebrities, available on platforms like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram. They also unveiled generative AI image editing for Instagram, allowing users to transform images into different artistic styles, and a green screen feature similar to YouTube’s. AI-generated stickers will soon be added to Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook Stories. These AI updates showcase Meta’s continued focus on integrating AI technology into its platforms and hardware.
Overall, Meta’s keynote highlighted its advancements in mixed reality, smart glasses, and AI technology, offering users new and innovative ways to engage with their digital surroundings.