Meta Connect 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal event for Meta AI innovations, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) technologies. As Meta prepares for its highly anticipated Connect Developer Conference, the company is expected to unveil a wide array of groundbreaking innovations, including Meta VR headsets, the latest developments in Meta LLaMA AI, and updates to Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. This year’s event could redefine how Horizon Worlds and the broader metaverse integrate AI-driven tools and immersive experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about Meta Connect 2024 and how it’s set to shape the future of augmented reality technology and VR gaming.
Key Highlights to Expect at Meta Connect 2024
Meta Connect 2024 is expected to be a showcase of Meta AI innovations and the latest advancements in VR and AR hardware. Below are the key highlights you can expect:
1. Meta Quest 3S VR Headset: The Future of Affordable VR
The Meta Quest 3S is anticipated to be one of the most exciting announcements at the event. This next-generation VR headset is expected to provide a more budget-friendly alternative to the Meta Quest 3, with leaks suggesting a price as low as $299.99. This lower-cost version will likely come with enhanced AR video passthrough capabilities, making it more accessible to mainstream consumers while addressing some of the limitations of the existing Meta VR headsets.
Meta is also working on the Meta Quest 4, slated for a 2026 release, and a high-end professional-grade headset, internally codenamed La Jolla, designed for spatial computing. However, it’s unclear if these models will be revealed at Meta Connect 2024.
2. Updates on Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and Orion AR Glasses
In addition to the Meta Quest 3S, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses are due for an upgrade. These stylish, futuristic glasses may gain new features such as Meta AI integration for voice commands, enabling a more advanced AI chatbot experience. This could transform the glasses into functional smart assistants, offering personalized responses based on Meta LLaMA AI.
Moreover, rumors suggest that Meta will introduce its Orion AR glasses, which could directly compete with Apple’s Vision Pro and Snap’s Spectacles. Orion AR glasses are expected to be a leap forward in augmented reality technology. We may get our first real look at this game-changing innovation during Meta Connect 2024.
3. AI-Driven Tools for Developers and Horizon Worlds Update
One of the most highly anticipated announcements revolves around Meta AI innovations and new AI-driven tools for developers. Meta recently decided to discontinue some of its custom AR filter tools, signaling a shift toward generative AI for more immersive AR experiences. These new tools could allow developers to create more dynamic content within Horizon Worlds, Meta’s flagship social metaverse platform.
Expect a major Horizon Worlds update at the event, with improvements in avatar customization, content creation tools, and social interaction features. These updates are crucial to Meta’s broader vision of a fully realized metaverse, where users can seamlessly interact in virtual and augmented spaces.
4. Meta LLaMA AI and the Future of Conversational AI
At the heart of Meta’s AI ambitions is its Meta LLaMA AI model, which will likely take center stage at Meta Connect 2024. This cutting-edge language model could introduce new AI conversational tools across platforms like WhatsApp and Messenger, offering users more intelligent and interactive experiences. As Meta AI innovations continue to evolve, expect groundbreaking updates that push the boundaries of conversational AI and immersive content creation.
Meta Connect 2024 Schedule and How to Watch
Meta Connect 2024 will take place on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, and conclude on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The event will kick off with a keynote presentation by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT. Following the keynote, a developer-focused session will delve deeper into Meta AI innovations and augmented reality technology at 2 pm ET / 11 am PT.
Here’s how you can watch the event:
- Meta Connect Website: The keynote will be live-streamed on the official Meta Connect website.
- Horizon Worlds: If you’re a Meta Quest user, you can watch the event in Horizon Worlds for an immersive viewing experience.
- Facebook Live: Meta will also host a live developer session on Facebook, providing insights into the technical aspects of the latest Meta AI and mixed reality developments.
What Meta Connect 2024 Means for the Future of VR Gaming and the Metaverse
Meta is making a concerted effort to focus on accessible VR hardware, as evidenced by the expected lower price point of the Meta Quest 3S. This strategy reflects Meta’s shift toward more consumer-friendly devices, as opposed to the more expensive, professional-grade headsets seen with competitors like Apple’s Vision Pro.
Meta’s vision for VR gaming is also evolving, as demonstrated by its latest app that allows users to play console games on VR headsets via HDMI. This innovation signifies a broader goal to merge traditional gaming with immersive VR experiences, potentially opening up new possibilities for VR gaming’s future.
Conclusion: Meta’s Ongoing Evolution in AI, VR, and Augmented Reality Technology
Meta Connect 2024 is set to be one of the most influential events for the future of Meta AI innovations, VR gaming, and augmented reality technology. Whether it’s the unveiling of the budget-friendly Meta Quest 3S, the enhanced Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, or the introduction of new AI-driven developer tools, Meta is clearly focused on expanding the possibilities of the metaverse.
With substantial updates in both hardware and software, Meta Connect 2024 could shape the future of immersive digital experiences. By pushing the limits of Meta VR headsets, Meta LLaMA AI, and the Horizon Worlds update, Meta is positioning itself as a leader in the next wave of mixed reality and AI innovations.
