Meta Connect 2024: What to Expect – Affordable Quest 3, AR Glasses, and More

Meta Connect 2024 is poised to be one of the most anticipated tech events of the year, with expectations running high for a slew of new announcements. Scheduled for September 25-26, the event will feature a virtual conference showcasing advancements in artificial intelligence, mixed-reality headsets, and smart glasses. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, will be at the helm, sharing the company’s vision for AI and the metaverse. The event promises to display technologies that could shape the future, making it a must-watch for tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

One of the most talked-about topics leading up to Meta Connect 2024 is the expected unveiling of a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3 headset. This new headset, rumored to be called the Quest 3s, aims to offer a budget-friendly option for consumers without compromising on performance. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Quest 3s will be priced between $300 and $400, significantly lower than the current Quest 3, which retails for $499.99. This price reduction could be achieved by selling the headset separately from the controllers, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

The Quest 3s is expected to have similar performance capabilities to the Quest 3 but with a different design. Leaked images suggest that the headset may have been accidentally revealed through a mistake in the Horizon store. While little is known about the exact specifications, it is presumed that the Quest 3s will incorporate a mix of components from both the Quest 3 and Quest 2. One of the standout features of the new headset is its reliance on hand-tracking for control, similar to Apple’s Vision Pro. This means that the Quest 3s could function more as a computing device rather than a gaming console, although many games can still be played using hand-tracking.

In addition to the Quest 3s, Meta is also expected to unveil a preview of its in-development augmented reality (AR) smart glasses. Codenamed Orion, these AR glasses are anticipated to showcase Meta’s long-term vision for computing. Unlike previous smart glasses developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban, Orion is expected to feature built-in speakers, a camera, and AI capabilities. The AR glasses could potentially revolutionize how we interact with digital information, blending the physical and digital worlds seamlessly. Gurman believes that Meta is ahead of Apple in creating lightweight AR glasses, adding another layer of excitement to the upcoming event.

Meta Connect 2024 will also serve as a platform to showcase new AI software and enhancements to existing products. The event page indicates that there will be sessions for deeper discussions on topics such as mixed reality and AI, providing valuable insights for developers and tech enthusiasts. With new AAA games coming to the platform, Meta is poised to make a significant push in the VR/AR market in the second half of this year. The introduction of new colors and styles for the Ray-Bans, along with a prototype of the AR glasses, further underscores Meta’s commitment to innovation.

Another intriguing aspect of the event is the potential convergence between the augmented reality glasses and the mixed-reality headset. This convergence could lead to a unified platform that leverages the strengths of both devices, offering users a more comprehensive and immersive experience. The idea of integrating AR and VR capabilities into a single device could open up new possibilities for both personal and professional use, from gaming and entertainment to remote work and virtual meetings.

The upcoming Meta Connect conference is not just about hardware; it’s also about the software that powers these devices. Meta is expected to introduce new AI-driven features that enhance user experience and functionality. These features could include advanced hand-tracking algorithms, improved spatial computing capabilities, and more intuitive user interfaces. The focus on AI highlights Meta’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of mixed reality and augmented reality.

In the lead-up to Meta Connect 2024, there has been much speculation about what the new Quest 3s headset might not include. While the exact details remain under wraps, some analysts believe that the headset may lack certain high-end features found in the Quest Pro. This could be a strategic move to keep costs down and make the device more accessible to a wider audience. However, it’s also possible that Meta has some surprises in store that will defy these expectations.

One of the key challenges for Meta will be to balance affordability with performance. The Quest 3s aims to be a budget-friendly option, but it must still deliver a compelling VR experience to attract consumers. Hand-tracking technology, while innovative, may not be enough to satisfy hardcore gamers who prefer traditional controllers. To address this, Meta may offer additional controllers as optional accessories, allowing users to customize their setup based on their preferences and needs.

Meta’s focus on AR and VR extends beyond just hardware. The company is also investing heavily in content and software development to create a rich ecosystem for its devices. This includes partnerships with game developers, content creators, and other tech companies to bring a diverse range of experiences to the platform. By fostering a vibrant community of developers and users, Meta aims to establish itself as a leader in the emerging metaverse.

As we look forward to Meta Connect 2024, it’s clear that the event will be a pivotal moment for the company. With new hardware announcements, software updates, and a glimpse into the future of AR and VR, the conference promises to be a showcase of innovation and technological prowess. Whether you’re a developer, a tech enthusiast, or just curious about the future of computing, Meta Connect 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss.

In summary, Meta Connect 2024 is set to be a landmark event in the tech world. The anticipated announcements of the affordable Quest 3s headset and the Orion AR glasses are just the tip of the iceberg. With a focus on AI, mixed reality, and augmented reality, Meta is positioning itself at the forefront of the next wave of technological innovation. As we await the official announcements, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, making Meta Connect 2024 a must-watch event for anyone interested in the future of technology.