As reported by The Independent, Meta has unveiled their latest innovation in augmented reality technology with the introduction of their new prototype, Orion. These cutting-edge augmented reality glasses have the capability to transform the world into a computer screen, offering users a truly immersive experience.
At first glance, Orion appears to be a typical pair of glasses, albeit with slightly thicker frames and lenses that may appear unconventional. However, once worn, the lenses seamlessly transition into screens, projecting digital objects onto the real world.
This release comes alongside Meta's recent updates to their smart glasses, developed in partnership with Ray-Ban. These smart glasses, equipped with built-in cameras, speakers, and other advanced technology, provide users with a unique augmented reality experience.
During the Meta Connect event, the company touted Orion as potentially the most challenging consumer electronics device produced since the advent of the smartphone. Unlike previous AR devices, which have predominantly been in the form of headsets, such as Apple's Vision Pro, Orion represents a significant advancement by integrating breakthrough technologies to bring the same immersive experiences found in headsets to a pair of glasses.
Controlled through voice commands, eye movements, and hand gestures, Orion offers a seamless and intuitive user experience. Meta has announced plans to conduct prototype testing with their staff and select external audiences to gather feedback and improve their consumer AR glasses product line, with shipping expected to commence in the near future.
This announcement was just one of many unveilings at the Meta Connect event, with the company also introducing a new version of its Meta Quest headset and confirming the addition of voice interaction to its Meta AI tools. Furthermore, Meta announced the release of new versions of its open-source AI models, Llama 3.2.
Industry expert Mike Proulx, Vice President Research Director at analyst firm Forrester, highlighted the potential impact of Orion, describing it as potentially "revolutionary" for the sector. Proulx emphasized the significance of Meta's focus on AI and glasses, predicting that VR headsets may not achieve mainstream adoption due to their cumbersome nature, while smart glasses have the potential to significantly impact consumers' interactions with brands.
“There was a stark contrast in Mark Zuckerberg’s excitement when he talked about AI and glasses versus when he talked about Meta Quest,” he said.
“It’s clear that Meta‘s future is AI and glasses. VR headsets, despite Meta‘s assertion, won’t go mainstream. They’re too cumbersome and people can only tolerate them in short bursts.
Glasses, however, put computing power directly into a common and familiar form factor. As the smart tech behind these glasses mature, they have the potential to disrupt everyday consumers’ interactions with brands.”
“Meta‘s Orion holographic prototype sets the stage for a future where a revolutionary 3D computing platform is within reach and can actually be useful to the everyday consumer.”
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