Meta has garnered quite a lot of popularity among the augmented reality/virtual reality headsets recently, especially after the introduction of Apple Vision Pro. Meta is now gearing up for the biggest event of the year, Meta Connect 2024. The social media giant is now expected to release a lineup of new hardware products that will be built on AR/VR framework. Meta Connect 2024 will be happening on September 25 and it will be live streamed on platforms like Facebook, Meta.


The social media giant is likely to announce the latest range of smart wearable devices, infused with AI at the event.


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Meta Connect 2024: What All Can We Expect?


Snap recently unveiled AR glasses and Meta is expected to release something along the same lines at the event. According to leaks, Meta's upcoming AR glasses, known internally as Orion AR glasses, are expected to offer an immersive augmented reality experience. Reports suggest that these glasses will be a standalone device, untethered from any external hardware. Meta has also extended its long-term partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the makers of the Ray-Ban brand, and Luxottica is expected to manufacture the Orion AR glasses.


In terms of features, Meta’s Orion AR glasses are rumored to offer functionality similar to the Meta Quest, with each eye potentially equipped with holographic displays. The glasses are anticipated to be lightweight and user-friendly, making them ideal for outdoor use. They are also expected to have built-in cameras, microphones, and AI-driven features, further enhancing the AR experience.


In a recent post on Threads, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg hinted at the upcoming launch of Meta's first AR glasses, likely to be introduced during the Meta Connect 2024 event. However, with all these cutting-edge technologies, it’s anticipated that the Orion AR glasses may come with a premium price tag.


Meta VR Headset V. Apple Vision Pro: Price


The Meta Quest 3 is already considered a more affordable option compared to the Apple Vision Pro, but its $499.99 price tag still places it in the higher price range for VR headsets. Rumors suggest that Meta is developing a more budget-friendly version, potentially called the Quest 3S, which could be priced around $300. This new model may replace the Quest 2, which originally launched in 2020.


Although the Quest 3S is expected to be more affordable, it will likely provide a similar virtual reality experience. However, its build quality and hardware specs may not match the more advanced features of the Quest 3, which is set to remain Meta’s flagship consumer VR headset. Leaked information suggests the Quest 3S could feature 128 GB of internal storage.


Meta Ray Ban Glasses Enhanced


At the upcoming Connect 2024 event, Meta is also likely to reveal an upgraded version of its Meta-Rayban smart glasses. The new model may feature a refreshed design, enhanced battery life, better audio quality, and new AI capabilities. Additionally, these smart glasses could become available in more regions following the event.


Beyond hardware announcements, Meta is expected to introduce new updates for its social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. There’s also speculation that the company will present an enhanced version of its open-source large language model, Llama 3.1. These could be among the key highlights of the event.