Meta Connect is just around the corner and anticipation is building as Mark Zuckerberg’s company gears up for the big event on September 28th. Each year, this event captures the attention of mainstream audiences worldwide, with groundbreaking announcements that keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
To dive deeper into what to expect at Connect 2024, XR Today sat down with Frank Furnari, the CEO and Founder of ARuVR. ARuVR is a platform that revolutionizes immersive training content creation and distribution, making it easy to design customized workplace solutions without the need for any coding.
Furnari revealed that while ARuVR is compatible with various hardware, they have a strong partnership with Meta. Drawing from this collaboration, Furnari shared insights on the potential updates that could be unveiled at Connect 2024.
Quest 3S Predictions
According to Furnari, Meta already offers a range of mid-range and high-end MR devices like the Quest 3 and Quest Pro, which boast impressive features and capabilities. However, he pointed out that some users may not fully utilize all these features, creating a gap for an entry-level MR headset with a sleek design.
“In some cases, the current devices may be too advanced, similar to giving a Ferrari to a novice driver,” Furnari commented. The upcoming Quest 3S is designed for beginner XR enthusiasts in both enterprise and consumer settings.
He further explained:
“By introducing a more affordable XR headset, Meta aims to tackle key industry challenges such as accessibility and affordability. This move will bridge the gap between high-end and entry-level devices, opening up advanced XR technology to a wider audience.”
With a consumer-friendly MR device in the works, Meta hopes to replicate the success of the Quest 2 in bringing VR to mainstream audiences.
Despite consumer VR outshining MR in terms of adoption, Furnari believes that the Quest 3S can revolutionize the landscape by offering enhanced experiences in gaming, entertainment, and social interactions at a lower cost, making them more appealing to the masses.
On the enterprise front, Furnari highlighted how a cost-effective XR device like the Quest 3S can enable businesses to implement large-scale applications such as training or remote collaborations without hefty investments.
This upcoming device is poised to democratize XR technology across consumer and enterprise markets and drive widespread adoption.
What is in Store for Meta’s Next-Gen Smart Glasses?
The upcoming AR Smart Glasses from Meta have been dubbed as “ground-breaking” by Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth.
Following the success of the Meta Ray Ban Stories lite AR smart glasses, Meta recently acquired a stake in parent company EssilorLuxottica and inked a long-term partnership to enhance the product further.
Furnari noted the unexpected success of the Meta Ray Ban smart glasses and predicted that the upcoming high-fidelity AR technology combined with advanced AI engines will result in a cutting-edge device.
Emphasizing the role of AI in Meta’s AR smart glasses roadmap, Furnari stated, “AI is the missing piece for AR glasses.” With AI integration, smart glasses navigation will become more intuitive, paving the way for enhanced functionalities like voice commands and hand tracking.
“The presence of AI engines will simplify usability and expand applications beyond the current capabilities,” Furnari added.
While specifics about the AR smart glasses are scarce prior to the Connect event, Furnari is optimistic that the blend of top-tier AR technology, AI enhancements, and innovative design will propel these devices into a bright future.
The Importance of XR R&D via Major Technology Vendors
Meta Connect 2024 holds significant importance for the XR industry, particularly due to Mark Zuckerberg’s substantial investments in the field.
As one of the wealthiest individuals globally, Zuckerberg’s focus on consumer XR devices reflects his ambition to capitalize on the rising trend of XR ubiquity. To establish Meta as a leading player in both enterprise and consumer markets, the company must stay at the forefront of research and development, offering devices that boast cutting-edge features at affordable prices.
Other tech giants like Apple, Samsung, LG, and Sony are also investing heavily in XR, each aiming to carve out a prominent position in the market. The competition among these major players signifies their influence on shaping the XR landscape.
Furnari underscored the pivotal role that large corporations play in driving innovation, setting industry standards, and expanding the XR ecosystem through cost-effective devices and ecosystem development.
He elaborated:
“These companies not only advance technology but also pave the way for a more immersive and interconnected future through their R&D investments, marketing strategies, and sales efforts.”
With their substantial resources, these tech giants are instrumental in propelling the XR market forward and driving widespread adoption.
Conclusion
As Meta Connect 2024 approaches, the XR industry is abuzz with excitement and anticipation. With the potential unveiling of the Quest 3S, next-gen AR Smart Glasses, and the influence of major tech vendors, this event promises to be a game-changer in the world of extended reality.
Mark Zuckerberg’s ambitious push towards XR ubiquity, coupled with the innovative offerings from Meta and other industry giants, sets the stage for a transformative future where immersive technologies become more accessible and interconnected than ever before. With the XR market evolving rapidly, Meta Connect aims to showcase the latest advancements that will shape the way we interact with the digital world.
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