Meta has unveiled a series of updates to the Ray-Ban smart glasses, marking a leap in wearable technology. During the recent Meta Connect 2024 event, CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased the glasses' new capabilities, which include real-time AI video processing and live language translation. The enhancements are designed to merge the convenience of smartphone features with the innovative design of wearable devices, thereby enriching the overall user experience.
Enhanced Interaction with Real-Time AI Video
In an accompanying blog post, Meta explains the Ray-Ban Meta glasses have been upgraded to feature real-time AI video processing. This allows wearers to interact with their environment in an unprecedented way, asking questions and receiving instant verbal feedback from the integrated Meta AI.
Meta points out this is a notable advancement from the previous version, which was limited to capturing static images and providing information based on those visuals. The addition of video processing is anticipated to facilitate a more intuitive and fluid user interaction. In an effort to foster global communication, the new Ray-Ban Meta glasses now support live language translation.
The feature empowers English-speaking users to effortlessly converse with speakers of French, Italian, and Spanish, with the glasses providing instantaneous translation. With the function the AI breaks down language barriers and open up new avenues for international dialogue and connection.
Smartphone-Like Features for Enhanced Usability
Further bridging the gap between traditional eyewear and smart technology, Meta has integrated additional smartphone-esque features into the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. These include the ability to scan QR codes and phone numbers, which then prompt the corresponding action on the user's smartphone.
The glasses also offer a reminder feature, enabling the storage of visual information for future reference. Moreover, the integration with popular audio services like Amazon Music, Audible, and iHeartRadio allows users to enjoy their favorite audio content directly through the glasses' built-in speakers.
Addressing the need for comfort and adaptability in varying lighting conditions, the Ray-Ban Meta glasses will now come equipped with Transitions lenses. The smart lenses automatically adjust their tint based on the ambient light, ensuring optimal vision and protection for the wearer throughout the day.
Expanding the Quest Line and Looking to the Future with Orion
Elsewhere at Connect, Meta showcased the future of its AR devices with the Orion prototype. Equipped with cutting-edge Micro LED projectors and durable silicon carbide lenses, Orion glasses are designed to seamlessly integrate digital information into the real world. Previews of Orion have demonstrated impressive capabilities, including generative AI features that can enhance user interactions. The Orion system comprises three key components: the glasses themselves, a neural wristband, and a wireless compute puck.
Meta's Quest products now have new affordable model following the announcement of the Quest 3S. In terms of hardware, the Quest 3S incorporates key components from the Quest 3, notably the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset. This ensures compatibility with all Quest 3 games and applications. Furthermore, the Quest 3S features upgraded Touch Plus controllers and offers improved battery life, providing up to 2.5 hours of gameplay compared to the Quest 3's 2.2 hours.
