Meta Connect 2024: Quest 3S, Ray-Ban Smart Glasses

What to Expect in VR, AR, and AI

Meta Connect 2024 is just around the corner, taking place on September 25-26, and it's expected to deliver exciting new announcements about Meta's advancements in AR, VR, AI, and mixed reality technologies. This year, Meta is likely to reveal several updates that will shape the future of immersive tech, with significant focus on AI integration, augmented reality (AR) devices, and an affordable Meta Quest 3S headset.

Let’s dive into what we expect to see from Meta Connect 2024, based on leaked reports and past trends, followed by post-event updates on actual announcements.

Meta Quest 3S: A Cheaper VR Headset

One of the most anticipated announcements is the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable variant of the Quest 3. Early reports suggest that Meta will offer this device at a lower price point—potentially around $300-$400—making it more accessible to users without compromising on key features like the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset. This model is expected to bridge the performance gap between the Quest 2 and Quest 3, making VR more accessible to a wider audience.

• Key Features (Expected):
  • Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor
  • Lower-spec displays to reduce cost
  • Potential removal of bundled controllers to further lower the price
  • Enhanced compatibility for VR gaming

Meta Quest 3S Specifications

The Meta Quest 3S is the newest addition to Meta's line of virtual reality headsets, offering a more affordable option while maintaining excellent performance. Here are the key specifications of the Quest 3S:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2
• Display: Single Fast-Switch LCD, 1832 x 1920 per eye (20 PPD)
• Refresh Rate: 90Hz/120Hz
• Lenses: Fresnel Lenses with 3-Position IPD/IAD Adjustment
• Controllers: Meta Quest Touch Plus Controllers
• Tracking:
  • 4x IR Tracking Cameras
  • 2x 4MP (18 PPD) RGB Passthrough Cameras
  • 2x IR Illuminators for Depth Sensing
• Software Features:
  • Meta Quest 3 software such as Automated Space Setup
  • Inside-Out Body Tracking
  • Multimodal Tracking
• Additional: Meta Quest 2 Style Glasses Spacer

Meta Quest 3s vs Quest 3 vs Quest 2 Comparison Table

Meta Orion AR Glasses: Meta’s Next Big Leap in Augmented Reality

In addition to VR, Meta is likely to showcase their highly anticipated Meta Orion AR glasses. These glasses are expected to be a major step forward in augmented reality, allowing users to see the real world while overlaying holographic images. Unlike traditional VR headsets, the Orion AR glasses will offer a more lightweight and less intrusive design, making them ideal for everyday use.

• Key Features (Expected):
  • Sleek design with a focus on lightweight, everyday wear
  • Integration with Meta’s AI platform for real-time assistance and information
  • Potential use of holographic technology similar to Magic Leap or Microsoft HoloLens

Meta AI: Expanding the Role of AI in XR

AI is expected to play a significant role in Meta’s announcements at Connect 2024, with Meta likely to introduce enhancements powered by their Llama 3.1 large language model (LLM). AI will likely feature in everything from Ray-Ban smart glasses to Quest headsets, enabling functionalities like real-time translation, object recognition, and more.

• AI Announcements (Expected):
  • Improved AI capabilities for Ray-Ban smart glasses, including more advanced object recognition and translation
  • Integration of Llama 3.1 into VR devices, improving user interaction through voice commands and AI-generated content
  • Expanded AI assistant features across Meta’s ecosystem

Horizon OS Expansion: VR Beyond Meta’s Own Headsets

Meta’s Horizon OS could make an appearance at the event as well. This operating system, which powers the Quest headsets, may soon be available on third-party devices from manufacturers like Asus, Lenovo, and even Xbox. This expansion would allow more users to access Meta’s ecosystem, bringing Meta’s mixed reality experiences to a broader audience.

• Key Features (Expected):
  • Horizon OS on third-party headsets
  • Improved integration with MR devices for seamless XR experiences
  • Enhanced developer tools for Horizon Worlds and other Meta platforms

Meta AR Glasses Teaser

While a full consumer release of Meta’s AR glasses is unlikely this year, we may get a glimpse of a prototype model. These glasses are expected to combine AI and AR technologies, providing users with a preview of Meta’s future vision for AR wearables.

• Expected Features:
  • Conceptual design teasing the future of Meta’s AR ecosystem
  • Potential integration with AI for advanced features like object recognition and on-the-go information

Meta for Work Solutions at Knoxlabs: Your Authorized Meta Partner

As an authorized Meta for Work partner, Knoxlabs is proud to offer businesses the latest in Meta VR technology, including the Meta Quest 3, Quest 3S, Quest 2 and Quest Pro. These devices are designed for industries that rely on immersive experiences, including education, corporate training, healthcare, engineering, and more.

At Knoxlabs, you can easily buy Meta Quest items with one click, giving your business access to advanced VR technology. Note that these products are solely for business use, requiring a valid company tax registration number for ordering.