Meta Set to Release New AR Glasses This Year

Although smart glasses and augmented reality (AR) headsets have been around for ten-odd years (longer, in the case of the latter), the world is yet to see and experience long-awaited AR glasses – the seamless meshing of these two modern technologies, culminating in a device that looks like it’s been lifted straight out of “Inspector Gadget” or “Spy Kids”. 

However, it seems like the wait is nearly over, as Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg recently announced that the company’s Reality Labs Division, in charge of all things VR-related, is set to release their first-ever set of authentic AR glasses later in 2024. 

So, what do we know about the expected release date and what can we expect of these highly anticipated glasses? Let’s have a look.

The Release of Meta’s AR Glasses in 2024: What To Expect

Zuckerberg responded to a Threads user who identified the glasses in a photograph posted by Mark earlier this year, commenting cryptically that the glasses would be ready “later this year” and that Meta was almost ready to share a prototype with the public. 

The assumption made by fans and industry professionals is that the AR glasses will be shown off at Meta Connect towards the end of 2024, an annual developers’ conference focused on emerging artificial intelligence and virtual, mixed and augmented reality technology. 
 

What We Know About Meta’s Brand New AR Glasses

The idea is that they’ll combine the Reality Lab’s AR and VR hardware (already used in devices like the Meta Quest 3) with the AI software of their Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses to create their high-tech augmented reality glasses.

At the moment, Meta’s smart glasses allow users to use their voice recognition software combined with AI technology to ask it questions, as well as take photos and videos, make calls, navigate messaging and more. In addition to these current capabilities, industry insiders have reported that are several other upgrades that are currently in beta testing. For instance, technology that is able to combine ChatGPT-like AI software with image analysis technology to allow users to do things like identify animals, plan a meal based on the ingredients in front of you and so much more. 

Now, Meta hasn’t yet released the specs and functionalities of their brand-new AR glasses, and it seems likely that we’ll have to wait until at least the end of the year for any hints. However, it’s fair to assume that their new technology will be able to seriously expand on what is currently possible, taking these functionalities to a whole new level.

The Design of Meta’s AR Glasses

One of the most anticipated aspects of the release of Meta’s new AR glasses is their aesthetic and design and, in the wake of Meta’s previous partnership with Ray-Ban on their range of smart glasses, the brand associated with the outward appearance of the hardware. 

From the very limited information that is currently available, a first glance at the AR glass shows what’s been described as a fairly “chunky” design. The other notable feature is the two interestingly placed hinges that seem to allow the glasses to fold near th lenses as well has halfway down each arm. 

A recent report released by The Information announced that some of the glasses’ capabilities will include a “heads up” display, utilising projection technology. In addition, these glasses are expected to be pretty heavy, especially compared to previous Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. 

The other issue that’s up for debate is whether or not Meta will stick with the same Ray-Ban branding or opt for something different or a little more subtle. There have also been talks of a potentiial partnership between Meta and EssilorLuxottica, a multi-national eyewear corporation that’s become invovled in advanced AI and VR technological capabilities.

However, all of this remains to be seen – whether Meta releases their first AR glasses prototype later this year at Meta Connect or even further in the future, it’s safe to say that the industry at large is eagerly awaiting the new technology.