Apple has announced its new mixed reality headset, called Apple Vision, which is set to be released in early 2024 with a price tag of $3,499. The author had the opportunity to try out the headset and found the experience to be extraordinary, exceeding their expectations. The Vision headset combines virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, providing a high-resolution and immersive experience. The device utilizes Apple's R1 processor and real-time execution engine to deliver fast and seamless visuals. The author believes that the Vision headset has the potential to replace traditional computing devices like the Mac and iPad, particularly for productivity and consumption purposes. However, the author also raises concerns about the solitary nature of the device and its potential impact on social connectedness.
The main topic is Apple's new mixed reality headset called Vision. The key points are:
1. The Vision headset is a combination of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
2. The hardware and experience of the Vision headset exceeded expectations.
3. The headset utilizes advanced technology, including eye tracking and a real-time execution engine.
4. The Vision Pro has the potential to replace traditional devices like the Mac and iPad.
5. The societal impacts of the Vision headset are complex, with concerns about isolation and loneliness.
Meta and LG are reportedly working together to develop future versions of the Quest Pro VR headsets, with LG Electronics responsible for assembly and other LG subsidiaries supplying components, in a bid to compete with Apple's Vision Pro headset, which is set to launch in 2025 with a price tag of around $2,000.
Apple's recent product launch event focused on the new iPhone and other devices, leaving little information about the upcoming Vision Pro headsets, which are promised to be a leap forward in technology but won't be available until early next year.
Meta Platforms (META) stock has a strong setup, with two buy points in reach, ahead of this week's Connect conference where the parent company of Facebook and Instagram is set to unveil its new virtual-reality headset, generative AI tools, and more.
Meta is preparing to showcase new XR devices such as the Meta Quest 3 VR headset and second-gen Ray-Ban smart glasses, along with new generative AI chatbots, at its annual Connect event, while also emphasizing the role of AI in its vision for the metaverse.
Meta is releasing a new model of smart glasses called the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which serve as both headphones and a camera, with improved features such as upgraded microphones and higher-quality photos and videos, aiming to provide users with a more versatile and visually appealing option in the smart glasses market.
Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveils new Ray-Ban smart glasses, AI products, and an updated virtual-reality headset as part of the company's metaverse expansion efforts.
Apple announced its own mixed-reality headset, the Vision Pro, during the World Wide Developer Conference, featuring sleek aesthetics, a custom operating system, spatial software, and a high price tag of $3,499.
Meta has confirmed that the Quest 3 mixed reality VR headset will be released on October 10th, with preorders available now for two storage capacities and various accessories.
Meta's Connect conference focused on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), with Mark Zuckerberg emphasizing the development of hologram interactions, AI assistants, and the new Quest 3 VR headset.
Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available on Meta Quest headsets in December, allowing users to play Xbox games on their VR headsets.
Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is reportedly planning to lay off employees in its Reality Labs division focused on creating custom silicon, which could pose challenges to CEO Mark Zuckerberg's goal of building augmented and virtual reality products for the "metaverse." The unit, known as Facebook Agile Silicon Team (FAST), has struggled to compete with external chip providers, leading Meta to rely on Qualcomm for chip production. The company recently announced new versions of its smart glasses and Quest headset, and it is also working on sleeker AR glasses and smartwatches.
Meta's recent announcements at its developer-focused Connect conference include the release of the Quest 3, improved Ray-Ban glasses with AI capabilities, personality-driven chatbots, and an AI image and sticker tool, indicating the transformation of VR and smart glasses into mixed-reality devices with advanced AI features.
Apple is reportedly considering making its future virtual reality headset smaller and lighter, with the ability to customize each unit for people with impaired vision.
The Meta Quest 3 is a solid upgrade from the Quest 2, with sharper screens, faster performance, and mixed reality cameras, although it may not appeal to as many VR newcomers due to its higher price.
Meta is gearing up to compete against Apple in the mixed-reality headset market, with employees reportedly feeling the pressure as they enter the "afraid of Apple" stage, while Apple positions its Vision Pro as a productivity and entertainment device with gaming as an added bonus.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg discussed the company's metaverse strategy at the Meta Connect 2023 event, highlighting the importance of AI in their products and partnerships with Qualcomm. The newly announced Quest 3 headset offers improved features but faces challenges due to its higher price compared to its predecessor. Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses have seen improvements and the company is focused on expanding its services and enterprise applications. AI is also a key focus for Meta, with the inclusion of AI assistants and the establishment of an AI Studio for developers. Overall, Meta aims to deliver high-quality hardware and improve user experiences in the XR space.
Apple is already working on a next-generation version of its Vision Pro headset to address early complaints about the first-generation model, including reducing its weight and considering built-in prescription lenses.
The Meta Quest 3 offers a hyper-realistic mixed reality experience with impressive color passthrough cameras, although there is limited software that takes advantage of this feature. The headset's improved hardware and hand-recognition controls make it a worthwhile upgrade for owners of older VR devices.
The iFixit teardown of Meta's Quest 3 headset reveals a lack of repairability and complex battery replacement, resulting in a low score of 4 out of 10.
Social media giant Meta Platforms is in the buy range and has unveiled new products, including smart glasses and VR headsets, as it continues to see growth in earnings and sales.
