Meta has officially announced the dates for its Connect 2024 technology showcase, set for September 25-26, 2024. This annual event is expected to unveil Meta’s latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) technologies. While specific details are still under wraps, the event promises to feature sessions, cutting-edge technology, and prominent speakers, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Historically, the Connect event has been a platform for major announcements. In the past, Meta has introduced products like the Meta Quest 3 and Ray-Ban AR glasses. This year’s event comes at a crucial time, as the XR market has seen increased competition, particularly from Apple’s recent entry into the space. To maintain its market leadership, Meta is expected to showcase a robust and competitive product lineup.
Meta has already made significant strides in AI, which will likely be a focal point at Connect 2024. The company has been expanding its array of open AI models and resources, aimed at enabling more people to create with AI. Recently, Meta highlighted its efforts to develop advanced recommendation technologies for its algorithms, which could see further enhancements announced at the event. Additionally, Meta has been working on building artificial general intelligence (AGI), stockpiling Nvidia H100 chips to construct the largest capacity AI system globally. This ambitious project underscores Meta’s commitment to becoming a key leader in AI development.
Speculation suggests that Meta may unveil new integrations of AI with its XR technologies. This could include features like simplified VR environment creation through conversational prompts or voice commands, making it easier for users to design and interact with virtual spaces. Such innovations would lower barriers to entry and enable more users to engage with Meta’s digital ecosystem.
Earlier this year, Meta announced plans to expand the use of XR headsets in educational settings. A new Meta Quest product range designed for education aims to foster the adoption of XR technology among educators. This initiative includes education-specific XR applications and management features that enable teachers to use multiple Quest devices simultaneously in classrooms.
The upcoming Connect 2024 event could also see the introduction of new hardware. Rumors suggest the possibility of unveiling AR glasses and a more affordable Quest 3S headset. Meta has also indicated plans to rebrand Quest OS to Meta Horizon OS, opening it up to third-party developers. This move suggests a broader strategy to expand Meta’s XR ecosystem.
In conclusion, Connect 2024 is poised to highlight Meta’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI and XR technologies. With potential announcements ranging from advanced AI integrations to new hardware products, the event promises to showcase Meta’s vision for the future of digital experiences. As anticipation builds, the tech world eagerly awaits what Meta has in store for its annual technology showcase.
