Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced the highly anticipated Quest 3 virtual reality headset on Wednesday. This cutting-edge device is set to be released on October 10th, with a price tag of $499, as previously announced.
In addition to the Quest 3, Meta also revealed an ambitious venture into generative AI chatbots that will be implemented across its applications. Furthermore, Meta announced an updated version of its Ray-Ban mixed reality smart glasses, equipped with the company’s latest AI software. These advanced glasses will hit the market on October 17th, starting at $299.
The Quest 3 headset boasts a wireless design, enabling users to immerse themselves in a virtual environment and seamlessly integrate virtual elements into their physical surroundings. Zuckerberg highlighted that the resolution of the new headset is ten times higher than its predecessor, the Quest 2. Additionally, the Quest 3 will be compatible with games from Microsoft Xbox.
This launch comes just ahead of Apple’s (ticker: AAPL) expected entry into the VR segment with the Vision Pro, slated for an early 2024 release.
During the event, Zuckerberg emphasized Meta’s unwavering commitment to realizing their ambitious vision for the future of virtual reality. He expressed that Meta is dedicated to creating strong human connections and believes that the future lies in bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds.
Shares of Meta experienced a slight decline of 2.7% during the course of the event on Wednesday afternoon.
Zuckerberg also discussed the upcoming challenge of seamlessly integrating physical and digital realities. He anticipates that future meetings may involve a combination of physical attendees interacting with holographic participants.
This keynote address took place at Meta Connect, a two-day developer event held at Meta’s Menlo Park, Calif. headquarters. It marked the first time this event, previously known as Facebook Connect, was held in person since 2019, prior to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meta’s Latest AI Innovations
At a recent keynote event held at their headquarters in what was formerly known as “Sun Quentin,” Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, made several exciting announcements regarding the company’s advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
Among the new offerings is Emu, a text-to-image platform that will enable users to generate stickers on the fly within Meta’s Messenger app. This feature will undoubtedly add a fun and creative element to conversations.
Moreover, Meta is introducing AI photo editing tools to Instagram, set to roll out next month. This addition will empower users to enhance their photos effortlessly, offering a range of AI-powered editing options.
In an effort to bring more personality to their chatbots, Meta has collaborated with a group of notable celebrities. Tom Brady, Chris Paul, Snoop Dogg, Dwayne Wade, Paris Hilton, and Kendall Jenner have all signed on to lend their personas to various AI chatbots. For example, Snoop Dogg’s personality, known as the Dungeonmaster, caters specifically to Dungeons and Dragons players.
To foster further innovation in the AI space, Meta introduced AI Studio, a developer platform designed for building AI chatbots. This move aims to encourage developers to explore the potential of AI and create dynamic conversational experiences.
Meta is also venturing into the metaverse by integrating their personalities into avatars and non-playing characters in games. By expanding their reach into this immersive digital realm, Meta seeks to enhance users’ engagement and offer new ways to interact with AI personalities.
Lastly, Meta announced the launch of customer AIs with select businesses, marking their initial foray into the commercial sector.
In conclusion, Meta’s recent keynote showcased their dedication to pushing the boundaries of AI. With groundbreaking offerings such as Emu, Meta AI, and AI Studio, the company is poised to compete with major players in consumer-facing AI. By infusing their chatbots with celebrity personalities and exploring the metaverse, Meta is paving the way for a more dynamic and engaging AI experience.
