Meta’s highly anticipated Connect 2024 conference is just around the corner, promising exciting reveals for tech enthusiasts. While much of the focus is expected to be on the company’s advancements in AI, the spotlight will also shine on two significant hardware debuts: a new Quest headset and a preview of Meta’s augmented reality (AR) smart glasses.
For those intrigued by virtual reality, the upcoming release of a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, rumored to be named the Quest 3S, is great news. Although Meta has been discreet about the specifics of this new device, industry speculation suggests it will maintain many of the Quest 3’s features while potentially offering a more budget-friendly option. The Quest 3S is expected to be priced between $300 and $400, making it at least $100 cheaper than the Quest 3’s current $500 price tag.
Given that one of the Quest 3’s standout features is its full-color passthrough, it’s unlikely that Meta would compromise on this aspect in the 3S model. Additionally, it probably won’t be a smaller storage version, as the 128GB variant of the Quest 3 is already considered limited by some users.
In addition to the new VR headset, Meta is also expected to provide a glimpse into its next-generation AR smart glasses. While Meta has previously ventured into smart glasses through a collaboration with Ray-Ban, these were not equipped with AR capabilities. The new AR glasses, which are still in development, aim to incorporate a camera, enhanced computing power, and possibly a built-in display—features that have proven challenging for competitors like Apple.
During the conference, Meta is also anticipated to showcase new AI software for its existing Ray-Ban smart glasses, alongside introducing fresh color options and styles. However, the most exciting revelation will likely be a prototype of the company’s forthcoming AR glasses, signaling Meta’s progress in this evolving technology landscape.
Meta Connect 2024 is set to take place on September 25-26, and the tech world will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the future of immersive technology.
