Meta Connect 2024 has concluded, leaving behind remnants such as some paper plates and a range of new AR/VR equipment. A comprehensive list of the announcements made at the event is now available for review.
The main highlight of the event is the Quest 3S, a more budget-friendly version of the Quest 3 priced at $300, which is $200 cheaper than the original Quest 3. However, this reduction in cost comes with certain trade-offs, including the removal of pancake lenses, the absence of 4K capability, and reduced storage capacity.
The introduction of the Quest 3S is seen as a strategic move considering that cost remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption of VR/AR technology. Another major obstacle is the lack of a compelling use case to attract the majority of consumers.
In addition, Meta announced that it will soon discontinue the Quest 2 and Quest Pro. This decision aligns with developers’ feedback that creating applications for both the Quest 2 and Quest 3 can be challenging.
Another significant announcement from the show is the introduction of the Orion Smart Glasses, Meta’s new prototype AR wearable. Although these glasses are not yet available for purchase, Meta is collaborating with developers to refine the technology for a future release.
Nathan Ingraham shared his experience of playing “The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom,” a new top-down Zelda title where players take on the role of Zelda herself. Ingraham appreciated the game but noted that managing the extensive array of tools can be challenging.
Jessica Conditt had the opportunity to preview the new PS5 Pro. While she described it as a luxury that could be avoided, she suggested that those with $700 to spare might find enhanced visual experiences in their games.
Lastly, DoNotPay, a “robot lawyer” service, has been fined $193,000 by the FTC for making unsupported claims about its performance compared to human lawyers. This penalty is part of a broader effort by the FTC to regulate AI companies making unfounded assertions about their capabilities.
Furthermore, reports indicate that OpenAI plans to restructure into a for-profit entity, providing CEO Sam Altman with equity in the company. This shift comes in response to recent internal conflicts and the potential profitability of OpenAI.
