Meta Connect, the highly anticipated developer conference and hardware showcase, is set to kick off next week, offering a glimpse into the company’s latest innovations in virtual reality, mixed reality, and artificial intelligence. The event, scheduled for September 25, promises to be a pivotal moment for Meta, as it refines its metaverse ambitions and explores new ways to integrate AI into its products and services.
The conference will commence at 10 am Pacific time, with a keynote address by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, which will be livestreamed on the Meta Connect website and Meta’s YouTube channel. The presentation will be followed by a developer-focused address at 11 am, led by Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth. For a more immersive experience, attendees can also tune in via Meta Horizon in VR.
As the tech world waits with bated breath, speculation is rife about the event’s focus. While surprises are inevitable, several key areas are expected to take center stage. One thing that’s unlikely to be announced is a high-end VR headset, a decision influenced by the current market trends and consumer willingness to invest in such devices.
Rumors suggest that Meta may unveil a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3, dubbed the Meta Quest 3S, which would offer a more accessible entry point into the world of mixed reality. This move would be a strategic shift for Meta, which has been a major player in the AR/VR space since its acquisition of Oculus a decade ago.
Despite its significant investment in the metaverse, Meta has yet to see widespread adoption of its vision. Its Horizon Workrooms have failed to gain traction in the workplace, and the initial enthusiasm for digital real estate has waned. Other companies, including Apple, have also struggled to make a mark in the mixed reality space. Apple’s $3,500 Vision Pro headset, released in February, has been met with lukewarm reception, criticized for its high price point, weight, and isolating experience.
In light of Apple’s struggles, Meta’s decision to pivot away from a premium VR headset makes sense. In August, reports emerged that Meta had shelved plans to update its Oculus Quest Pro, a move that Meta’s CTO Andrew Bosworth downplayed as a natural part of the company’s device development cycle. Nevertheless, the shift in strategy underscores the challenges facing the mixed reality market and the need for companies to adapt to changing consumer demands.
