From: allin
Meta has been making significant strides in augmented reality (AR) glasses, positioning them as a key component of a new era of “ambient computing” [00:53:19]. This represents a potential paradigm shift from traditional mobile handsets and browser interfaces [00:55:26].
Current State and Features
Meta’s AR glasses are described as “chunky sunglasses,” distinct from bulkier devices like Apple’s Vision Pro “goggles” [00:51:53], [00:52:07]. A key feature demonstrated in prototypes is a wristband that tracks finger and wrist movements, allowing for interaction without needing to take out a phone [00:52:31], [00:59:05].
While not yet ready for prime time, Meta has produced around a thousand prototypes, loaning them to influencers for testing [00:52:19]. Initial feedback suggests these glasses appear “meaningfully better” than the Apple Vision Pro [00:57:36] and allow users to look “semi-normal” [01:00:03].
The Role of AI and Ambient Computing
The advancements in AI are crucial to the potential success of Meta’s AR glasses [01:04:09]. Meta had already made significant investments in this area before AI became prevalent [01:04:16].
AI enables several key functionalities for ambient computing:
- Voice and Audio Response [01:04:22]: The device can respond to natural language commands and speak to the user, similar to how OpenAI’s voice control system facilitates dialogue [00:54:25].
- Computer Vision [01:04:30]: This allows the device to understand the surrounding world, functioning as a “true personal digital assistant in the real world” [01:04:33].
- Control Systems [00:55:00]: Ambient computing relies on voice, gesture, and eye control, replacing traditional mice, keyboards, and touchscreens [00:54:09]. This liberates users from “hunting and pecking” and allows the computer to intuitively understand and execute tasks [01:05:40].
The vision for ambient computing suggests a future where information is accessed and tasks are completed seamlessly, without constant interaction with a phone screen, potentially improving social engagement in the physical world [01:06:08], [01:06:31].
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the progress, the ubiquity of glasses as the “perfect form factor” for a universally adopted device is still uncertain [00:56:40]. The form factor is expected to shrink significantly from current prototypes [01:06:56].
Meta is reported to be investing nearly $20 billion annually into its AR/VR division [01:08:41]. The company is seen as “executing extremely well,” with advancements not only in AR but also in AI and recent cost-cutting measures [01:00:42]. While there have been “false starts” in the history of computing devices, the current convergence of technological waves points towards a future where such ambient computing will be common [01:08:39], [01:08:52].