Meta, the tech giant known for its social media platforms and virtual reality innovations, recently unveiled a new prototype of augmented reality AR glasses called Orion. This exciting development aims to redefine how we interact with both the physical and digital worlds. However, these advanced glasses won’t be available for sale just yet.
What is Orion?
Orion, previously codenamed Project Nazare, is described by Meta as the “most advanced pair of AR glasses ever made.” Unlike their earlier models, such as the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, Orion is positioned as “true” AR glasses. This means they are designed to blend the virtual world seamlessly with the real world, providing a more immersive experience.
Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, showcased Orion during the Connect conference. He explained that this prototype is essentially an “internal developer kit.” The purpose of Orion is not to hit the consumer market right away, but rather to help developers refine the software and gather feedback. Bosworth noted that while we won’t see Orion in stores immediately, a consumer version is expected to emerge within this decade, likely priced above a typical smartphone.
The Price Tag
Bosworth hinted that the price for Orion could be significantly higher than the existing Meta Quest devices. He didn’t specify an exact number, but mentioned that it may start at a price comparable to high-end smartphones, which can reach around $1,000. The goal is to make these glasses more accessible over time, although they will likely not be cheap. For real-life experience with the Mark watch a YouTube review on The Verge
A Peek at the Technology
What makes Orion ( AR Glasses ) stand out? For starters, it features a wireless design that offloads computing power to a small pocketable unit, eliminating the need for wires. This design allows for easier mobility and interaction. The glasses include advanced features like eye-tracking and a wristband that uses electromyography (EMG) to track hand movements. This means users can control their experience without traditional controllers.
Moreover, Orion operates on a new operating system designed specifically for AR, separate from the Horizon OS used in Meta’s VR headsets. This tailored OS allows for a unique user experience, emphasizing natural interactions without the need for hand controllers.
Immersive Features
Orion boasts several impressive capabilities. It features a holographic display, which means users can see digital images overlaid in their real-world environment. It can support multitasking, allowing users to open multiple windows or even interact with life-size holograms. The glasses also come equipped with a personal AI assistant that helps users navigate their daily tasks.
For example, you could open your fridge and ask for recipe suggestions based on available ingredients. Additionally, you could manage a digital family calendar while washing dishes—definitely a multitasking marvel!
Not for Consumers Yet
Despite all its impressive features, Orion will not be available for consumers just yet. Bosworth made it clear that while Orion is a polished prototype, it is meant primarily for internal testing and development. Meta plans to work closely with developers and select audiences to gather feedback and improve AR glasses the technology further before a wider release.
In the coming years, we can expect to see advancements based on AR glasses Orion’s technology. Meta aims to enhance the display quality, reduce the size of the glasses, and produce them at a scale that makes them more affordable for everyday users.
What’s Next for Meta?
Alongside the announcement of Orion, Meta also introduced updates to its existing devices, including a new budget version of the Quest headset. The Meta Quest 3S is designed to make mixed reality more accessible, starting at $299.99. While it comes with some compromises, it still offers exciting features for those looking to dive into the world of virtual and augmented reality.
Meta is also enhancing its Ray-Ban Meta AR glasses with new AI capabilities, allowing users to record and send voice messages on popular messaging platforms and even receive meal suggestions based on visible ingredients.
Conclusion
Meta’s Orion AR glasses represent a significant step forward in augmented reality technology. Although they are not available for purchase yet, the innovations they bring could reshape how we interact with the digital world. As Meta continues to refine its technology and explore new possibilities, we can look forward to a future where augmented reality becomes a part of our everyday lives. While we wait, the anticipation for affordable, consumer-friendly AR devices continues to grow.
You may also like
- Rukum Maikot: A Celebrated New Hit in Nepali Music
- Voice Actors Fight Back: Legal Action Against tech company for stealing their voices
- Pathao Nepal Celebrates 6 Years: Exciting New Services Launched
Tech enthusiast and data scientist, I combine my analytical skills with a passion for tech News to deliver the latest insights and trends in the tech world. When I’m not crunching data, I’m blogging about the innovations shaping our digital future