Meta is gearing up for its flagship developer conference, Meta Connect 2025, on September 17–18. All eyes are on smart glasses, augmented reality, and how Meta plans to deepen its bet on artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable tech.
Key Announcements Likely on the Horizon
- Smart Glasses With Display: Meta is expected to unveil its long-rumoured new smart glasses, codenamed “Hypernova” (reportedly set to launch under the name “Celeste”), which will include a heads-up display in one lens. These glasses are tipped to combine AI functions like notifications, map previews, translations, camera previews, etc.
- Gesture-Control Wristband: Alongside the glasses, a neural or EMG wristband is predicted to be part of the package. This wristband could enable subtle hand and finger gestures to control the glasses—no need for physical buttons or voice commands.
- Ray-Ban and Oakley Models: New versions of smart glasses under Meta’s Ray-Ban and Oakley brands are expected. The Ray-Ban versions are likely to get upgraded designs, better battery life, and possibly the display feature. Oakley’s new models might target more sporty or outdoor use, possibly including one with a central camera and design tweaks for active lifestyles.
- AI & Contextual Computing: Meta is expected to outline progress in its “contextual AI” vision—software and hardware working together, using environment understanding (location, movement, surroundings) to deliver more useful and seamless functionality.
- VR Headset Updates: There’s speculation Meta may preview or tease new virtual reality gear, although a full new Quest-series headset may still be some time off. Partnerships and hardware improvements might be highlighted, especially in processing, display quality, or comfort.
Strategic Moves Behind the Tech
- Meta is trying to transition from prototype and concept into more consumer-friendly, commercially viable AI wearables. The shift reflects growing competition from other big tech firms investing in augmented reality and wearable devices.
- The expected price point for the new glasses (around US$800 for models with displays) suggests Meta is pushing into premium territory—balancing advanced tech with design and usability to appeal beyond early adopters.
- Meta is also emphasizing its AI labs and research work, including its new Superintelligence Labs. These efforts signal that the company wants to be seen not just as a hardware maker but also a leader in AI capability and integration.
Challenges and Risks
- Price vs Adoption: At around $800 for models with displays, the cost could limit how fast or broadly they’re adopted. Many users might wait for lower price points or more polished hardware.
- Design Constraints: Glasses that incorporate displays, cameras, and gesture sensors tend to be thicker and heavier. Comfort, battery life, and heat management are going to be closely judged.
- Privacy, Safety & Regulation: New wearables bring questions around privacy (especially with always-on sensors or cameras), safety of gesture tracking, and regulation. Meta will likely face scrutiny over how these new devices are used and protected.
Bottom Line
Meta Connect 2025 is shaping up to be a turning point for the company’s vision of wearable AI. If the leaks and rumours are accurate, the new smart glasses and wristband may represent a real step toward making augmented, contextual technologies part of everyday life rather than niche gadgets. How well Meta can balance price, comfort, feature set, and privacy will be key to whether this next generation of wearables hits big or remains in the realm of early adopters.
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