In a move that could significantly reshape the technological landscape, Meta has announced a research prototype for its new AR glasses, dubbed Orion. CEO Mark Zuckerberg led the reveal during his keynote speech at Meta Connect 2024, held between September 25th and 26th. Public interest peaked as Zuckerberg showcased these groundbreaking AR glasses, detailing their myriad features and potential uses.
At the same event, Meta highlighted updates to its existing Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. These updates include a new app designed to connect blind and low-vision individuals with sighted volunteers. Additionally, the Ray-Ban models received new stylish frames and an enhanced AI assistant. However, all eyes were undeniably on Orion, Meta’s pioneering venture into the future of hands-free, wearable tech.
Hands-Free, AI-Powered Augmentation with No Screen-Size Limits
Orion aims to offer a glimpse into a future where AR glasses might replace or become a compelling alternative to smartphones. Unlike traditional devices, Orion’s display isn’t confined to a screen; instead, the entire environment serves as the visual interface. Powered by advanced AI, these glasses project large holographic screens that float seamlessly before the wearer’s eyes, integrating both 2D and 3D elements. Thanks to real-time contextual AI, Orion can intuitively understand and cater to users’ needs instantaneously.
Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the glasses are lightweight despite their thick lenses and frame. Meta has achieved a feat of engineering by incorporating miniaturized components, making Orion the AR device with the “largest field of view in the smallest form factor” to date. This technology positions Meta at the forefront of AR innovation.
Cutting-Edge Components for Enhanced User Experience
Orion’s visual performance benefits greatly from advanced color correction, increased brightness, and optimized power usage. It harnesses micro LED projectors and silicon carbide to offer an expansive field of view. Made from silicone and magnesium, Orion’s frame is both frictionless around the ears and thermally efficient, enhancing user comfort.
The frame houses miniaturized cameras and sensors, critical for capturing and interpreting the user’s environment. While dubbed a hands-free device, Orion requires an included wristband equipped with electromyography (EMG) technology. This bracelet tracks hand movements, enabling users to interact with the holographic displays as effortlessly as they would with a smartphone.
A Glimpse into the Future of Communication and Assistance
Orion’s expansive field of view allows users to open and manage multiple tabs simultaneously, arranging them intuitively without clutter. During video calls, participants appear as “life-size” avatars, projected onto various surfaces, including ceilings—making this an engaging experience even while lying down.
Incorporated with Meta AI, an in-house developed smart assistant, Orion can provide users with comprehensive information about their surroundings, potential queries, and even suggest meal ideas based on available ingredients. This level of integration demonstrates the extraordinary potential of AI in enriching user interactions.
Awaiting the Future
Though Orion remains a research prototype with no official release date yet, its unveiling marks a critical milestone in Meta’s AR journey. Packed with advanced technology compressed into millimeter-scale components, Orion exemplifies innovation with the promise to revolutionize how we interact with the digital world. As the development team continues testing, the anticipation for Meta’s AR glasses Orion continues to build, heralding an exciting future ahead.