What to Expect at Meta Connect 2024

Event details and format: Meta’s annual developer conference, Meta Connect 2024, is set to take place on Wednesday, September 25, with a focus on the company’s mixed reality and AI initiatives.

• The event kicks off at 10 am Pacific time with a one-hour keynote presentation by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
• Following Zuckerberg’s address, Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth will lead a developer-focused session at 11 am.
• Viewers can tune in through various platforms, including the Meta Connect website, Meta’s YouTube channel, or in virtual reality via Meta Horizon.

Anticipated hardware announcements: While no groundbreaking high-end VR headset is expected, Meta may introduce new mixed reality devices to strengthen its position in the market.

• Rumors suggest the possible unveiling of a “Meta Quest 3S,” a more affordable version of the Meta Quest 3 headset.
• Meta might debut its first official augmented reality glasses, potentially named “Meta Orion.”
• An updated version of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses with enhanced AI capabilities is likely to be showcased.

AI integration and advancements: Meta is expected to highlight its progress in artificial intelligence, demonstrating how AI technologies are being incorporated across its product ecosystem.

• The company will likely unveil new AI and chatbot features integrated into its various apps and services.
• Building on previous developments, Meta may introduce more AI-generated characters and custom chatbots, despite potential associated risks.
• The event is anticipated to showcase how AI is being infused into all of Meta’s devices and services, enhancing user experiences and functionality.

Mixed reality focus: Meta Connect 2024 is poised to emphasize the company’s ongoing efforts in mixed reality technologies, blending virtual and augmented reality experiences.

• The event will likely provide updates on Meta’s vision for the future of mixed reality and its role in shaping digital interactions.
• Demonstrations of new mixed reality applications and use cases across various industries may be presented.
• Meta might address how its mixed reality initiatives compare to and compete with other tech giants in the space, such as Apple.

Developer opportunities: The conference is expected to offer valuable insights and resources for developers working within Meta’s ecosystem.

• New tools, APIs, and development kits for creating mixed reality and AI-powered applications may be introduced.
• Meta might unveil updated guidelines and best practices for developers to leverage its latest technologies effectively.
• Potential partnership announcements or showcase of third-party applications could highlight the growing developer community around Meta’s platforms.

Market context and competition: Meta Connect 2024 takes place against a backdrop of intense competition and rapid advancements in the mixed reality and AI sectors.

• The event may address how Meta’s strategies align with or differ from those of competitors like Apple, which recently entered the mixed reality market with its Vision Pro headset.
• Meta might discuss its plans to maintain a competitive edge in both consumer and enterprise markets for mixed reality technologies.
• The company could potentially touch on broader industry trends and how it sees its role in shaping the future of digital interactions and experiences.

Analyzing deeper: As Meta continues to push the boundaries of mixed reality and AI integration, the Connect 2024 event serves as a crucial platform for the company to demonstrate its innovation and vision for the future of technology.

• The announcements made during the event will likely have far-reaching implications for developers, users, and the tech industry as a whole.
• While Meta’s advancements in AI and mixed reality offer exciting possibilities, they also raise important questions about privacy, security, and the societal impact of increasingly immersive and intelligent technologies.
• The success of Meta’s new products and initiatives unveiled at Connect 2024 could play a significant role in shaping the company’s future trajectory and its position in the evolving digital landscape.