There is speculation that Facebook/Meta is refocusing its AR efforts.
The Meta AR Glasses were, according to the latest information, a top priority for the corporation. By far the most vocal critic of the glasses was CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who apparently viewed them as a “iPhone moment.” Then then, it may not be the case any more.
a recent story suggests that Meta/Facebook has scaled back its intentions for AR glasses, according to The Information(opens in new tab). Other gear appears to be at jeopardy as a result of this decision. The long-rumored Facebook watch appears to have been scrapped, according to reports that portal smart displays are being diverted away from the consumer sector.
When we initially learned about Facebook/plans Meta’s for Meta AR Glasses, dubbed “Project Nazare,” we assumed they were going to be available by late 2024. However, as reported by The Information, plans have altered and the glasses will not be commercially marketed.
It’s possible that the company’s decision to reduce its investment in Reality Labs, which conducts research and development in both augmented and virtual reality, is to blame for this shift.
So, what’s the game plan from here on out? An insider told The Information that the first Meta AR Glasses will be used as a demonstration product, according to the new strategy. My assumption is that the first generation glasses will be used as a proof of concept and development tool for the company’s developers. A commercial solution can then be developed, allowing developers to begin designing apps and adapting to augmented reality systems.
Reason the Apple VR/AR headset is said to be in a similar location, that’s because it sounds familiar. While the headgear is expected to go on sale in 2023, its primary goal is to guarantee that developers have the necessary tools and knowledge to create apps for the AR Apple Glasses….
Only the second generation AR Glasses, codenamed Artemis, are expected to be released by Meta/Facebook at some time. However, it’s not clear if that 2026 release date is still on the table for the next-generation model.
However, it’s unclear what this implies for the anticipated Hypernova glasses, which were supposed to be cheaper and operate independently of a smartphone connection.
According to Bloomberg, the development of the Meta wristwatch, which had been believed to contain two cameras, has been suspended (opens in new tab). As a controller, the watch was designed to translate nerve signals in the wrist into commands for other devices that were compatible with it. Electromyography, or EMG.
Facebook’s metaverse goals are said to include electromyography. Sensors on the wrist would allow users to control their avatars or interact with digital items, according to the theory. Meta’s camera reportedly had troubles, which is why the watch was reportedly cancelled. The business is said to be working on more smartwatch models.
Portal, on the other hand, is said to be moving into the commercial market. Since the current versions are compatible with Zoom and Microsoft teams, it’s safe to assume that Portal will be pushed as a tool for hybrid working.
For remote employees who already have devices like laptops and tablets, I believe this means positioning Portal more as a conference-room tool than a standalone product.
As a whole, this does not bode well for Facebook’s plans to build its own hardware. Even said, the Oculus Rift headsets are still among of the greatest VR headsets available despite the uncomfortable renaming of the company.