On Wednesday, Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg launched a range of new AI-powered products, including smart glasses capable of answering questions and live streaming on Facebook, as well as a bot program for image creation and an upgraded virtual reality headset. Zuckerberg described the products as bridging the virtual and real worlds, emphasizing that among Meta's offerings is low-cost or free AI that can be integrated into daily routines.
The Meta Quest virtual reality headset is the most popular in the emerging VR market, and company executives described it as the best value in the industry, especially in light of Apple's upcoming expensive headset release. Zuckerberg announced that the latest mixed reality headset (Quest) will be available starting October 10.
His remarks were made at Meta Connect, the company's largest social media event of the year and the first in-person conference since the onset of the COVID pandemic. He also introduced the first generative AI products aimed at consumers, including the Meta AI chatbot that can create text responses and realistic images. Zuckerberg stated, "It's not just about answering inquiries… it's about entertainment and helping you connect with the people around you."