MENLO PARK, Calif. — Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg predicted that smartphones as we know them will be largely obsolete within the next decade, replaced by augmented reality glasses, during the Meta Connect 2024 event on Wednesday. Zuckerberg stated that mobile phones have reached their technological limits and are increasingly disruptive to social interaction.
“Within 10 years, many people won’t be carrying phones with them,” Zuckerberg said, according to reports from the event. “They’ll use their glasses for everything.”
The announcement came alongside the unveiling of the Meta Quest 3S, a new iteration of the company’s virtual and mixed reality headset. But, Zuckerberg’s vision extends beyond current headset technology, focusing on the potential of sleek, everyday augmented reality glasses like the Orion, which Meta previewed at the conference. The Orion glasses, described as a prototype, are designed to operate without cables and offer a wide field of vision, enabling users to interact with digital content overlaid onto the real world.
According to Meta, the Orion glasses are equipped with a custom-designed processor allowing for hands-free operation and multitasking. Zuckerberg highlighted the potential for these glasses to transform daily activities, such as deploying multiple virtual monitors in a coffee shop or playing games on any surface. He argued that smartphones often distract from personal interactions, whereas AR glasses could allow users to remain engaged with their surroundings while accessing digital information and communication tools.
The company’s push into AR technology is not without its challenges. Meta is currently facing a lawsuit concerning privacy concerns related to its AI-powered smart glasses, with allegations that workers reviewed sensitive footage, including nudity and sexual content, captured by the devices. This lawsuit, filed after reports surfaced regarding the review of user data, raises questions about the ethical implications of integrating AI into wearable technology.
The Meta Connect event showcased the company’s ongoing investment in artificial intelligence, mixed reality, and wearable technology. Zuckerberg’s prediction reflects a broader ambition to establish Meta as a leader in the next generation of computing platforms. The Orion glasses represent a significant step towards this goal, offering a glimpse into a future where digital experiences are seamlessly integrated into the physical world.
The development of the Orion glasses builds on Meta’s previous work in AR and VR, and the company is actively exploring new applications for the technology, including enhanced communication, collaborative work environments, and immersive entertainment experiences. The glasses integrate AI assistants capable of responding to user requests in various contexts, reducing the need to constantly consult a mobile device.
