Meta at Connect 2024 launched the new Meta Quest 3S headset. Priced at $299.99, the Quest 3S features the same advanced capabilities as its predecessor, the Meta Quest 3, but aims to attract newcomers and budget-conscious users looking to upgrade from earlier models.
The Quest 3S shares many capabilities with the Meta Quest 3, including full-color Passthrough for blending virtual and physical environments, enhanced spatial audio, and improved app support. It targets newcomers to mixed reality or those looking to upgrade from older models.
The Quest 3S also boasts improvements in spatial audio, contrast, and colour in Passthrough mode, making virtual and physical world integration more realistic. Additionally, users can take advantage of a new Travel Mode, which will soon expand to include compatibility for use on trains and while lying down.
Alongside the Quest 3S, Meta announced a price drop for the 512GB Meta Quest 3, now available for $499.99 USD, down from $649.99 USD. The Quest 3 continues to cater to tech enthusiasts and gamers, offering four times the storage of the Quest 3S and advanced display technology with its 4K+ Infinite display and pancake lenses.
At Connect 2024, Meta also announced significant updates to its AI offerings including the introduction of voice interaction with Meta AI on Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram DM. Users can now engage with the AI using voice commands, receiving spoken responses in return. The feature also allows users to select from different voice options, including popular personalities like Awkwafina and Dame Judi Dench.
Another major enhancement is the AI’s ability to analyse and edit photos shared in chats. Users can inquire about the content of their photos such as identifying a flower or seeking cooking instructions for a dish and receive informative responses. Additionally, Meta AI can assist in photo editing by allowing users to specify changes, such as altering outfits or backgrounds.
Meta is also testing a translation tool for audio in Reels, aimed at broadening the accessibility of creator content. This feature will automatically translate and dub videos, simulating the speaker’s voice in another language while syncing the lip movements. Meta AI now also offers enhanced creative features, such as generating AI images for users’ Facebook and Instagram profiles. Users can create personalized themes for their chats and receive suggested captions for their Stories. The AI-generated content will also appear in feeds based on user interests and trends.
For businesses, Meta is rolling out AI tools to help manage customer interactions more effectively via WhatsApp and Messenger. These business AIs can handle inquiries, provide support, and facilitate purchases, enhancing customer engagement.
