Meta Connect 2024: AI, Metaverse, and Quest Headset Announcements

Meta Connect 2024 has kicked off, featuring exciting reveals and updates on Meta’s AI advancements, metaverse plans, and new hardware. The event, which began with a keynote from CEO Mark Zuckerberg, highlighted Meta's focus on expanding its virtual reality and artificial intelligence capabilities.

Quest 3S Headset Unveiled

Meta introduced the Quest 3S, a more affordable alternative to the Quest 3, starting at $299 for the 128GB model and $399 for the 256GB model. This wireless headset is compatible with the existing library of Quest apps and games, offering enhanced mixed reality features. With the launch of the Quest 3S, the price of the Quest 3 will be reduced from $649 to $499. Meta has also announced the phase-out of the Quest 2 and Quest Pro, which will be available until the end of the year or until current stock is sold out.

Meta AI Gets a Voice

Meta is expanding its AI capabilities with a new digital voice assistant available on Messenger, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Users can interact with Meta AI by asking questions or chatting, and receive vocal responses from a variety of voice options, including celebrities like Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, Awkwafina, Kristen Bell, and Keegan-Michael Key. This update follows closely on the heels of OpenAI’s release of Advanced Voice Mode.

Llama 3.2 AI Model Released

Meta’s Llama AI models have reached version 3.2, with 11B and 90B variants now offering multimodal capabilities. These models can interpret charts and graphs, caption images, and identify objects in photos based on simple descriptions. However, due to EU regulations, these advanced features are currently unavailable in Europe.

New Game Experiences for Quest Ecosystem

Meta also announced a range of new games for the Quest platform. Headlining the lineup is Batman: Arkham Shadow, launching on October 22 and available as part of a bundle with new Quest 3 and 3S purchases until April 2025. Other upcoming titles include Alien: Rogue Incursion for horror fans, a remake of Arizona Sunshine for zombie enthusiasts, and a VR version of Wordle that will be free-to-play without a New York Times subscription.

Stay Tuned for More

Meta Connect 2024 promises to deliver even more updates and insights as the event progresses. Stay tuned for the latest announcements and in-depth analysis as they unfold on Meta's Developer Facebook page.