Meta Connect Developer Conference
Meta, the parent company of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, is set to unveil its latest technological advancements at its annual Connect developer conference. This year's event is particularly anticipated, following Apple's recent showcase of both AI software and updated hardware.
Llama 3.1 Large Language Model
One of the highlights expected at the conference is an update on Meta's Llama 3.1 large language model (LLM). This AI model is designed to compete with those developed by Google and OpenAI. Introduced in July, Llama 3.1 is noted for its cost efficiency, estimated to be about half the expense of running OpenAI's GPT-4 in production settings. Significantly, it is an open-source model, meaning its "model weights" are available for customization, allowing businesses to train and modify it according to their specific needs. Furthermore, Meta plans to enrich its AI chatbot with voice features, reportedly featuring the voices of celebrities like Judi Dench and Kristen Bell.
Integration of AI and AR
Meta has been heavily invested in the metaverse, a concept that combines AI and AR (augmented reality). There is speculation about new augmented reality glasses following a photo shared by CEO Mark Zuckerberg earlier this year, hinting at a new product. This follows the 2021 release of Ray-Ban smart glasses. Meta recently reaffirmed its commitment to this area by extending its partnership with Ray-Ban maker EssilorLuxottica.
Virtual Reality Headset Developments
In the realm of virtual reality (VR), Meta appears to be pivoting from a high-end mixed-reality headset that was meant to challenge the Apple Vision Pro. Instead, the focus is shifting to a more affordable version—Quest 3S. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, this headset will be a simplified version aimed at reducing costs to about $300 to $400, making it more accessible than its predecessor.
As Meta continues to push the boundaries of emerging technologies, the Connect conference promises to shed light on the company's strategic direction in AI, AR, and VR. Attendees and tech enthusiasts alike are eager to see how these innovations will unfold.
