According to Meta’s Chief Technology Officer and Head of Actuality Labs, Andrew “Boz” Bosworth, the company is currently working on a “glasses form-factor” mixed reality headset.
In an Instagram Q&A, Bosworth confirmed the corporate is engaged on the system, though didn’t present any concrete timelines:
“While a blended reality headset, even in a glasses-like form factor that we’re currently developing, may not necessarily disrupt the smartphone.” While I anticipate the development of augmented reality, we’re actively exploring this technology; however, I’m unable to disclose specific timelines at this time.
Two weeks ago, a report surfaced citing anonymous claims from two Meta employees that the company is considering a mixed reality system dubbed “Puffin,” which could debut as early as 2027 – reportedly resembling a cumbersome pair of glasses.
The Puffin headset is said to utilize pancake lenses and features an “Exterior Processing Puck and Battery” designed to efficiently distribute its mass, reducing weight on the wearer’s head.
In his Q&A, Bosworth additionally highlighted {that a} “floor breaking” AR announcement is about to come back throughout Join 2024, which is due o kick off September twenty fifth.
“I’m confident that the impending AR announcement has the potential to be truly groundbreaking.” “We’ve already piqued interest in this concept,” said Bosworth, “but I think when people gain hands-on experience with it, they’ll be surprised by its full potential.”
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg reiterated in a July interview with YouTuber Kane “Kallaway” Sutter that the company is showcasing prototype augmented reality (AR) glasses, which now appears to be leading up to an imminent unveil.
“Mark Zuckerberg predicts that his company’s new eyewear will have a significant impact.” “We’re now almost ready to showcase our fully functional holographic glasses prototype.” “We’re focused on refining our client model from top to bottom rather than launching a broad marketing campaign for the prototype.”
We’re already looking forward to learning more about the all-but-confirmed Quest 3S, which is likely to be the company’s next affordable headset. While there is already a fleet of third-party headsets, such as those from Quest-like companies, that operate on HorizonOS, they are currently flying under the radar, awaiting arrival from major players like ASUS, Lenovo, and Xbox.