Meta Introduces Orion: Its First Augmented Reality Glasses for Everyday Use

Meta recently introduced its first true augmented reality (AR) glasses, named Orion, at the Meta Connect 2024 event. Unlike previous smart glasses, Orion features advanced AR capabilities that seamlessly blend real-world visuals with digital content through multiple sensors and a see-through display. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the lightweight glasses allow users to interact hands-free with their environment and digital elements.

At the Meta Connect 2024 event, the company unveiled Orion, marking its debut in true augmented reality (AR) eyewear. Unlike its previous smart glasses, Orion is designed to integrate sophisticated AR capabilities, blending real-world imagery with digital content. The glasses are equipped with various sensors, spatial mapping technology, and a see-through display that seamlessly overlays digital information onto the user’s environment.

According to Meta, Orion signifies a major step toward the future of spatial computing and the metaverse. The AR experience enables users to interact with their physical surroundings alongside virtual elements in an immersive, hands-free manner. With large holographic displays, users can position both 2D and 3D content anywhere within their physical space. An intelligent AI system understands the environment and anticipates user needs, delivering a smooth experience. Meta emphasizes that these glasses are lightweight and adaptable for both indoor and outdoor activities, facilitating face-to-face interactions even from afar.

Meta claims that “Orion offers the largest field of view in the smallest form factor for AR glasses to date.” This expansive field of view enables genuinely immersive applications, ranging from multitasking windows and expansive entertainment options to life-sized holograms of individuals—all seamlessly integrated with the user’s view of the physical world.

Moreover, Meta’s smart assistant, Meta AI, is incorporated into Orion. This assistant can recognize real-world objects and provide useful visual insights. For example, users can open their refrigerator and request recipe ideas based on its contents, or video call a friend while updating their digital family calendar—all while multitasking, like washing dishes. Users can also engage in hands-free video calls to connect with friends and family in real time and manage messages on platforms like WhatsApp and Messenger.

It’s important to note that these Orion glasses have not yet been released for commercial use, as further research and refinement are needed before they become available to the public.