Meta reportedly scraps high-end Apple Vision Pro competitor

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Meta has supposedly abandoned plans for a premium mixed-reality headset designed to compete with Apple's Vision Pro. The decision, according to internal sources, came after a product review meeting attended by CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

The headset, codenamed "La Jolla," was slated for a 2027 release and was touted to feature high-quality micro OLED displays, similar to those found in the Vision Pro. However, the high cost associated with these displays proved to be a significant hurdle in achieving a price point below US$1,000 (around CA$1,350).

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Threads experiments with self-destructing posts

Image: Meta

Threads is thinking of pulling an Instagram by experimenting with a new feature that allows users to set a 24-hour expiration timer on their posts. Once the timer runs out, the post and all its replies will disappear, similar to what you do with Instagram Stories. This is also reminiscent of pre-X Twitter's short-lived Fleets feature, but it could be a useful option for users who frequently delete their posts.

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Meta Connect 2024 dates announced

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Mark Zuckerberg announced Meta Connect 2024—a two-day event on September 25-26—via Instagram story. The focus, according to Meta's social media channels, will be on "exploring the future of AI and mixed reality, and sharing progress on building the metaverse."

While details are scarce, Meta's emphasis on AI before mixed reality (XR) seems strategic. Following Google's two-hour AI showcase at I/O 2024, Meta might follow suit, highlighting advancements in its Meta AI and Llama 3 models. This might not excite those solely interested in XR hardware.

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Meta opens up Horizon OS, aims to be the Android of VR

Image: Mark Zuckerberg

Meta is making a big shift in virtual reality by licensing its operating system, Horizon OS, to other hardware makers. This follows the trend of Meta becoming a more open platform, unlike Apple's closed approach.

Previously exclusive to Meta's Quest headsets, Horizon OS will now power VR devices from companies like Lenovo, ASUS, and even a limited-edition Xbox Quest. This opens the door for more variety in VR hardware, catering to different needs and budgets. Imagine a work-focused headset that connects to your PC or a high-resolution entertainment headset—the possibilities become much broader.

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