Recently, I was asked to share my thoughts on Meta’s Orion AR glasses and whether they have the potential to become as ubiquitous as smartphones in the future.
My insights were included in a Lifewire article discussing Meta’s Orion AR glasses and their implications for the future. While only a portion of my response was used in the article, I believe it’s important to share my full perspective on record.
Q: With smartphones being a unique market phenomenon due to subsidies and replacing traditional cellphones, do you think AR glasses will have widespread adoption?
Ben: I am aligned with major tech companies like Meta, Apple, and Google in believing that AR glasses are the natural progression from smartphones in the long run. The appeal lies in the concept of performing all current smartphone functions on a magical floating screen that can adjust in size and location as needed. Imagine having a portable screen that transforms from a small window on-the-go to a large cinema screen at home.
If technology can deliver on this vision (which is within the realm of possibility), it not only replaces smartphones but also other display devices like TVs, laptops, desktop monitors, and smartwatches. By consolidating multiple screens into a single wearable device, users can enjoy high-quality virtual displays anywhere they go.
While devices like Apple Vision Pro showcase the potential of virtual screens, the challenge lies in miniaturizing this technology to fit into compact glasses like Orion. This technical feat will require significant advancements, making AR glasses a long-term investment, possibly a decade away from becoming mainstream.
Q: Considering limitations like typing difficulties, battery life, and the need to wear glasses, are AR glasses a viable technology?
Ben: Overcoming challenges such as typing in XR and optimizing battery life are ongoing research pursuits. Solutions like Meta’s EMG input device and the use of a wireless ‘compute puck’ in Orion demonstrate progress towards enhancing user experience and functionality. With innovations in input methods and power management, AR glasses have the potential to address these concerns effectively.
Q: What drives Meta’s ambition to develop a platform that rivals Android and iOS?
Ben: Meta’s strategic focus on immersive technologies stems from a desire to reduce dependence on Google and Apple’s platforms. By pioneering advancements in AR and VR through acquisitions like Oculus, Meta aims to establish itself as a leading player in the next computing paradigm, distinct from the dominant mobile operating systems.
