Mark your calendars! Meta Connect, the highly anticipated annual showcase for augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and the metaverse, is just around the corner. This year promises to be game-changing, particularly for smart glasses and AI advancements.

A New Format for a Big Reveal

Kicking off on September 17 at 5 PM PT, Mark Zuckerberg will take the stage for an evening keynote, a shift from the traditional morning start. The following day, a developer-centered keynote will commence at 10 AM, leading into a series of talks and sessions.

Enter Hypernova: The Next-Level Smart Glasses

The hottest topic? Meta's next-gen smart glasses, dubbed 'Hypernova.' For the first time, these consumer-ready glasses will feature a display, offering notifications and photo previews, but don’t expect a fully immersive experience like the Orion prototype.

This innovative eyewear is set to have a dedicated wristband for gesture control, allowing users to operate features intuitively. Priced around $800, the glasses will bear the Ray-Ban brand, positioning them as a premium product aimed at enthusiasts.

What Else is Coming?

Excitingly, there's buzz about a new line of Oakley sunglasses built on their Sphaera design, featuring a centralized camera but lacking a display. Additionally, expect fresh versions of Ray-Ban sunglasses as Meta dives deeper into the smart eyewear market.

AI Takes Center Stage Again

As with previous years, AI will be a significant focus. With a billion monthly users, Meta AI continues to expand, and new character-driven bots for non-English apps are on the horizon. Zuckerberg might also elaborate on his ambitious 'superintelligence' vision, which has sparked both intrigue and skepticism.

A Glimpse into the Metaverse's Future

While AI has been front and center lately, the metaverse won’t be ignored. Expect updates on Horizon Worlds and how AI-powered non-playable characters (NPCs) will revolutionize immersive experiences. While new Quest headsets may not debut just yet, keep an eye out for updates on third-party VR headsets powered by Meta’s software.

Stay Tuned for More!

With a flurry of developments expected, Meta Connect 2025 is shaping up to be an exhilarating showcase of the latest in technology. Are you ready to explore the future? Tune in for live coverage and all the exciting updates!