Meta bets big on wearable AI, Muse as Mark Zuckerberg pushes back against AI doom

Meta is heavily investing in a consumer-oriented AI agent and wearable devices, despite CEO Mark Zuckerberg acknowledging the industry's uncertainty. At the annual Connect conference, Zuckerberg maintained an optimistic stance, emphasizing the importance of putting power in people's hands for a positive future. He argued against calls for a slowdown in advanced artificial intelligence development, stating that empowering people is key to prosperity.

Zuckerberg envisions wearable AI replacing smartphones as the primary means of interaction with technology.

Meta unveiled updates to its smart glasses and virtual reality goggles, which enable voice, eye and hand/finger movement control. The AI agent Muse is the centerpiece of Meta's AI vision, aiming to make agents more accessible and provide personal superintelligence to everyone. Users can engage in real-time voice conversations, video chats, and plan tasks like travel, reservations, and groceries with Muse. The company has partnered with companies like OpenTable, Spotify, and Ticketmaster for these tasks.

Meta is introducing a keychain-like device, the Muse Charm, which will provide the full Muse experience without the need for a phone, computer, or smart glasses. The device will be available for the holidays in December. Audio glasses, called Ray-Ban Meta Audio, will be launched in October, allowing users to listen to music, make calls, and chat with an AI assistant without a screen or video recording.

The glasses will also feature FDA-cleared hearing enhancement for mild to moderate hearing loss, available for $150 or with a Meta One subscription.

Additionally, Meta upgraded its Ray-Ban Meta glasses with new features, including improved cycling and transit navigation, personalized holograms for video calls, and enhanced battery life. The company expanded its product offerings across Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Meta Glasses, with over 100 styles available by the end of the year. The Meta VR Glasses, a significant upgrade from the previous bulky headset, weigh only 100 grams and use an eye-tracking camera and sensor, replacing the need for controllers or a neural wristband.