Meta's CTO confirms plans for AR glasses prototype demo in 2024
Meta's CTO Andrew Bosworth confirms the company's intentions to demo a highly advanced true AR glasses prototype in 2024, after years of development and billions of dollars spent.
Confirmation of Prototype Testing
In an interview with The Verge's Alex Heath, Meta's CTO Andrew Bosworth confirmed that a small number of employees will begin internally testing the AR glasses prototype next year. He also expressed optimism that people will get a chance to try out the prototype in 2024.
Bosworth went on to describe the prototype as the most advanced consumer electronics device ever made, specifically within the domain of AR and consumer electronics. However, he acknowledged that the device is prohibitively expensive and not yet ready for mass production.
"It’s exciting to have a device that is spectacular in what it’s able to do but it’s also a device that is not on the same technology path that we need to pursue to make it accessible to people," Bosworth said.
Challenges in Mass Production
In order to make the AR glasses more affordable and suitable for mass production, Meta is reportedly downgrading key specifications. The prototype's microLED displays and silicon carbide waveguides will be replaced with LCoS displays and glass waveguides.
While microLED is a new and power-efficient display technology, it is currently not affordable for mass production. Similarly, procurement and export control challenges surround the use of silicon carbide waveguides, which offer a wider field of view.
To mitigate these challenges, Meta will rely on LCoS displays and glass waveguides, which are less costly but still capable of delivering a satisfactory experience. The field of view, however, will be reduced compared to the prototype.
Struggles in the AR Glasses Industry
Meta's decision to downgrade components reflects the broader difficulties faced by the industry in bringing transparent AR glasses to the market. Apple has reportedly postponed its AR glasses indefinitely, while Google has abandoned its internal glasses project in favor of software development.
The industry continues to grapple with technological and cost challenges to make transparent AR glasses a viable consumer product. Meta's timeline projects shipping the AR glasses around 2027, after resolving these hurdles.
While the journey to commercially available AR glasses may be challenging, Meta's commitment to prototype testing and innovation shows their determination to deliver an exceptional AR glasses product in the future.
