Meta has officially introduced Aria Gen 2, its next-generation AI research glasses designed to advance artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine perception. This latest innovation builds on Project Aria, first launched in 2020, bringing substantial upgrades such as improved sensors, on-device AI processing, and enhanced usability.
Cutting-Edge Features in Aria Gen 2
The Aria Gen 2 glasses come equipped with an advanced suite of features, including:
- RGB cameraand SLAM cameras for real-world mapping
- Eye-tracking camerasand spatial microphones for precise interaction
- IMUs and GNSSfor accurate motion tracking
- PPG heart rate monitorand contact microphone for enhanced voice recognition
Meta’s custom-built chip allows the device to process SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), eye tracking, hand tracking, and speech recognition directly on the glasses.
Weighing only 75g, the glasses offer a comfortable experience with six to eight hours of battery life and foldable arms for portability. Additionally, open-ear speakers with force-canceling technology deliver real-time AI feedback, making interactions more intuitive than ever.
Meta’s Vision for AI Research
Meta’s Reality Labs Research and FAIR AI Lab will integrate Aria Gen 2 into their ongoing AI studies. The device will also be available to academic and commercial researchers through Project Aria, reinforcing Meta’s commitment to advancing AI-driven innovation.
Meta AI: A Standalone App in the Works?
In addition to Aria Gen 2, Meta is reportedly working on a standalone AI assistant app, expanding the reach of its Meta AI beyond its existing platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and its dedicated website.
First reported by CNBC, the app is expected to launch as early as the April–June fiscal quarter. The move positions Meta as a direct competitor to AI-powered chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. Responding to the news, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took to X, humorously stating: “ok fine maybe we’ll do a social app.”
Meta is also exploring a paid subscription model for Meta AI, with premium features potentially on the horizon. However, details on pricing and additional functionalities remain undisclosed.
LlamaCon: Meta’s First AI Developer Conference
Meta is set to host LlamaCon, its inaugural AI-focused developer conference, in late April. The event will shed more light on Meta’s AI initiatives, including further advancements in Aria Gen 2 and the upcoming Meta AI app.
A New Era for AI-Powered Wearables
With the introduction of Aria Gen 2, Meta is pushing the boundaries of AI research and wearable technology. As the tech giant continues to innovate in AI and smart devices, the industry eagerly anticipates how these advancements will shape the future of human-computer interaction.
Stay tuned for further updates on Aria Gen 2 and Meta’s AI developments in the coming months!
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