Meta's annual Connect conference will release AI smart glasses. Zuckerberg is betting big on the smart hardware track.

Meta (META.US) plans to release a new generation of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses with artificial intelligence (AI) technology at its annual Connect conference on Wednesday, further expanding its AI hardware product line. However, Meta's handling of child safety issues on its social media platforms is facing scrutiny from the public, making this release highly anticipated. It is reported that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg will debut the company's first smart glasses with built-in displays aimed at general consumers at the event in Menlo Park, California. Analysts estimate that the product will have a retail price of around $800. Insiders revealed that the glasses, internally codenamed "Hypernova," are expected to be officially named "Celeste" upon release. The product features a small digital display embedded in the right lens, allowing for basic functions such as viewing notifications. Analysts point out that, while this glasses will be an important move for Meta to dominate the market in AI, the higher price may deter some consumers. In comparison, the technological level of the new product is expected to be lower than Meta's prototype glasses "Orion" showcased last year. Zuckerberg called "Orion" a "time machine to the future" at the time. Meta plans to officially launch the "Orion" series in 2027. Currently, Meta has partnered with Ray-Ban and Oakley to release two lines of smart glasses, integrating AI features, cameras, hands-free controls, and live streaming capabilities, supporting direct connections to Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms. Since 2020, Zuckerberg has invested over $60 billion in Meta's augmented reality department. He stated that smart glasses will be a key bridge for the company to achieve its vision of "superintelligence," where AI surpasses human intelligence in all aspects and becomes integrated into human daily life. Meanwhile, to catch up with competitors in the AI race, Zuckerberg has initiated a multi-billion dollar talent war by actively poaching top researchers from rival companies. However, internal whistleblowers have accused Meta of prioritizing profits over user safety. Analysts point out that Meta's release of the new product aims to stay relevant in the competition with strong rivals such as OpenAI and Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG.US, GOOGL.US) by combining AR hardware with AI technology. However, negative publicity surrounding child safety and high product prices may present significant challenges for its future promotion efforts.