Meta's annual Connect conference will launch AI smart glasses as Zuckerberg bets on the smart hardware track

According to Zhitong Finance APP, Meta (META.US) plans to unveil a new generation of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology at its annual Connect conference on Wednesday, further enhancing its AI hardware product line. However, Meta's handling of child safety issues on its social media platforms is facing strict scrutiny from the public, making this release highly anticipated. It is reported that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg will showcase the company's first smart glasses with a built-in display aimed at general consumers at an event at its headquarters in Menlo Park, California. Analysts expect the retail price of the product to be around $800. Insiders revealed that the glasses are internally codenamed "Hypernova" and are expected to be officially named "Celeste." The product features a small digital display embedded in the right lens, allowing for basic functions such as viewing notifications. Analysts pointed out that while these glasses will be an important move for Meta to capture the market in the AI field, the high price may deter some consumers. In contrast, the technical level of the new product is expected to be inferior to the prototype glasses "Orion" that Meta showcased last year. Zuckerberg referred to "Orion" at that time as a "time machine to the future." Meta plans to officially launch the "Orion" series in 2027. Currently, Meta has partnered with Ray-Ban and Oakley to launch two lines of smart glasses that integrate AI features, cameras, hands-free operation, and live streaming capabilities, supporting direct connections to Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms. Since 2020, Zuckerberg has invested over $60 billion into Meta's augmented reality division. He stated that smart glasses will be a key bridge for the company to achieve its vision of "super intelligence," where AI surpasses human intelligence in all aspects and integrates into daily human life. Meanwhile, to catch up with competitors in the AI race, Zuckerberg has initiated a multi-billion dollar talent acquisition battle, actively poaching top researchers from rivals. However, internal whistleblowers have accused Meta of prioritizing profits over user safety. Analysts noted that Meta's release of new products aims to bind AI technology with AR hardware to maintain relevance in competition with strong rivals like OpenAI and Google (GOOG.US, GOOGL.US). However, negative public opinion surrounding child safety and the high product pricing may pose significant challenges for its future promotion