Project Aria, from Facebook, is a prototype of connected glasses developed in partnership with Ray-Ban.
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The smart glasses war is brewing.
Seven years after the Google Glass flop, Facebook is launching into the battle with Project Aria.
Developed in partnership with EssilorLuxottica under its Ray-Ban brand, the prototype unveiled on Wednesday by Mark Zuckerberg is however more Snap Spectacles or Amazon Echo Frames than Google Glass.
Expected next year, the first version embeds several sensors (photo, video and geolocation for 3D mapping) but will not offer an augmented reality vision.
Facebook is experimenting with several display technologies, but they will probably not be ready for two or three years.
A privacy charter under development
If Mark Zuckerberg considers this prototype "rather pretty", the branches are still quite impressive.
The 3D modeling of the surrounding space seems to be in line with Google's work with Project Tango, while the photo and video sensors are reminiscent of the glasses marketed by Snap.
Criticized for its management of personal data, Mark Zuckerberg assures us that Facebook is working with partners to put in place a charter that respects privacy.
Holders of the first prototypes will only be allowed to check in at Facebook offices, at home and in public spaces, but not in private spaces such as shops or restaurants without written permission from the establishments.
Mark Zuckerberg also presented the second generation of the lighter and more powerful Oculus Quest virtual reality headsets on Wednesday.
At 299.99 dollars in the United States, the first price is cheaper than the previous version.
Mark zuckerberg
Facebook
High-Tech
Augmented reality