Meta recently launched the Quest 3 VR headset and Orion AR glasses, emphasizing advancements in technology while addressing affordability concerns. Meanwhile, the U.S. government is proposing new password security guidelines, LG faces backlash for introducing full-screen ads on TVs, and Disney is cracking down on password sharing, alongside various tech updates from other companies.
In a recent hardware event, Meta unveiled several new products, including the Quest 3, a more affordable VR headset priced at $299. The Quest 3 features the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip and aims to replace the Quest 2 as a budget option for developers. However, there are concerns that Meta should prioritize enhancing the VR experience rather than just making it cheaper. Alongside the Quest 3, Meta introduced updates to their Ray-Ban smart glasses and made significant strides in augmented reality (AR) with the announcement of the Orion AR glasses, which boast advanced features such as eye tracking, hand tracking, and a lightweight design.
The Orion AR glasses are particularly noteworthy, weighing only 96 grams and incorporating seven cameras for various tracking capabilities. They utilize a silicon carbide waveguide display, which is expected to reduce visual artifacts compared to competitors. Meta claims the glasses will have an impressive all-day battery life, a stark contrast to the limited usage of other AR devices. The glasses are currently not for sale, as they cost around $10,000 to produce, but Meta anticipates that prices will drop to that of flagship smartphones in the coming years.
In another significant development, the U.S. government is taking steps to improve password security standards. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has proposed new guidelines that allow passwords of up to 64 characters, accept any standard character including spaces, and eliminate outdated security questions. These changes aim to address the frustrations users face with current password requirements and are expected to be adopted by organizations that work with the federal government, potentially leading to broader implementation across various sectors.
On a less favorable note, LG has announced the introduction of full-screen ads on their TVs, which has sparked outrage among consumers. The company plans to utilize idle screen time to display advertisements, even on high-end models like the G4, which costs over $33,000. This move has been criticized as an attempt to further monetize products that consumers have already paid a premium for, contrasting with other companies that offer free devices in exchange for ad exposure.
Lastly, the video touches on various tech releases and industry news, including new Samsung devices, updates from iFixit regarding the iPhone 16’s repairability, and Microsoft’s efforts to power its AI data centers with nuclear energy. Additionally, Disney has initiated a password-sharing crackdown, requiring users to pay extra for additional members on their accounts. The video concludes with a personal recommendation for a durable and stylish backpack from Belroy, highlighting its sustainable materials and thoughtful design features.