Meta Leak Suggests Smart Glasses With Display is Nearing Launch, Including Wrist-Worn Controller

Introduction

Meta, the company behind the popular Oculus VR headsets, is reportedly close to launching its next generation of smart glasses. These glasses, codenamed 'Hypernova', are said to feature a built-in display and an electromyography (EMG)-based wrist-worn controller. The latest leak, from data miner and serial leaker 'Luna', provides new insights into what these glasses might look like and how they will function.

Background

In January, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Meta was working on two new pairs of smart glasses. One of these pairs, the Oakley Meta HSTN, was officially confirmed last month. The other, codenamed 'Hypernova', is said to include a built-in display and gesture control via an EMG-based wrist-worn controller. Gurman’s report suggested that Hypernova could debut sometime this year, with a price range between $1,000 and $1,400.

Recent Leak Details

Luna has obtained images and tutorials that appear to show Meta’s Hypernova glasses and their wristband controller, codenamed 'Ceres'. These images and videos were posted on X, providing a closer look at what the final product might look like.

Luna claims that the glasses will be named 'Meta Celeste', based on data mined from recent Meta firmware releases. If this naming scheme is confirmed, it would suggest that Meta is marketing these glasses independently, rather than through a partnership with another brand, as seen with the Ray-Ban Meta or Oakley Meta glasses. Notably, 'Celeste' is not a name used by any of the French-Italian conglomerate’s various eyewear sub-brands.

Controller and Gesture Control

The wrist-worn controller, codenamed 'Ceres', uses EMG to detect gestures such as pinching and hand rotation for UI selection. This technology allows for more precise control compared to touch and voice input. The controller is designed to provide haptic feedback, such as a buzz on the wrist, when a gesture is detected.

Luna shared a tutorial video demonstrating how users can control the glasses' display with their hands. The tutorial includes instructions like: "Time for some magic! Did you know you can control your glasses display with your hands? Let’s learn how. When your band detects a gesture, you’ll feel a buzz on your wrist. Let’s start by selecting something. Quickly tap your index finger to your thumb and release."

Mini-Game Discovery

Luna’s findings also include an alleged mini-game called 'Hypertrail'. This game appears to be inspired by classic arcade games like Galaga and leverages the device’s controller and single display. The game might also incorporate the user’s physical location in some way, suggesting an interactive and immersive experience.

Conclusion

The leak of images and tutorials suggests that Meta is in the final stages of preparing for the launch of its new smart glasses, the Meta Celeste. These glasses, along with their wrist-worn controller, represent a significant step forward in wearable technology. With a built-in display and advanced gesture control, the Meta Celeste could offer users a more immersive and interactive experience.

As we await official confirmation from Meta, the anticipation for these smart glasses continues to build. The combination of a sleek design, advanced technology, and potential for interactive gaming makes the Meta Celeste an exciting prospect for both tech enthusiasts and casual users alike.

Stay tuned for more updates and official announcements from Meta.