Snap & Meta present new VR glasses

In a nutshell: Meta seems to have a stable prototype. Snap, on the other hand, has a more global design, immature demos and mixed reactions.

We compare and test the two models and answer the question: Why is Zuckerberg investing billions in VR & AR?

Let’s start with the presentation of Snap’s “Spectacles”.

Snap “Spectacles” Presentation – Video

Snap is launching an updated version of its AR glasses on the market with the new Spectacles. Although they are chunkier than their predecessors, they offer exciting approaches for integrating augmented reality into everyday life. The new features, including gesture control and AR effects, are currently only aimed at developers – a step towards further exploring the potential of this technology.

Mark Zuckerberg presents “Orion” prototype – Video

Mark Zuckerberg eagerly presents the Orion prototype from Meta, which is considered a revolutionary AR headset. With holographic representations in the real world and a new type of gesture control that works via a neural interface, Meta is focusing on a high-tech experience. Although the Orion glasses are currently only a prototype, they offer an impressive glimpse into the future of augmented reality.

Snap & Meta glasses in the test

One of my favorite podcasts, Hard Fork, sums it up like this:

• Snap: Very very simple model
• Meta: Significantly more advanced than Snap

Great episode, part 1 right at the beginning.

But long story short, if you want a detailed review of the two models, take a look at these two videos.

Snap’s Spectacles glasses in the test

What can Spectacles do?

In contrast to Meta’s “Orion”, feelings are not only mixed in the podcast, this review also shows that the idea is good, but the implementation is not. Here are the most important findings about Spectacles:

The new Snap Spectacles receive mixed reviews in the video. The original Spectacles were praised for their simple and fun functionality, especially for recording short videos for Snapchat. The new AR glasses, on the other hand, seem clunkier and less suitable for everyday use. The further development towards augmented reality (AR) is highlighted as a positive aspect, as Snap has successfuly popularized AR filters in the past. However, the new glasses are currently only available as a developer kit and the demos were still immature. The high fee of $99 per month for developers is also viewed critically.

“The new AR glasses, on the other hand, are clunkier and less suitable for everyday use.”

5 facts about the “Spectacles” glasses

• Chunkier design
• Developer kit only, $99/month
• Immature demos
• Positive: Snap’s AR expertise
• Mixed reactions

Meta’s “Orion” glasses for (still) only $10,000

What can Orion do?

Here is the whole video ultra briefly summarized for you:

It displays holograms in the real world and enables gesture control thanks to a neural interface. The glasses offer a large field of vision and virtually artifact-free displays. Particularly impressive is the integration of AI, which makes the experience even more realistic. Despite some weaknesses, such as the clunky design and short battery life, the tester emphasizes that the glasses are a glimpse into the future of augmented reality. However, they are currently only an expensive prototype.

“Overall praise for meta – though always bear in mind, from a nerd, whether the concept catches on, we’ll see.”

5 facts about the “Orion” glasses

The most important thing from the video for you:

1. Innovative AR headset
2. Holograms in the real world
3. Control through gestures (neural)
4. Very good field of view, few artifacts
5. High price ($10,000), prototype

Demographics and definition: Generation Alpha

Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and probably 2026, are the children of the millennials. They are growing up entirely in a digital world and have access to smartphones, tablets and other digital devices right from the start. Generation Z, born roughly between 1997 and 2012, has experienced the transition from analog to digital media and makes intensive use of social media. Both generations are technologically savvy, but Generation Alpha is fully digitally savvy, while Generation Z is adaptable to new technologies.

• Generation Alpha: Born from 2010 onwards, children of the millennials, completely digital.
• Generation Z: Born 1997-2012, transition from analog to digital, social media intensive.

Technological affinity of both generations

Generation Alpha has grown up entirely in a digital world and is often referred to as “digital natives”. They have had access to smartphones, tablets and other digital devices right from the start. Generation Z has experienced the transition from analog to digital media. They use social media intensively and are adaptable to new technologies.

Direct comparison: What you need to consider!

Media consumption: Alpha vs. Z

Generation Alpha prefers visual and interactive media such as YouTube, TikTok and child-friendly apps. This generation mainly consumes content via visual platforms and interactive media. Generation Z uses a variety of platforms, including Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube. They consume content quickly and prefer visual and short content.

• Generation Alpha: Prefers YouTube, TikTok, interactive media, parents as mediators.
• Generation Z: Uses Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, short content, values authenticity.

Communication and interaction

Generation Alpha interacts heavily via visual and voice-controlled assistants such as Siri and Alexa. Parents are often the mediators in product use and decision-making. Generation Z values authenticity and direct interaction. They prefer brands that are transparent and socially engaged.

Values and attitudes

The values and attitudes of Generation Alpha are still emerging, but it is becoming apparent that they are strongly influenced by the values of their Millennial parents, who are focused on sustainability and social responsibility. Generation Z places a high value on diversity, inclusion and social justice. They are skeptical of traditional advertising techniques and prefer personalized and relevant content.

Buying behavior of the generations

The purchasing behavior of Generation Alpha is strongly influenced by parents. Products that offer education, fun and interactivity are popular with this generation. Generation Z has reached its own purchasing power range and shows a preference for online shopping. They research thoroughly and rely on reviews and recommendations on social media.

Effective marketing strategies

Marketing strategies for Generation Alpha should include interactive, visual and playful content. This content should be distributed on channels such as YouTube Kids, apps and interactive learning platforms. Authentic, short and relevant content should be created for Generation Z.

• Generation Alpha: Interactive, visual, playful content, channels such as YouTube Kids, apps.
• Generation Z: Authentic, short, relevant content, social media, personalized approach.