Mark Zuckerberg Unfazed By Apple's Vision Pro, Remains Optimistic About Meta's Future
In a recent companywide meeting with Meta employees, CEO Mark Zuckerberg expressed his lack of concern over Apple's newly announced Vision Pro headset. He said that it did not introduce any groundbreaking technological advancements that Meta had not already explored, reported the Verge.
While acknowledging that he had yet to personally experience the device, Zuckerberg confidently asserted that Meta's vision for the future of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) differed significantly from Apple's.
Zuckerberg highlighted the stark contrast in values and vision between the two tech giants, emphasising Meta's commitment to accessibility and affordability. He pointed out that Meta's upcoming Quest 3 headset, priced at USD 499, would be significantly more affordable compared to the Vision Pro's hefty USD 3,499 price tag. Zuckerberg argued that this would enable Meta to reach a wider user base and ensure that their products are accessible to everyone.
During the meeting, Zuckerberg also noted a philosophical difference in how the companies approached their respective devices. He emphasised that Meta's focus was on creating a social and interactive metaverse, where people could connect and engage with each other in new and immersive ways. In contrast, he observed that Apple's demonstrations primarily showcased individuals sitting alone on a couch, a vision that did not align with Meta's goals.
While Meta has been under pressure to solidify its position as a leader in the VR/AR space, Zuckerberg appeared confident in Meta's direction. The announcement of Apple's headset was viewed as a significant competitive threat, especially considering Meta's struggles to penetrate the higher-end and general computing market. However, Zuckerberg's optimism stemmed from Meta's prior successes in VR gaming and fitness, as well as its commitment to creating an inclusive and socially-driven metaverse.
Meta's CEO acknowledged that the journey ahead would be challenging, but his excitement and belief in the significance of Meta's endeavors were further reinforced by Apple's entry into the market. The meeting with Meta employees marked the first all-hands gathering since 2020, indicating the company's determination to rally its workforce and drive forward in the evolving landscape of virtual and augmented reality.
