Meta is expected to unveil its next-generation mixed reality headset, Project Phoenix, at the upcoming Connect 2023 conference, with a live demonstration of a “hologram-like” video call feature using its advanced Codec Avatars. This marks a significant step in Meta’s XR ambitions, aiming to deliver more immersive communication experiences.

Leaked images and reports from Road to VR indicate that Meta’s Project Phoenix will feature a slim, lightweight design tethered to a pocketable compute puck, reducing head-mounted weight and enhancing comfort during extended use. The headset is also anticipated to include a major demo of hologram-like video calls, utilizing an advanced version of Meta’s photorealistic Codec Avatars, a technology Meta has been developing since 2015.

According to an anonymous source cited by The Information, Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg and CTO Andrew Bosworth are expected to present the avatar call experience live during the keynote speech at Connect. It remains unclear whether this demo will lead to a full commercial launch or serve as an in-progress research showcase, similar to previous years’ presentations.

Codec Avatars are designed to create highly realistic digital representations of users, potentially rivaling Apple’s Personas avatars, which are considered among the most accurate and immersive. Historically, Meta’s avatars have been more cartoonish, aligning with its metaverse ambitions, but recent developments suggest a shift toward more lifelike representations as the company pivots toward AI and smart wearables.

Potential Impact of Hologram-Like Calls on Communication

The introduction of hologram-like video calls could significantly enhance remote communication, making it more natural and immersive. If successfully implemented in Project Phoenix, this feature could position Meta as a leader in mixed reality communication, challenging existing solutions and setting new standards for virtual presence. It also indicates Meta’s continued investment in avatar realism, which could influence the broader XR and metaverse ecosystems, potentially impacting how people connect digitally in the future.

Meta’s XR and Avatar Development Timeline

Meta has long been investing in avatar technology, initially producing cartoony characters for its metaverse platforms. Since 2015, it has been working on Codec Avatars to create photorealistic digital representations, though these have mostly been showcased in research settings. The company has shifted focus recently, emphasizing AI and wearables over the metaverse, but the upcoming headset suggests a renewed push into mixed reality hardware and more realistic avatars. Leaked images of Project Phoenix hint at a lightweight design, aiming to improve comfort and usability in everyday scenarios.

Previous Meta hardware efforts include the Oculus Quest series, which gained popularity for standalone VR experiences, but Project Phoenix appears to target a broader mixed reality experience, integrating hologram-like communication features that could redefine remote interaction.

“Meta’s upcoming demo at Connect will showcase hologram-like video calls using advanced Codec Avatars, representing a major leap in avatar realism.”

— an anonymous researcher

Unconfirmed Details About Commercial Launch and Features

It is not yet clear whether the hologram-like call feature will be available in a commercial product or remain a research prototype showcased during the event. The exact specifications, pricing, and release timeline for Project Phoenix are still undisclosed, and it remains uncertain if other features will be announced alongside the hologram call demo.

Next Steps: Awaiting Meta’s Official Details at Connect 2023

Meta is expected to officially unveil Project Phoenix and demonstrate its hologram-like call feature during the keynote at Connect 2023 on September 23-24. Following the event, further details about the headset’s commercial availability, pricing, and broader feature set are anticipated. Industry analysts will closely watch whether this marks a shift toward mainstream mixed reality communication devices.

Key Questions

Will the hologram-like call feature be available to consumers?

It is currently uncertain whether the hologram-like call feature will be part of a commercial product or remain a research demonstration. Meta has not officially confirmed the feature’s availability beyond the demo at Connect 2023.

How does Codec Avatar technology compare to competitors like Apple’s Personas?

Meta’s Codec Avatars aim to produce highly realistic digital representations, potentially rivaling Apple’s Personas, which are considered among the most accurate and immersive avatars available. The key difference is Meta’s focus on integrating these avatars into live video calls and mixed reality environments.

What makes Project Phoenix different from previous Meta headsets?

Project Phoenix is designed to be a lightweight, slim mixed reality headset tethered to a pocketable compute puck, emphasizing comfort and portability. It also aims to introduce advanced hologram-like communication features, a significant evolution from earlier VR-focused devices.

When will Meta officially announce the full specifications of Project Phoenix?

Official specifications are expected to be announced during or after the Connect 2023 event, with the keynote on September 23-24 serving as the primary platform for the reveal.

Are there any other major features expected in Project Phoenix?

While hologram-like calls are a highlight, other anticipated features include improved comfort, lightweight design, and possibly enhanced AI-driven avatar realism. However, full details remain undisclosed until the official reveal.

Source: Road to VR