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Meta will likely announce its new Project Phoenix mixed reality headset at Connect, featuring a hologram-like video call function using advanced avatars. The event is scheduled for September 23-24, with live demos expected.

Meta is expected to officially unveil its next-generation mixed reality headset, Project Phoenix, along with a new hologram-style video calling feature during the upcoming Connect conference on September 23-24. The event will showcase a significant advancement in Meta’s XR and avatar technology, with live demonstrations anticipated, according to reports from Road to VR and The Information.

Leaked images suggest that Project Phoenix will be a slim, lightweight headset designed to tether to a pocketable compute puck, reducing the weight and increasing comfort for long-term wear. The device is expected to incorporate Meta’s latest avatar technology, notably a more photorealistic version of Codec Avatars, which Meta has been developing since 2015. These avatars aim to deliver more immersive and realistic representations during virtual interactions.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and CTO Andrew Bosworth are expected to demonstrate the new avatar call experience live during the keynote speech at Connect. The demo will likely feature the avatars in a hologram-like video call, a notable leap from Meta’s traditional cartoony avatars. It remains unclear whether this will be a preview of a commercial feature or a research prototype, as Meta has historically used Connect to showcase in-progress projects.

Potential Impact of Hologram-Style Calls and New Hardware

This development could significantly enhance Meta’s position in the mixed reality and avatar space, especially as it seeks to compete with Apple’s highly regarded Personas avatars. The move toward photorealistic avatars and hologram-like interactions may redefine virtual communication, making it more natural and engaging. If successful, Project Phoenix could also mark a major step in making lightweight, comfortable XR headsets more accessible, broadening their adoption beyond niche markets.

Furthermore, the demonstration of advanced avatar technology at a major industry event like Connect signals Meta’s renewed focus on immersive social experiences, even as it shifts away from its earlier metaverse ambitions. The success of these features could influence the future design and functionality of consumer VR and AR devices, impacting how users connect virtually.

Meta’s VR and Avatar Development Timeline

Meta has been working on avatar technology for nearly a decade, initially releasing cartoony representations to support its early metaverse efforts. Over time, the company has gradually improved avatar realism, with recent prototypes showcasing more detailed and expressive digital personas. The development of Codec Avatars, a project aiming for photorealistic virtual representations, has been ongoing since 2015, but has yet to reach broad consumer deployment.

Meanwhile, Meta’s hardware efforts have evolved from the Oculus Rift to Quest series headsets, with Project Cambria announced as a high-end mixed reality device in 2022. The upcoming Project Phoenix is expected to build on this foundation, emphasizing comfort, portability, and integrated avatar experiences. The company has also pivoted from a broad metaverse focus toward AI and wearable technology, but continues to explore immersive social interactions as a core feature.

Unconfirmed Details About Commercial Availability

It is not yet clear whether the hologram-like calling feature and the new headset will be available to consumers immediately after the announcement or remain in prototype/testing phases. Meta has historically used Connect to showcase in-progress research, so the full commercial rollout may take additional months or require further development.

Expected Next Steps After the Connect Reveal

Following the announcement at Connect, Meta is likely to release more detailed specifications and release timelines for Project Phoenix and its avatar features. The company may also conduct additional demos or developer previews before a broader consumer launch. Industry analysts will be watching to see if Meta’s advancements influence the competitive landscape of XR devices and virtual communication tools.

Key Questions

Will the new headset be available for purchase immediately after the announcement?

It is not yet confirmed whether the device and features will be available immediately; historically, Meta has used Connect to showcase prototypes with a later release window.

How advanced are Meta’s new avatar capabilities compared to competitors?

Early indications suggest Meta’s avatars will be significantly more photorealistic than previous versions, potentially rivaling Apple’s Personas in realism and immersion.

What is the significance of the hologram-style video call feature?

This feature could revolutionize virtual communication by making interactions more natural and lifelike, bridging the gap between digital and physical presence.

Will this technology be used in other Meta products?

While details are still emerging, it is likely that Meta plans to integrate these avatar and hologram features into its broader ecosystem, including social apps and future XR devices.

What are the main challenges Meta faces with this technology?

Key challenges include achieving consistent photorealism, ensuring low latency in live calls, and making the hardware comfortable and accessible for everyday use.

Source: Road to VR