WSJ Tech News Briefing: Are Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses the Future of Face Computers?
Release Date: December 20, 2024
Host: Danny Lewis, The Wall Street Journal
Introduction
In this episode of the WSJ Tech News Briefing, host Danny Lewis explores two cutting-edge applications of artificial intelligence and augmented reality technology reshaping consumer products and the future of computing. The discussion delves into how Mondelez International leverages AI to innovate in the snack industry and examines whether Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses might herald the next generation of face-mounted computers, potentially surpassing bulkier alternatives like Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 headsets.
AI in the Snack Industry: Mondelez’s Recipe for Success
Mondelez International, the powerhouse behind beloved brands such as Oreos, Chips Ahoy, Ritz Crackers, and Clif Bars, is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to revolutionize product development. Instead of relying solely on traditional trial-and-error methods, Mondelez has integrated a generative AI tool to expedite and enhance the creation and modification of snack recipes.
Isabel Bousquet, a WSJ reporter covering enterprise technology and AI, provides an in-depth look into this transformation:
"AI is here for Oreos. It's already happening and you don't even know." [01:30]
Mondelez’s AI tool allows food scientists to input various characteristics—ranging from the number of chocolate chips to the butteriness of the dough—and generate multiple recipe variations tailored to these specifications. The AI-driven approach accelerates the development process, making it "four to five times faster" compared to traditional methods [03:25].
The tool was developed in collaboration with ThoughtWorks, following their acquisition of the software consultancy Forkind. By integrating Mondelez’s proprietary data on recipes with ThoughtWorks’ engineering expertise, the AI ensures that new product iterations maintain the brand’s signature qualities while introducing innovative variations.
"The process is not fundamentally different. It's just a lot faster and more efficient." [03:48]
Mondelez’s strategic use of AI not only streamlines recipe development but also enables the company to swiftly respond to market trends, introducing new product lines such as gluten-free or flavored variations with greater agility.
The Future of Face Computers: Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Transitioning from the culinary arts to augmented reality, the episode examines Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses as a potential game-changer in the realm of face-mounted computing devices. Unlike the bulky and expensive headsets like the Meta Quest 3 or Apple Vision Pro, these smart glasses offer a more discreet and stylish alternative without compromising functionality.
Joanna Stern, WSJ Senior Personal Tech Columnist, shares her experiences and insights:
"These are just sunglasses with a camera, mic, and speakers. They’re sort of dumb smart glasses because they don't do that much." [06:24]
Despite their seemingly modest capabilities, Stern highlights the practical benefits of Ray-Ban Smart Glasses through personal anecdotes:
"I have just become obsessed with taking these out in the world, especially when I'm with my kids on the weekends or on vacations because I don't have to hold a phone in front of my face to always take a video or a photo." [06:24]
The smart glasses blend seamlessly into daily life, allowing users to capture moments without the intrusive presence of a smartphone. Unlike bulky headsets that dominate one’s field of vision, Ray-Ban’s design maintains the aesthetics of regular sunglasses while incorporating essential smart features.
Stern contrasts these glasses with Meta’s upcoming Orion prototype, an augmented reality eyewear still in development:
"Orion is what's in the middle here. That's what these companies are trying to get to. [...] you can actually see digital info in your real world. And that’s a ways off." [10:21]
While Orion aims to bridge the gap between simple smart glasses and full-fledged mixed reality headsets, Ray-Ban’s current offering represents a significant step towards more accessible and user-friendly face computers. The collaboration between Meta and Ray-Ban is poised to make augmented reality a more integral part of everyday life without the need for cumbersome equipment.
"Mark Zuckerberg responded and said, 'Next year is a big year for Meta glasses.'" [11:51]
This endorsement from Meta’s CEO underscores the company’s commitment to refining and expanding its smart glasses lineup, signaling a promising trajectory for the technology's mainstream adoption.
Conclusion
The WSJ Tech News Briefing episode on December 20, 2024, underscores the profound impact of AI and augmented reality on diverse industries. Mondelez International exemplifies how traditional sectors like food manufacturing can harness AI to innovate and stay competitive. Simultaneously, Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses illustrate the potential for augmented reality to become seamlessly integrated into daily life, offering a glimpse into the future of face-mounted computing devices.
As AI continues to streamline product development in industries like snacks, and augmented reality technologies evolve to become more user-friendly and stylish, the intersection of these advancements heralds a new era of intelligent and immersive consumer experiences.
Notable Quotes:
- "AI is here for Oreos. It's already happening and you don't even know." – Isabel Bousquet [01:30]
- "These are just sunglasses with a camera, mic, and speakers. They’re sort of dumb smart glasses because they don't do that much." – Joanna Stern [06:24]
- "Mark Zuckerberg responded and said, 'Next year is a big year for Meta glasses.'" – Joanna Stern [11:51]
Credits:
Produced by Julie Chang
Theme Music by Danny Lewis, Jessica Fenton, and Michael Lavalle
Supervising Producer: Kathryn Milsob
Development Producer: Aisha Al Muslim
Deputy Editors: Scott Salloway and Chris Zinsley
Head of News Audio: Falana Patterson