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This week: Augmented Reality glasses

This week: Augmented Reality glasses

plus air frying, airline wifi and AI skepticism

Brett Bouchard
September 28, 2024

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans!

Wondering how it feels to have additional information displayed in front of my eyes!

1. Meta introduces AR glasses prototype

What’s the tech?
Meta has introduced a new prototype for augmented reality (AR) glasses called "Orion." Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital images and information onto the real world when viewed through special devices like glasses.

How is it used?
These glasses would let you see digital information—like messages, directions, or weather updates—right in front of your eyes, blending it with the real world around you. Imagine walking down the street, and your glasses show you directions without you needing to look at your phone!

Why it’s news now?
The Orion prototype is Meta’s first fully functional AR glasses. While not ready for sale yet, it shows Meta’s vision for making AR a part of everyday life. Meta has big plans for the "metaverse" (a virtual world where people interact through technology), and these glasses are a key piece of that puzzle.

2. Air Frying in the Office?

What’s the tech?
The Ninja Crispi is a portable air fryer—a cooking device that uses super-heated air to cook food quickly and without oil. It’s small enough to use anywhere with a power outlet.

How is it used?
You can use the Ninja Crispi at home, in the office, or even while traveling. It comes with glass containers and a "Power Pod" that heats up and cooks your food. Whether it’s reheating leftovers or cooking a fresh meal, this air fryer can even handle a 4-pound chicken!

Why it’s news now?
Ninja has made air frying portable, which could make it easier to prepare healthier meals, no matter where you are. At $159.99, it’s affordable compared to other kitchen gadgets, and it’s already available online.

3. Free Wi-Fi in the Sky? Air France and Starlink Link Up

What’s the tech?
Air France is now offering free Wi-Fi on all its flights, thanks to a partnership with Starlink. Starlink is a satellite internet service created by SpaceX (founded by Elon Musk) that provides high-speed internet by connecting to satellites in space.

How is it used?
Passengers can enjoy reliable internet access during their flights, allowing them to stay connected, stream movies, or even work while flying. This service is available to everyone on Air France flights, regardless of where you sit.

Why it’s news now?
More airlines, like United Airlines, are teaming up with Starlink to improve in-flight Wi-Fi. Starlink’s satellite-based service is faster and more reliable than older systems, making it a big win for travelers who want to stay connected in the air.

Bonus: Wall Street Has Some AI Skeptics

What does it do?
AI (artificial intelligence) refers to computers and software that can learn and perform tasks usually done by humans, like writing or problem-solving. It’s behind many of the modern tools you hear about, like chatbots or programs that create art or stories.

How is it used?
Businesses are pouring money into AI, hoping it will solve complex problems or make them more efficient. However, not everyone is convinced. Jim Covello, a lead financial researcher at Goldman Sachs, thinks that AI may not live up to all the hype.

Why it’s news now?
Covello believes the rush to invest in AI reminds him of past "bubbles" (periods where too much money was put into overhyped ideas, leading to a crash). He’s not the only one; other experts worry that AI’s error-prone systems may not be reliable enough for complex tasks. His skepticism is causing investors to reconsider their enthusiasm for AI, making this a major story on Wall Street.

Conversation Starter:
"Have you noticed all the talk about AI lately? Some experts are actually warning that it might not live up to the hype—do you think they’re right?"