The smartphone, once an indispensable part of our daily lives for nearly thirty years, could soon be facing obsolescence. That’s the prediction from some of the leading figures in technology. With advancements in smart glasses, major players like Meta and Apple are wagering that the future of personal communication and information dissemination will shift away from the ubiquitous smartphone and toward wearable technology. Is this a possibility? Are we really witnessing the decline of smartphones?
Is the Smartphone Becoming Outdated?
The smartphone has been a game-changer, redefining how we connect, work, and enjoy entertainment. But the question remains: is it nearing the end of its reign? Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, certainly thinks so. In a recent video on Cleo Abram’s channel, Zuckerberg articulated his belief that smart glasses are poised to become the next significant computing platform. He noted a growing public preference for technology that is more subtle and convenient—a promise that smart glasses aim to fulfill. Rather than holding a device to engage with our surroundings, we could soon experience a world where information is seamlessly integrated into our daily routines through a more immersive and non-intrusive interface. While I remain skeptical, Zuckerberg’s forecasts certainly warrant consideration.
He elaborated: “The trajectory of computing is towards becoming more omnipresent, more intuitive, and more social. People want to engage with those around them, and I believe this will likely be the primary platform after mobile phones.”
Could Smart Glasses be the Next Tech Revolution?
The idea of swapping out your smartphone for a pair of smart glasses might seem like a plot twist from a science fiction novel, but recent technological developments lend credence to this notion. Major technology firms are investing heavily in creating smart glasses, aspiring to revolutionise our interactions with the world. Apple has entered the fray with its Vision Pro, while Meta leads the charge, although numerous smaller companies are also developing their own models.
Zuckerberg is notably confident about Meta’s direction. He predicts that the company’s Orion smart glasses could completely supersede smartphones within the next ten years. He stated, “There will come a time when your smartphone resides more often in your pocket rather than in your hand. I believe that will occur in the 2030s, where users may find the convenience of glasses in performing tasks more appealing, even if phones can achieve them more fully or efficiently.”
These connected glasses could provide a myriad of functionalities, from augmented reality experiences to delivering real-time updates. Picture walking down the street, with your glasses guiding your path with visual prompts instead of pulling out your phone for directions. They could also function as personal assistants, answering inquiries, keeping you informed with news updates, and even making recommendations for activities.
While the road ahead remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the next leap in technology may emerge from a device that rests comfortably on our faces rather than in our pockets. As tech titans compete to refine these wearables, it’s evident that our interaction with gadgets is set to become a lot more hands-free.
