Meta Initiates Layoffs, DPVR AI Glasses Integrate DeepSeek

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, companies are making strategic moves to stay ahead in the race for innovation and market leadership. Recent developments include Meta's layoffs to focus on AI, DPVR's integration of DeepSeek into its AI glasses, and Laclarée's breakthrough in adaptive presbyopia correction. This article provides a comprehensive overview of these and other significant tech news.

1. Meta Initiates Layoffs to Focus on AI

Meta, the U.S. internet giant, has officially begun its layoff process, which was announced last month. The company plans to cut approximately 5% of its workforce, affecting around 3,600 employees. The layoffs are part of Meta's strategic shift towards AI and the development of next-generation computing platforms, such as AI glasses. Employees in the U.S., Europe, and Asia have been notified, and severance packages include 16 weeks of salary, additional pay based on tenure, and bonuses for eligible employees. Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, emphasized the need to build a top-tier AI team to drive the company's future.

2. DPVR AI Glasses Integrate DeepSeek via Baidu Smart Cloud

DPVR, a leading VR company, announced that its upcoming AI glasses, DPVR AI Glasses, will integrate the DeepSeek-R1/V3 series models through Baidu Smart Cloud's Qianfan platform. This integration leverages DeepSeek's real-time processing capabilities for multi-modal data, enabling millisecond-level responses for image and voice interactions. The glasses feature a high-precision voice interaction system, allowing users to perform complex tasks using natural language commands, such as finding and translating photos. This advancement redefines the convenience and humanization of wearable smart devices.

3. Laclarée Secures Funding for Adaptive Presbyopia Correction

Laclarée, the developer of the world's first adaptive presbyopia correction glasses, has secured €6 million in funding, including €3.5 million in seed investment led by睿盟希 and €2.5 million from the EIC Accelerator fund. The glasses, currently in the engineering prototype stage, are set to launch in欧美 markets in 2026 through professional eye clinics and high-end optical retailers. Priced between €400-€600 per lens, the glasses aim to revolutionize presbyopia correction with AI-driven microfluidic optics, offering significant advantages over traditional mechanical solutions. The company is in talks with international insurance providers to include the glasses in vision care reimbursement programs.

4. Xiaomi AI Smart Glasses Feature Electrochromic Technology

Xiaomi's AI smart glasses, particularly the sunglasses version, are rumored to incorporate electrochromic technology, enhancing their fashion appeal and functionality. The glasses are expected to feature color options matching Xiaomi's SU7 car, adding a unique aesthetic. Developed by Suzhou Boyu Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd., the glasses offer active color control, rapid light adaptation, and protection against visible light, infrared, and UV rays. The company's advanced electrochromic lenses provide high clarity, durability, and comfort.

5. Loomos AI Smart Glasses Gain Traction on Kickstarter

Loomos AI, the overseas brand of Shanjie AI smart glasses, has gained significant support on Kickstarter, with 6,409 backers in just half a month. The project aims to raise $5,000, and the glasses are priced starting at $199, with delivery expected in May 2024. Kickstarter campaigns are a common way for innovative consumer electronics to test market acceptance and secure funding for mass production and international promotion.

6. Anduril and Microsoft Collaborate on IVAS Development

Anduril, a defense technology startup, has partnered with Microsoft to develop the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS). Anduril will oversee device manufacturing and future hardware and software development, while Microsoft provides cloud services to support IVAS and Anduril's AI technology. This collaboration aims to enhance military mission command by combining augmented reality and AI, giving soldiers a battlefield advantage. Both companies have expressed high expectations for the project's success.

7. PICO VR Headsets Enhance Elderly Well-being in U.S. Nursing Homes

Monarch Healthcare Management, a nursing home in Minnesota, is using PICO VR headsets to improve the happiness of elderly residents. The immersive experiences allow seniors to virtually travel the world without leaving their rooms. Residents have reported positive emotional impacts, highlighting the potential of VR technology to combat loneliness and enhance well-being among the elderly.

8. Zhoushan City Supports VR/AI Technology Development

Zhoushan City's Putuo District has announced support for VR/AI technology development, offering up to €100,000 in funding for projects focused on digital economy innovation. The initiatives aim to foster a modern industrial system centered on the digital economy, with a focus on marine digital economy, AI, and virtual reality. The support includes grants for digital transformation, R&D in key technologies, and the development of smart factories and virtual reality applications.

9. Apple and Alibaba Collaborate on AI Features for Chinese iPhone Users

Apple and Alibaba are reportedly collaborating to develop AI features for Chinese iPhone users. The companies have submitted their AI functions for regulatory approval, aiming to integrate AI capabilities tailored for the Chinese market. This partnership follows Apple's previous explorations with other Chinese tech giants like Baidu and DeepSeek, highlighting the company's commitment to enhancing AI services for its users in China.

Conclusion

The tech industry continues to witness significant advancements and strategic partnerships, driven by the pursuit of innovation and market leadership. From Meta's AI-focused layoffs to the integration of cutting-edge AI models in consumer devices, these developments underscore the transformative potential of AI and related technologies. As companies like Laclarée and Loomos push the boundaries of what's possible, the future promises a more connected, intelligent, and human-centered tech landscape.