In the world we live in today, it’s hard to imagine leaving the house without our mobile phones. They’ve become an essential part of our daily lives, both personally and professionally. From staying connected to managing our schedules, smartphones have revolutionized the way we live and work. In fact, they’ve been one of the most significant technological innovations in the past two decades.
But according to Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, the end of mobile phones is on the horizon. During several talks, including at Meta Connect 2024, Zuckerberg shared his bold vision for the future. By 2030, he believes that smartphones will no longer be necessary. Instead, a new device will take their place.
The Mobile Phone Market in Decline
The market for mobile phones is already showing signs of slowing down. According to a Presse-citron report, smartphone sales dropped by 3.2% in 2023, with production declining by 19.5% that same year. This downward trend has been noticeable since 2022, with budget models seeing the most significant decline. However, high-end smartphones are still selling well, with a 4.7% increase in sales for devices priced over €460. It seems consumers are now gravitating toward the best-performing phones available.
Zuckerberg attributes this stagnation to a “glass ceiling” that phone manufacturers have hit in terms of innovation. Simply put, they can no longer revolutionize their devices. As a result, Zuckerberg predicts that in the near future, your smartphone will spend more time in your pocket than in your hands.
A New Device to Replace Mobile Phones: Smart Glasses
While the idea of a world without mobile phones seems difficult to fathom, Zuckerberg is confident that another device will easily take their place: smart glasses.
These devices, which combine augmented reality (AR) and new digital features, promise a more immersive and natural experience than smartphones. Meta has already ventured into this space with the launch of Ray-Ban Stories in 2022, followed by an upgraded version called Ray-Ban Meta. But what exactly do these glasses offer?
The glasses come equipped with a camera, speakers, and a microphone, enabling users to capture moments, listen to audio, and interact through voice commands. Thanks to AR, they can project information directly into your line of sight, allowing users to interact with content in real-time. Some interesting features include real-time translation of texts and conversations, making them even more practical for everyday use.
Zuckerberg is confident that these devices will gradually become mainstream, eventually replacing smartphones. His continued investment in this space shows his commitment to making this vision a reality.
The Uncertain Future: Challenges and Gradual Adoption
Despite Zuckerberg’s enthusiasm, the transition to smart glasses will likely be a gradual process. These devices are still far from being widely adopted. While models like Ray-Ban Stories are relatively affordable at around €280, others, such as Microsoft’s HoloLens 2, come with a hefty price tag of up to €3,250.
Moreover, many consumers are still hesitant to part with their smartphones. After all, the versatility that mobile phones offer is something smart glasses have yet to fully match. The process of switching from one device to another will likely depend on technological advancements and marketing efforts by companies like Meta and Apple.
In the end, while we may not be saying goodbye to our smartphones just yet, Zuckerberg’s vision of a world dominated by smart glasses is becoming increasingly likely. It’s a future that may take some time to fully materialize, but the seeds for a post-phone world are definitely being planted.
Peter, a distinguished alumnus of a prominent journalism school in New Jersey, brings a rich tapestry of insights to ‘The Signal’. With a fervent passion for news, society, art, and television, Peter exemplifies the essence of a modern journalist. His keen eye for societal trends and a deep appreciation for the arts infuse his writing with a unique perspective. Peter’s journalistic prowess is evident in his ability to weave complex narratives into engaging stories. His work is not just informative but a journey through the multifaceted world of finance and societal dynamics, reflecting his commitment to excellence in journalism.
