This year, we shared the progress we’ve made towards our future vision and the next era of social computing. Here’s a look at our top three trending stories showcasing recent advances in AI, VR, and adapting to the new work environment.

We’re developing AI to break down language barriers. Meta Software Engineer Peng-Jen Chen is leading the development of new AI technology that’s designed to translate speech in real time. Chen and his team of researchers are among the first to use artificial intelligence to construct a translation system for languages like Hokkien that lack a formal or widely known writing system.

This year, our Display Systems Research (DSR) team shared a deep dive on their work to build a new VR display technology stack that may one day help the metaverse to be as vivid and detailed as the physical world. In order to get there, we need to pass the “visual Turing Test” — a phrase DSR adopted and helped to popularize alongside leading academic teams that evaluates whether what’s displayed in a VR headset can be distinguished from the real world.

VP of Engineering, Data Infrastructure Aparna Ramani discusses her experience as a leader in a largely male-dominated industry, her thoughts on the future, and what qualities are critical for business leaders in a post-pandemic environment.

As the new year approaches, we look forward to sharing more of the work that will get us closer to our vision for the future and the coming metaverse. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for all the latest news.