Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses
| Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Augmented Reality |
| Type | Smart Glasses |
| Subtype | Standalone AR |
| Platform | Meta |
| Creator | Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook) and EssilorLuxottica |
| Developer | Meta Platforms, Inc. and EssilorLuxottica |
| Manufacturer | EssilorLuxottica |
| Announcement Date | September 27, 2023 |
| Release Date | October 17, 2023 |
| Price | $299-$379 USD (depending on lens options) |
| Website | https://www.meta.com/ai-glasses/ |
| Versions | Ray-Ban Meta (2nd generation smart glasses) |
| Requires | Smartphone with Meta View app |
| Predecessor | Ray-Ban Stories (1st generation, released September 2021) |
| System | |
| Operating System | Custom Meta OS |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 |
| Storage | |
| Storage | 32GB |
| SD Card Slot | No |
| Display | |
| Display | No built-in display |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Optics | Available with: Clear, Polarized, Transitions, Prescription lenses |
| Tracking | |
| Audio | |
| Audio | Open-ear speakers with bass-reflex system |
| Microphone | 5-microphone array |
| 3.5mm Audio Jack | No |
| Camera | Single 12MP ultra-wide camera |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ports | USB-C (on charging case) |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Power | Rechargeable battery |
| Battery Capacity | 154 mAh |
| Battery Life | Approximately 3-4 hours of active use; 36 hours with charging case |
| Charge Time | Full charge in approximately 1 hour 15 minutes; 50% in 20 minutes |
| Device | |
| Weight | 48.6g (Wayfarer), 50.8g (Wayfarer Large), 49.2g (Headliner) |
| Color | Multiple color options; Wayfarer and Headliner styles |
| Input | Touch controls, voice commands |
Overview
Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses are smart glasses developed through a partnership between Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook) and EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban. Announced on September 27, 2023, during the annual Meta Connect event and released on October 17, 2023, these glasses represent the second generation of the companies' collaboration, following the first-generation Ray-Ban Stories released in 2021.[1][2]
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses combine the iconic Ray-Ban eyewear designs with advanced technology including cameras, microphones, speakers, and artificial intelligence capabilities. Unlike conventional AR glasses, they do not include a built-in display or head-mounted display (HMD). Instead, they focus on capturing photos and videos, audio features, and AI-powered assistance through voice interaction.[1]
Design and Hardware
Frames and Styles
Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses maintain the classic Ray-Ban aesthetic while integrating modern technology. They are available in two primary styles:[3]
- Wayfarer - The iconic and most recognizable Ray-Ban frame design since the 1950s
- Headliner - A more inclusive and universal fitting design introduced with this generation
The glasses come in seven different colors, with some options offering see-through frames that showcase the internal components. Ray-Ban also offers a "Remix" customization platform that allows users to create over 130 unique color and style combinations.[2]
In April 2024, Meta and Ray-Ban introduced additional styles including:[4]
- Skyler - Features a cat-eye design inspired by vintage jet-set style, designed for smaller faces
- Headliner low bridge fit - Modified version for different face shapes
- Ray-Ban Meta for Scuderia Limited Edition - Special Ferrari-branded colorway
Technical Specifications
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses contain sophisticated technology packed into a lightweight frame that weighs between 48.6g and 50.8g depending on the model:[5][3]
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1
- Camera: Single 12MP ultra-wide camera (upgraded from dual 5MP cameras in the previous generation)
- Video: 1080p video recording at 30 FPS with enhanced stabilization
- Audio: Integrated open-ear speakers with improved bass response
- Microphones: 5-microphone array (upgraded from 3 in the previous generation)
- Storage: 32GB (8x more than the 4GB in Ray-Ban Stories)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3
- Battery: 154 mAh battery with approximately 3-4 hours of active use
- Charging: Includes a portable charging case that enables up to 36 hours of total use
Features and Functionality
Camera and Media Capture
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses feature significant camera improvements over the first generation:[3]
- 12MP photos (upgraded from 5MP)
- 1080p video recording (upgraded from 780p)
- Portrait orientation optimized for social media sharing
- Enhanced video stabilization
- Ability to store 500+ photos or 100+ 30-second videos
- Livestreaming capabilities to Instagram and Facebook
Users control media capture through touch controls on the temple of the glasses or voice commands. A LED indicator light illuminates when the camera is active to alert people nearby that recording is taking place.[1]
Audio Features
The glasses include discreet open-ear speakers that allow users to listen to audio while remaining aware of their surroundings:[6]
- Music streaming from services including Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, and iHeart Radio
- Phone call management
- Voice messaging
- Ambient sound awareness (unlike traditional headphones that block external sounds)
Meta AI Integration
One of the most significant features of the Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses is the integration of Meta AI, a multimodal artificial intelligence assistant that can be activated with the voice command "Hey Meta." The AI capabilities include:[4][7]
- Multimodal Visual AI: The glasses can "see" what the wearer is looking at and provide information about it
- Translation: Ability to translate text the user is viewing in foreign languages
- Object and landmark recognition: Identification and information about objects and places in view
- Hands-free information retrieval: Answer questions and provide information without requiring a phone
- Memory features: Help remember where items are located or where the user parked
- QR code scanning: Scan and send links directly to the user's phone
In later updates, Meta added more advanced capabilities including:[7]
- Live speech translation for conversations in Spanish, French, and Italian
- Video calling through WhatsApp and Messenger
- Voice message recording and sending
- Integration with accessibility services like Be My Eyes for visually impaired users
Software and App Integration
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses are managed through the Meta View mobile application (formerly known as Facebook View), which allows users to:[1]
- Import, edit, and manage photos and videos captured with the glasses
- Share content to social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and others
- Monitor battery levels and device status
- Control device settings and update firmware
The app requires users to log in with their Meta account and is available for both iOS and Android devices.[1]
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life remains one of the primary limitations of the Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses:[8][6]
- The glasses contain a 154 mAh battery
- Typical usage provides approximately 3-4 hours of active use
- Heavy use of AI features, music playback, or video recording significantly reduces battery life
- The included charging case can recharge the glasses multiple times, extending total usage time to around 36 hours
- Charging the glasses to 50% takes approximately 20 minutes
- A full charge takes about 1 hour 15 minutes
- The charging case itself recharges via USB-C in 3-4 hours
Accessibility and Use Cases
Beyond their consumer applications, the Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses offer potential benefits for accessibility:[1][7]
- Visual impairments: The AI can describe surroundings, read text aloud, and provide directions
- Language barriers: Real-time translation features help overcome communication challenges
- Hands-free operation: Allows users to access information and capture moments while keeping their hands free
Privacy and Ethical Considerations
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses have raised several privacy and ethical concerns:[1]
- The glasses look like conventional sunglasses, making it difficult for others to know when recording is taking place
- Although there is an LED indicator light when the camera is active, critics question its visibility, especially in bright conditions
- The multiple microphones raise concerns about potential eavesdropping
- The integration with Meta's ecosystem requires consideration of data privacy policies
Meta has published guidelines for responsible use, including respecting personal boundaries and turning off the device in sensitive environments.[1]
Market Position and Reception
The Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses have proven popular since their release. By February 2025, Meta reported selling approximately 2 million units, with plans to increase production capacity to 10 million units annually by the end of 2026.[9]
Reviews have generally highlighted the glasses' impressive technology integration while maintaining a stylish, wearable design. Common criticisms include limited battery life and camera quality that, while improved, still lags behind smartphone cameras.[5][6]
Future Developments
According to reports, Meta has several smart glasses products planned for the future:[9]
- Hypernova (2025): Smart glasses with a heads-up display (HUD)
- Aperol & Bellini (2026): Next generation of mainstream smart glasses with enhanced AI capabilities, potentially including facial recognition and extended AI session duration
- Hypernova 2 (2027): Binocular HUD glasses
- Orion/Artemis (2027): True AR glasses with more advanced augmented reality features
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Wikipedia. "Ray-Ban Meta." Retrieved May 13, 2025. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "wiki" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 2.0 2.1 EssilorLuxottica. "Ray-Ban and Meta launch the next generation of smart glasses." September 27, 2023. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "essilux" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Moor Insights & Strategy. "Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Review: Better, Cooler, and More Useful Than Ever." December 20, 2023. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "moorinsights" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 4.0 4.1 Meta. "New Ray-Ban | Meta Smart Glasses Styles and Meta AI Updates." April 25, 2024. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "metaupdate" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 5.0 5.1 TechRadar. "Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses review: the best AI wearable, but still not perfect." July 3, 2024. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "techradar" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 Next Reality. "Ray-Ban Meta Review: Smart Glasses That Actually Make Sense?" March 10, 2025. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "nextreality" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Meta. "Ray-Ban | Meta Glasses Are Getting New AI Features and More Partner Integrations." September 25, 2024. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "metaai" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ Laptop Mag. "Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses review: A glimpse into what glasses could be." September 29, 2024. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "laptopmag" defined multiple times with different content - ↑ 9.0 9.1 UploadVR. "Next-Gen Ray-Ban Meta Glasses Could Recognize Faces In 2026." May 12, 2025. Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; name "uploadvr" defined multiple times with different content