Meta has launched a new line of AI-powered smart glasses designed under its own brand, marking a significant shift from its previous reliance on partnerships with eyewear giants and signaling a deeper commitment to wearable technology.
The new Meta Glasses will start at $299, making them more affordable than the company’s latest Ray-Ban smart glasses, which retail from $379. The lower price point is part of Meta’s strategy to make its AI-powered wearables accessible to a wider audience as competition in the artificial intelligence market intensifies.
According to Meta Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth, expanding into different price segments is crucial to reaching more consumers. The new glasses represent a departure from the company’s co-branded products with Ray-Ban and Oakley. While Meta continues to collaborate with eyewear manufacturer EssilorLuxottica on certain components such as lenses, the new frames are designed directly by Meta.
Three New StylesThe glasses will be available in three designs: Adventurer – a smaller frameFury – a larger, rounded designMeta Glasses by Kylie – an oval-shaped model created in collaboration with Kylie JennerThe Kylie Jenner edition includes a custom startup sound and offers users the option of interacting with an AI-generated voice modeled after Jenner’s own.
AI Features and CapabilitiesLike Meta’s existing smart glasses, the new devices can: Play musicTranslate languages in real timeAnswer questions about surroundings using built-in Cameras recommend nearby locations and attractions
The glasses launch with Meta’s new Muse Spark AI model, which the company says improves image analysis and memory of user preferences. Existing Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses will receive the updated AI capabilities through software updates.
During demonstrations, the glasses successfully estimated calorie counts, translated Arabic text into English, identified objects, and suggested nearby museums. Competition and Consumer Challenges Despite the new features, industry analysts note that smart glasses still face challenges in convincing consumers they offer enough advantages over smartphones.
Market research firm Omdia says many buyers remain uncertain about the practical value of wearable AI devices, especially given their cost.However, industry forecasts suggest prices will continue falling. Research firm IDC predicts the average selling price of smart glasses will decline from about $376 in 2026 to around $229 by 2030, potentially boosting adoption.
Privacy Remains a ConcernMeta continues to face scrutiny over privacy issues linked to wearable cameras. Concerns have been raised about users recording people without their consent and sharing footage online.To address this, Meta says all of its smart glasses include a visible LED indicator that lights up whenever recording is taking place. The company also states that the camera cannot function if the indicator light is obstructed.
Bosworth acknowledged the challenge, describing privacy protection as an ongoing effort to stay ahead of misuse while ensuring bystanders can easily tell when recording is occurring. The launch highlights Meta’s determination to establish smart glasses as a mainstream AI device, even as questions remain about consumer demand, privacy, and the long-term role of wearable technology.
