In a bold move to redefine personal accessories, Meta has officially unveiled a new range of smart glasses powered by its cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This announcement came during the annual developers conference, Meta Connect, where CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the potential of these glasses to become essential items for consumers worldwide.
During the event, Zuckerberg revealed a collaboration with renowned sunglasses brands Ray-Ban and Oakley. This partnership aims to merge fashion with technology, offering users stylish yet functional devices. Among the highlights is the introduction of a unique neural wristband that pairs with the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, empowering users to perform tasks such as sending messages with simple hand gestures.
The Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses feature a full-color, high-resolution screen embedded in one lens, enabling users to conduct video calls and view messages effortlessly. In addition, these glasses are equipped with a powerful 12-megapixel camera, making them ideal for capturing moments on the go. Zuckerberg referred to this technological advancement as a significant scientific breakthrough during his presentation to a captivated audience at the company’s Silicon Valley campus.
Zuckerberg expressed his vision that Meta's smart accessories will serve as a key platform for integrating its artificial intelligence tool, Meta AI, into everyday life. According to industry analysts, these smart glasses may prove to be more successful than Meta's ambitious multi-billion dollar Metaverse project, which aims to create virtual worlds for users to explore and connect.
Unlike cumbersome VR headsets, smart glasses are seen as a more practical, everyday accessory. Mike Proulx, VP and Research Director at Forrester, noted that the challenge lies in convincing the vast majority of potential users who currently do not own AI glasses that the benefits justify the investment. While Meta has not disclosed specific sales figures, it is estimated that around two million pairs of smart glasses have been sold since entering the market in 2023.
The highly anticipated Meta Ray-Ban Display will be available this month, retailing for $799 (£586), a price point significantly higher than Meta's existing smart glasses. Leo Gebbie from CCS Insight expressed skepticism regarding the new models gaining traction like their predecessors. He noted that the original Ray-Bans succeeded due to their ease of use, inconspicuous design, and relatively affordable price.
In addition to the Ray-Ban models, Zuckerberg also introduced the $499 Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, specifically designed for sports enthusiasts. The second generation of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses will be priced at $379, offering consumers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets.
Currently, Meta is amidst a massive spending spree aimed at enhancing its AI operations. In July, Zuckerberg revealed plans to invest hundreds of billions of dollars into constructing extensive AI data centers across the United States, with one site projected to be nearly the size of Manhattan. This infrastructure investment is further bolstered by aggressive hiring of top talent from competing firms, as Meta aims to develop what it calls superintelligence, AI technology designed to outthink human capabilities.
