Meta has unveiled a new generation of smart glasses powered by artificial intelligence. The company wants them to become essential accessories worldwide.
Meta Connect showcases new technology
At the Meta Connect developer conference, CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced several devices developed with Ray-Ban and Oakley. A neural wristband was a standout feature. It pairs with the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses and allows users to send messages using subtle hand gestures.
The reveal comes as Meta faces ongoing scrutiny over the impact of its platforms. Activists warn particularly about risks to children. Zuckerberg called the launch a “huge scientific breakthrough” while addressing hundreds of attendees at the Silicon Valley campus.
Capabilities of the smart glasses
The Meta Ray-Ban Display integrates a high-resolution color screen into one lens. Users can make video calls and read messages directly. The glasses also include a 12-megapixel camera.
Zuckerberg expects the glasses to serve as a main channel for integrating Meta AI into everyday life. Analysts suggest the product could outperform the costly Metaverse project. Virtual worlds have yet to attract mass adoption.
“Unlike VR headsets, glasses are practical and lightweight,” said Mike Proulx, Research Director at Forrester. He added: “Meta still needs to prove to consumers that the benefits justify the cost.”
Pricing and market outlook
Meta has not released official sales figures. Industry sources estimate around two million smart glasses sold since 2023. The new Display model launches this month at $799, about £586. That is significantly higher than previous models.
Leo Gebbie of CCS Insight doubts the Display will match previous successes. “Ray-Bans sold well because they are discreet, simple, and affordable,” he explained.
Zuckerberg also introduced Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses for athletes, priced at $499. The second generation of Ray-Ban Meta glasses launched at $379.
Expanding AI investment
Meta is investing billions into artificial intelligence. In July, Zuckerberg announced hundreds of billions of dollars for new US data centers. One site will cover nearly the size of Manhattan.
The company is also hiring top talent from rival firms. Its long-term goal is to develop “superintelligence,” AI capable of surpassing human abilities.
Activists demand stronger protections
On Wednesday, parents and activists protested outside Meta’s New York headquarters. They demanded stricter safeguards for children on the company’s platforms.
Last week, two former Meta safety researchers testified before the US Senate. They claimed Meta concealed potential risks to children from virtual products. Jason Sattizahn and Cayce Savage said the company blocked research that could reveal harm.
Meta denied the allegations and called them “nonsense.”
