Camera-Free Design to Address Privacy Concerns
Meta has introduced the Ray-Ban Meta Audio at its Connect 2026 conference, a pair of camera-free, audio-only smart glasses aimed at alleviating privacy issues associated with previous camera-equipped models. These new glasses allow users to listen to music, podcasts, make calls, translate speech, and interact with Meta’s AI assistant, Muse.
Lightweight and Versatile Features
Developed in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses are designed to be slimmer than Meta’s previous models, weighing only 43 grams. They offer a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge, which can extend to 48 hours with the included charging case. The glasses feature adjustable temple tips, swappable nose pads, and overextension hinges, and will be available in 23 different color and lens combinations. Two new styles are being introduced: a retro-inspired “Clubmaster” and a classic rectangular “Burbank” design. Customers can also order the glasses with their optical prescriptions if needed.
Addressing Past Criticism
The Ray-Ban Meta Audio is specifically designed to avoid the privacy criticisms that have plagued earlier smart glasses, which were often referred to as “pervert glasses” due to misuse by some users. Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the opportunity to create a new category focused on audio glasses, highlighting the demand for high-quality audio experiences.
Upcoming Features and Enhancements
Meta has outlined additional software capabilities that will be available, including hearing enhancements for users with hearing loss, more detailed responses from the AI assistant, customizable audio modes, and a feature called “private processing” that aims to protect user data from Meta’s access. The company also teased future support for Dolby Atmos Capture and a feature that selects the best photo from multiple frames.
Next-Generation Glasses and Availability
In addition to the Ray-Ban Meta Audio, Meta announced the upcoming Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3), which will include cameras. This model will feature a 12 MP sensor capable of 3K Ultra HD video, a six-mic array, and a battery life of up to nine hours. The Ray-Ban line will also see an expansion in styles and colors, along with new brand partnerships, including one with singer Lisa, following a previous collaboration with Kylie Jenner.
Preorders for the Ray-Ban Meta Audio will begin on October 13, with a starting price of $349.
Original source: TechCrunch AI