Meta has unveiled a new line of smart glasses powered by artificial intelligence. The company wants them to become essential accessories worldwide.
Innovations revealed at Meta Connect
At the Meta Connect developer conference, CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced several devices created with Ray-Ban and Oakley. A neural wristband was a key highlight. It connects with the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses and allows users to send messages with subtle hand gestures.
The announcement comes as Meta faces ongoing criticism over its platforms. Campaigners emphasize risks to children. Zuckerberg described the technology as a “huge scientific breakthrough” while speaking to hundreds of attendees at the Silicon Valley campus.
Features of the smart glasses
The Meta Ray-Ban Display includes a high-resolution color screen in one lens. Users can make video calls and read messages directly in view. The device also features a 12-megapixel camera.
Zuckerberg expects the glasses to become a primary tool for integrating Meta AI into everyday life. Analysts predict the product could outperform the expensive Metaverse project. Virtual worlds have yet to attract large audiences.
“Unlike VR headsets, glasses are practical and lightweight,” said Mike Proulx, Research Director at Forrester. He added: “Meta still needs to prove the benefits justify the price.”
Prices and market outlook
Meta has not released official sales numbers. Industry estimates suggest around two million smart glasses sold since 2023. The new Display model launches this month at $799, roughly £586. That is significantly higher than Meta’s earlier models.
Leo Gebbie of CCS Insight doubts the Display will match past success. “Ray-Bans sold well because they are subtle, simple, and affordable,” he said.
Zuckerberg also revealed Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses for athletes at $499. In addition, the second generation of Ray-Ban Meta glasses launched at $379.
Expanding AI investment
Meta is investing heavily in artificial intelligence. In July, Zuckerberg announced hundreds of billions of dollars for new US data centers. One site will be nearly the size of Manhattan.
The company is also recruiting leading experts from rival firms. Its long-term goal is to develop “superintelligence,” AI that surpasses human capabilities.
Activists demand stronger safeguards
On Wednesday, parents and activists protested outside Meta’s New York headquarters. They called for stricter protections for children on the company’s platforms.
Last week, two former Meta safety researchers testified before the US Senate. They claimed Meta concealed risks to children from its virtual products. Jason Sattizahn and Cayce Savage said the company blocked research that might expose harm.
Meta denied the accusations and dismissed them as “nonsense.”
