Meta’s new cheaper AI glasses: Price, availability, where to buy and what’s changed
Meta has unveiled its latest generation of smart glasses priced at $299, marking a cheaper entry point into its growing artificial intelligence wearables lineup and undercutting its previous Ray-Ban Meta models.The new device is part of the company’s broader strategy to scale AI-powered hardware, ev
By Lekshmy Pavithran
Meta has unveiled its latest generation of smart glasses priced at $299, marking a cheaper entry point into its growing artificial intelligence wearables lineup and undercutting its previous Ray-Ban Meta models.The new device is part of the company’s broader strategy to scale AI-powered hardware, even as competition intensifies in the smart eyewear market..Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.
Ray-Ban branding dropped as Meta takes design controlThe newly launched Meta Glasses are developed in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban, but for the first time they do not carry Ray-Ban or Oakley branding.Meta said the move reflects a shift toward greater in-house design identity, while continuing to rely on EssilorLuxottica for lenses and manufacturing.
AI-powered features without a screenThe glasses do not include a display but come equipped with a built-in camera, open-ear speakers and Meta AI integration.Users can use voice commands to:Translate languages in real timeGet contextual answers about surroundingsCapture photos and record videos hands-freeAccess calls, messages and music playbackMeta said the product is designed as a step towards more advanced augmented reality glasses with in-lens displays in the future.
New designs and personalisation optionsThe glasses are being launched in three frame styles: Meta Adventurer, Meta Fury, and a slim oval design branded as Meta Glasses by Kylie.They come in multiple colours and lens options, including sun, clear, polarised and Transitions lenses, with support for prescription fittings.The company said the goal is to position the product as both a fashion accessory and an AI-powered device.
Price, availability and where to buyThe Meta Glasses are priced at $299, making them at least $80 cheaper than the company’s entry-level second-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.They are available in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and several European markets including France, Germany, Italy and Spain.Customers can buy them via Meta.com, Amazon, Best Buy, LensCrafters, Sunglass Hut, and other authorised retailers, as well as Meta Lab stores for in-person trials.
AI features and everyday use casesPowered by Meta AI, the glasses enable hands-free interaction through voice commands and real-time visual understanding.Key capabilities include:Sports scores, news updates and local recommendationsCalendar, reminders and daily task managementLive translation in more than 20 languagesHands-free photo and video capture up to 3K resolutionMusic, calls and messaging via open-ear audioMeta said the system is designed to respond based on what users are seeing in real time.
Software upgrades and future updatesMeta also outlined upcoming enhancements, including:Dynamic Photo: captures multiple frames and selects the best shotPedestrian navigation: turn-by-turn walking directions for screen-free glassesExpanded live translation support in 14 additional languages, including Hindi, Japanese, Mandarin and KoreanThe company said regular updates will expand functionality over time.Battery life, design and accessoriesThe glasses offer:Over 8 hours of battery life per chargeCharging case with up to 40 hours additional powerNew charging stand for desktop useAdjustable nose pads and custom fit optionsOpen-ear audio for calls, music and podcastsMeta said the device is designed for all-day use without requiring a smartphone in hand..Zuckerberg doubles down on AI wearablesMeta has struggled to scale its virtual reality ambitions beyond gaming, but smart glasses have emerged as a stronger consumer product line as the company pivots toward artificial intelligence hardware.Executives say the new devices are part of a long-term strategy to build a computing platform centred on AI assistants embedded in everyday wearables.
Growing competition in smart eyewearCompetition in the smart glasses market is accelerating.Google is developing AI-enabled eyewear with Warby Parker using its Gemini model, while Snap has launched its high-end Specs glasses priced at $2,195, positioning them as a potential smartphone alternative.Despite rising competition, Meta and EssilorLuxottica continue to dominate the segment, holding an estimated majority share with millions of units sold since 2021.Meta’s long-term AI hardware pushMeta executives said smart glasses are central to the company’s shift toward AI-first computing, as virtual reality growth remains limited outside gaming.The strategy focuses on building wearable devices that embed AI assistants into everyday life, reducing reliance on smartphones.
What to know about Meta smart glassesWhat is the price?$299.Where are they available?US, UK, Canada, Australia and several European markets via Meta.com and major retailers.Do they have a screen?No, they are screen-free and rely on audio, camera and voice AI.How long does the battery last?Up to 8 hours per charge, plus 40 hours with the charging case.Do they support prescription lenses?Yes, with single vision and progressive lens options within supported ranges.Which languages does live translation support?More than 20 languages, including English, Hindi, Arabic, Japanese and Mandarin..Meta launches paid Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp plans with AI push.Samsung's smart glasses debut with Gentle Monster is a turning point for AI wearables.Samsung confirms Galaxy AI glasses and new earbuds: Cameras, price and what we know so far.Meta strikes $100 billion AMD chip deal to power next-gen AI push