Smart Glasses That Are Actually Smart: Meta x Ray-Ban Releases AI Set
Renowned as “the next generation of smart glasses,” this new product allows consumers to interact with AI wherever they go.
Photo Source: Ray-Ban via Wired
Meta in partnership with Ray-Ban and EssilorLuxottica has launched an upgraded set of smart glasses, integrated with livestream and artificial intelligence technology.
Renowned as “the next generation of smart glasses,” it allows consumers to interact with AI wherever they go.
The initial version, known as “Ray-Ban Stories: First-Generation Smart Glasses,” was developed in 202. It offers audio to text features, and consumers who purchased this version received a free software update in 2022 adding visual components.
The goal of the first software update was to add a camera, allowing the glasses to not only hear the user, but see everything the user sees. Real-world examples of this feature include translating signs, naming prominent buildings and solving visible maintenance issues, such as fixing leaky sink faucets. The long-term goal of these smart glasses is to include holograms.
The newest release of the Ray-Ban x Meta Smart Glasses has finally launched, and we’re here to give you a rundown of every advancement, as well as where to find it.
For improved audio, the new pair includes custom speakers with extended bass, a 50 percent higher maximum volume and improved directional audio. This is intended to improve the consumer experience with calls, music and podcasts. There’s also a new microphone to support immersive audio recording during videos.
A new ultra-wide 12 MP camera improves the quality of your photos and videos. You can also send photos to friends and family through a simple voice command.
The glasses will come with a redesigned charging case, holding up to eight additional charges or 36 hours of use. The case isn’t the only thing redesigned, as the glasses themselves are available in 150 new custom frame and lens combinations. This redesign has also made them lighter, slimmer and water-resistant.
Last, but certainly not least, users can now livestream from the glasses to Facebook or Instagram, notably both Meta platforms. It’s hands-free, just tap the side of your glasses and speak out loud. Similar to Siri, you can call out “Hey Meta” and interact with Meta AI’s conversational assistant. I don’t know about you, but I sense a little competition here…
Now, what you’ve been waiting for, where can you buy a pair? The Ray-Ban x Meta Smart Glasses are available both in retail stores and online at Ray-Ban.com and Meta.com for $299 USD.
With all news centered on AR and VR glasses, Meta has certainly snuck their way past competition with AI smart glasses. We are curious to see how notable competition, such as Apple and Microsoft, react. For now, with AI on the rise, we think these glasses have a lot of potential (and probably could have sold for more), but that’s our opinion. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Best,
Ariana for the Don’t Count Us Out Yet Team