Meta Launches Affordable $299 Smart Glasses Without Branding
Meta is expanding its footprint in the wearable technology market with the launch of a new, proprietary line of smart glasses. Moving away from its established collaborations with luxury eyewear brands, these devices carry the Meta name directly and start at a price point of $299.
Although the glasses are manufactured in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, this release marks a strategic shift as they lack the Ray-Ban or Oakley branding found on previous models. The devices are available starting today across several international markets.
Design and Hardware Specifications
The new hardware omits a visual display, focusing instead on audio and imaging capabilities. Each pair is equipped with:
- Integrated camera for capturing media.
- Personal speakers for audio playback.
- A dedicated control button that triggers Meta AI by default, though it can be remapped to other functions.
- Battery performance rated for over eight hours of continuous use.
- A charging case that provides up to 40 additional hours of battery life.
The collection launches with three distinct style options to suit different aesthetics:
- Meta Adventurer: A rectangular frame available in standard and large sizes.
- Meta Fury: A boxier frame design.
- Meta Glasses by Kylie: A slim, oval-framed collaboration with model Kylie Jenner.
AI Integration and Market Positioning
Meta is positioning these glasses as a multi-functional personal assistant. The onboard AI is capable of contextual awareness, allowing users to ask questions about their surroundings, receive information on sports scores, or get recommendations for local dining. Future software updates are expected to include turn-by-turn pedestrian navigation.
Additionally, the company is expanding its live translation capabilities, adding support for 14 new languages, including Mandarin, Japanese, Hindi, and Korean.
This rollout intensifies the competition in the wearable sector. According to Counterpoint Research, Meta and EssilorLuxottica currently command over 80% of the market share. The move also follows the recent announcement of Snap’s latest Specs, which arrived with a significantly higher price tag of $2,195.