Meta and EssilorLuxottica, the Ray–Ban brand’s owner, just announced their second-generation Meta smart glasses. The two companies redesigned the glasses from the ground up, improved the core features, and added new ones to the mix.
Conspicuously missing the Stories name from the first generation, the second generation is now lighter and slimmer than the previous generation. Two models are available – one is based on Ray-Ban’s signature Wayfarer style, while the second is a brand-new Headliner design for a more retro look. Better yet, both frames are prescription-lens compatible.
Not only are the frames lighter, but it is also now rated IPX4 water resistant, so some light splashes of water are fine – it is not rain-proof, so no running in the rain. Meta also improved the touchpad for better touch controls while on the move. Additionally, users can now call the built-in Meta AI by calling out “Hey Meta” to interact with it. A caveat though – Meta AI features will be available in the US in beta only at launch.
“By saying ‘Hey Meta,’ you can engage with Meta AI to spark creativity, get information, and control features — just by using your voice,” the company says.
The cameras are now ultra-wide 12MP cameras, and the glasses are now powered by the all-new Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 Platform. Meta claims faster processing for higher-quality photo and video processing. This means 12MP photos and 1080p videos for up to one minute long.
The battery life also sees an upgrade – you now can use the glasses for up to 36 hours – that is about 8 full charges of the glasses – with the charging case that Ray-Ban designed to look like a regular glasses case. A small ring of light on the front indicates charging statuses for the glasses and the case, which you can charge using USB-C.
Another new feature that Meta introduced is hands-free live streaming to Facebook or Instagram. Users can even engage with the audience – just tap and hold the side of the glasses and the comments will be read out loud via text-to-speech through the built-in speakers in the stem of the glasses. Facebook limits the live streaming up to 30 minutes at a time.
The glasses are now on preorder from the official Meta and Ray-Ban pages from USD 299 (about RM1,408) and will be available for open purchase from October 17. Unfortunately, there is no news if the glasses will be heading our way.
