Meta Platforms Inc. has officially launched its latest innovation, the Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, at the recent Meta Connect event. This new iteration combines style with cutting-edge technology, aiming to enhance user experience in virtual and augmented reality.
Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s founder and CEO, unveiled the Meta Ray-Ban Display, which boasts a discreet display on the right lens. This feature allows wearers to receive notifications, directions, and access various applications while maintaining the classic aesthetic of Ray-Ban eyewear.
Key features of the Meta Ray-Ban Display include gesture control through the Meta Neural Band, an accessory that picks up user movements, and an integrated AI assistant for voice commands. This smart eyewear also comes equipped with a built-in camera, speakers, and microphone, offering functionalities similar to those of a smartphone.
The Meta Ray-Ban Display represents a significant leap from its predecessor, offering an enhanced way to engage with social media and access content on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. By owning both the hardware and software, Meta aims to reduce its dependency on third-party devices for user interaction.
Availability is set for the end of this month, with pre-orders opening in several countries, including the U.S. and Canada, at a price of $799. Popularity among users could mark a turning point for Meta, which has previously released devices that required connection to smartphones and PCs.
In addition to the Ray-Ban Display, Meta also announced an upgraded version of the standard Ray-Ban smart glasses, featuring improved battery life and a “conversation focus” mode that enhances speech clarity in noisy environments, priced at $379.
Moreover, Meta’s collaboration with Oakley has resulted in the Oakley Meta Vanguard, designed specifically for high-intensity sports. This model integrates fitness applications and boasts a durable design, offering unique features for athletes.
Transitioning from smart glasses to immersive experiences, Meta introduced Hyperscape for its Quest VR headset. This innovative technology enables users to scan their surroundings and recreate these spaces in a virtual environment, promising a new level of immersion for users. Hyperscape is currently in early access and is expected to evolve, allowing users to invite others into their virtual spaces in the future.
As Meta pushes the boundaries of wearable technology and virtual reality, the introduction of the Ray-Ban Display and Hyperscape represents a strategic step in the company’s commitment to enhancing user engagement and experience in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
