On Wednesday, the 23rd, during the Connect 2026 conference, Meta unveiled its first smart glasses equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and devoid of a camera. These new devices, named Ray-Ban Meta Audio, were designed to mitigate concerns raised about the more controversial uses of the company's AI glasses.
Unlike other models offered by the company, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio operate solely with audio functionalities. They allow users to listen to music and podcasts, make calls, translate speech, and interact with Meta's AI assistant, known as Muse.
The development of this product was carried out in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, Meta's partner in AI-focused hardware projects. The initial price set for the device is US$ 349 (equivalent to R$ 1,850).
Statement on the new product category
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg commented during the presentation that after developing the idea, the company identified the possibility of creating a new line of products centered on audio glasses. He asked the public: 'Once you get used to high-quality audio, it's simply something you want all the time, right?'
The decision to eliminate cameras also helped Meta design a thinner device compared to its previous models. The Ray-Ban Meta Audio weighs 43 grams and includes adjustable arms, replaceable nose pads, and hinges with protection against excessive stretching.
Battery life can reach 12 hours on a single charge, according to Meta. When used with the provided charging case, this duration can be extended up to 48 hours. The glasses will be available in various color options and combinations, totaling 23 color and lens arrangements, in addition to two new frame designs.
Among the new styles are the Clubmaster, which recalls the retro look of Ray-Ban models, and the Burbank, characterized as a classic and timeless rectangular frame. As with other Meta smart glasses, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio can be ordered with corrective lenses, if necessary.
Pre-sales of these glasses will begin on October 13th.
Next Generation with Camera
In addition to the camera-free glasses, Meta also presented the next version of its smart glasses equipped with a camera, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3). This line will maintain the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer model and introduce two new styles: Aviator and Zena, the latter featuring a frame shape closer to a cat-eye style.
The renewed models will feature a 12 MP camera capable of recording videos in 3K Ultra HD resolution, along with a six-microphone system and a battery that lasts up to nine hours. The glasses, developed by Meta in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, will also receive an increase in the variety of available colors and styles.
The company also announced a new collaboration with singer Lisa, following a previous work with Kylie Jenner. Meta reported that the glasses will be launched in more countries globally. All of Meta's AI smart glasses will have access to Muse, the company's new AI personal assistant.
Meta anticipated several features that will be implemented in the devices. Innovations include Dolby Atmos Capture, a function that selects the best image among multiple captured frames, and the option to choose between landscape and portrait formats. The company is also working on auditory enhancement features for people with hearing impairments, more detailed responses, different audio modes, and customizable controls.
Another highlighted feature is the so-called 'private processing,' which, according to Meta, prevents the company itself from accessing user data.
