During the Connect event, held this Wednesday (23rd), Meta unveiled several new features, presenting camera-free smart glasses and other virtual reality devices, in addition to bringing updates to its line of glasses and a new hearing enhancement feature.
The hearing enhancement feature for smart glasses has received approval from the FDA, the United States regulatory agency, and will be gradually rolled out for compatible models in the Meta Glasses series. This feature was created to assist listeners in noisy environments, specifically targeting individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Using this tool does not require a medical prescription and can be configured by the user at home. It can be activated or deactivated using a voice command, by saying 'Hey Meta, start Hearing Enhancement'. The feature will have a thirty-day free trial period, after which it will cost US$ 149 (R$ 790) as a one-time payment or can be included in the Meta One subscription. Meta also stated that this feature is eligible for reimbursement through FSA and HSA programs in the United States, subject to verifying conditions with the user's insurer.
Additionally, Meta launched an update to its main smart glasses with cameras, the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3. This new model has an initial price of US$ 449 (R$ 2,380) and offers up to nine hours of battery life, one hour longer than the previous generation. The glasses feature a slimmer design and a new customizable action button that provides immediate access to Meta AI.
Other improvements include a set of six microphones, which, according to Meta, can reduce over 90% of background noise to optimize audio quality. The 12 MP camera is capable of capturing 3K resolution videos. The company also mentioned that in the future, the AI glasses cameras may be able to record videos with Dolby Atmos spatial audio. An additional function allows taking multiple photos of the same scene, enabling the user to select the best image, with Meta AI being able to suggest which shots are most suitable.
The Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 will be offered in 27 color and lens combinations, including two new styles: Aviator, a Ray-Ban classic, and Zena, with a cat-eye frame. The Wayfarer model will remain available. Meta also announced special editions, such as a creamy beige Aviator version with brown Transitions lenses, starting at US$ 579 (R$ 3,070), in limited edition. Furthermore, new partnerships were disclosed with Kylie Jenner and Lisa of Blackpink, with models starting at US$ 399 (R$ 2,110). The company plans to introduce new designs in its collection developed with EssilorLuxottica and aims to expand the presence of glasses in more markets.
More details about the glasses line
Meta also expanded its own line of smart glasses. The Meta Adventurer received a more affordable version, characterized by a black frame, gray lenses, and a fitted case, with an initial price of US$ 249 (R$ 1,320). Pre-orders for this product start immediately, with arrival in stores scheduled for October 23rd.
The Mix & Match program was presented, allowing consumers to customize their glasses by combining different frames, lenses, and case colors. The collection created in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica will gain two new styles, Capri and Nova, while the Kylie Jenner Starfire frame will have a new ivory option. New collections were also announced in partnership with Lisa of Blackpink.
Meta Glasses will begin to be sold in more nations, including Singapore, South Korea, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates. Availability in Brazil will be postponed. Meta also announced the expansion of the Meta Ray-Ban Display, smart glasses with an integrated screen. This product is already available in the UK and Canada and will arrive in France, Italy, and Germany on October 13th. The company will also increase online purchasing options in the United States and these markets.
In the US, the glasses can be purchased online for US$ 799 (R$ 4,230). In the UK, the price is £749, and in Canada, it starts at C$ 1,149. For France, Italy, and Germany, the starting price will be € 899.
Meta is also developing new features for the Ray-Ban Display. Among them are support for cyclist and public transport user guidance in the navigation tool, displaying information directly in the user's vision. The company will also allow the glasses to indicate a conversion based on a visible reference point in front of the user, instead of just providing step-by-step walking instructions.
The Ray-Ban Display will also support holograms in video calls. To create a personal avatar, image capture using the Meta AI app will be required. This feature will first be implemented in WhatsApp calls in the United States, in early access, still this Northern Hemisphere autumn. Additionally, Meta is launching the Explore app, which will provide access to a growing range of experiences designed for the glasses.
The Ray-Ban Display will also receive photo editing functionalities directly on the screen, calendar improvements, and mobile notification synchronization. The company also intends to incorporate the hologram feature seen in its virtual reality glasses into this model. Finally, Meta announced that it is working to integrate Muse, its new artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, into the smart glasses. When available, this agent can perform tasks such as guiding exercises, logging meals, scheduling appointments, and assisting in purchasing items viewed by the user. New capabilities for Muse include video calls with a personalized AI avatar, and Muse agents will have their own email addresses to complete tasks and interact with users.
