According to a recent review from The Verge, Meta has introduced new smart glasses that no longer carry the Ray-Ban branding but still benefit from EssilorLuxottica collaboration. This shift supports a more accessible price point and fresh design options while maintaining many features of previous Meta-RaynBan models.
- New Meta smart glasses start at $299, $80 less than Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2
- Multiple styles including a Kylie Jenner collaboration with Y2K-inspired design
- Strong fit customization and extensive prescription support
Product angle
The Verge review highlights that Meta has launched smart glasses without Ray-Ban branding for the first time, continuing their collaboration with EssilorLuxottica behind the scenes. This move aims to deliver similar technology seen in prior Ray-Ban Meta products but at a lower price point, broadening access to wearable smart eyewear. The product line includes three different styles and seven colors, with one style notably designed alongside Kylie Jenner, adding a fashion-forward edge.
Noteworthy features include improved battery life compared to the Ray-Ban Meta Optics Styles and an emphasis on comfort through adjustable nose pads and temple tips. The glasses support wide prescription ranges and have hinges designed to accommodate wider face shapes. However, the association with Meta brings privacy scrutiny, especially in light of reports about the company developing facial recognition capabilities for their smart glasses.
Best for / avoid if
Meta’s new smart glasses are best suited for tech-savvy consumers interested in stylish smart eyewear at a more affordable price point. Those who wear prescription glasses will appreciate the broad support for lenses and customizable fit features. Additionally, fans of contemporary design might be drawn to the Kylie Jenner edition and diverse styling options offered by Meta.
Potential buyers concerned about privacy and data collection should exercise caution given Meta’s history and recent disclosures about facial recognition development. Individuals seeking a more traditional or secure device without ties to a major social media company's ecosystem might want to consider alternatives or wait for more clarity on privacy protections before purchasing.
Pricing and alternatives to check
The new Meta smart glasses retail starting at $299, marking about an $80 reduction versus the earlier Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 models. This pricing strategy targets consumers seeking entry-level smart eyewear without sacrificing core technical features. Despite dropping the Ray-Ban branding, the glasses still benefit from EssilorLuxottica’s design expertise and manufacturing capabilities, which supports quality and style.
When exploring alternatives, prospective buyers might compare these Meta glasses against existing smart glasses from Google, Samsung, and Gentle Monster, which offer competitive designs and features. Those seeking less expensive or more privacy-conscious options might also evaluate non-Meta brands that emphasize data security or provide more traditional eyewear aesthetics without smart features.