Meta’s Own Smart Glasses Launch at $299

Meta has launched its first smart glasses not tied to the Ray-Ban or Oakley brands, aiming to make them more accessible. The new Meta Glasses start at $299, significantly cheaper than last year's Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2. Meta still partners with EssilorLuxottica for manufacturing and distribution.

The three models are Adventurer, Fury, and Starfire. Adventurer has a classic rectangular shape, Fury is similar but less boxy, and Starfire was codesigned with Kylie Jenner. The Starfire features a metal nose pad to avoid makeup absorption and includes a voice option of Jenner for Meta AI. All frames offer 26 customization options, including tinted lenses and colors like Racing Green or Sandstone.

Hardware is largely the same as the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2: 12-megapixel photos, 3K video, a five-microphone array, speakers, and touch controls. Battery life is around 8 hours, with the included case adding 40 hours. Meta also sells a new charging stand compatible with several models.

Meta improved comfort with adjustable nose pads, temple tips, and overextension hinges to fit various face shapes. On privacy, CTO Andrew Bosworth noted that the glasses include tamper-detection technology that blocks camera access if interference is detected, but called it a “cat and mouse game.” No facial recognition feature is present or planned.

The glasses are available for purchase now, including prescription options. Meta hopes the lower price and greater customization will drive adoption of smart glasses.