Meta has revealed a new line of smart glasses powered by its AI technology. This move signals the company's growing belief that these glasses will become an essential accessory for people everywhere.
During the company’s annual "Meta Connect" developer conference, CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced several new devices, including collaborations with Ray-Ban and Oakley. The company also introduced a new "neural wristband" that pairs with the glasses, allowing users to perform tasks like sending messages with simple hand gestures.
New Product Lineup
- Meta Ray-Ban Display: These glasses feature a full-color, high-resolution screen in one lens, which users can use for video calls and to view messages. They also have a 12-megapixel camera. They will be available this month for $799.
- Oakley Meta Vanguard: Priced at $499, these glasses are designed for sports enthusiasts.
- Second-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses: An update to the original model, these will sell for $379.
During his on-stage demonstration, Zuckerberg experienced a technical glitch when a WhatsApp call failed to connect repeatedly. Despite the hiccup, he emphasized that these smart accessories are a key platform for integrating Meta’s AI tool, Meta AI, into daily life.
Some analysts believe the glasses will be more successful than the company's multi-billion dollar Metaverse project. Mike Proulx, a Forrester VP, noted that glasses are a more practical "everyday, non-cumbersome form factor" compared to VR headsets. However, he added that Meta's main challenge is convincing people that the benefits are worth the cost. The company has reportedly sold about two million pairs of its smart glasses since entering the market in 2023.
Meta's AI Investments and Controversies
The new devices are part of a massive spending spree by Meta to expand its AI operations. Zuckerberg stated in July that the company plans to spend hundreds of billions of dollars on building large-scale AI data centers in the U.S. and is also hiring top talent from rival companies. The company’s long-term goal is to develop "superintelligence," or AI that can outperform humans.
Meanwhile, Meta continues to face scrutiny over the impact of its products on children. Activists and family members of suicide victims recently protested at Meta’s headquarters, demanding better safeguards for children on its platforms.
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