Meta’s New Smart Glasses Launch This Week: Here’s What to Expect
▼ Summary
– Meta’s Connect conference will feature announcements on smart glasses, AI updates, and the metaverse, with a keynote by CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
– New smart glasses with a display in the right lens, controlled via a wristband using sEMG technology, are expected to be announced and cost around $800.
– Third-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses without a display may be introduced, building on the success of previous models that have sold 2 million pairs.
– No new Quest VR headset is anticipated this year, but Meta is working on an ultra-light headset for 2026 and has licensed Horizon OS to partners like Lenovo and Asus.
– Meta will likely highlight AI features for its apps and hardware, including upgrades to existing smart glasses and the standalone Meta AI app.
The tech world’s attention turns to Meta’s annual Connect conference this week, where smart glasses and AI advancements are poised to take center stage. Industry watchers anticipate several major hardware reveals alongside updates on the company’s artificial intelligence initiatives and metaverse ambitions. CEO Mark Zuckerberg will deliver a keynote address expected to outline Meta’s vision for the future of wearable technology and digital interaction.
Among the most anticipated announcements are new smart glasses featuring a small display embedded in the right lens. These glasses will reportedly be controlled using hand gestures detected by a specialized wristband. The display offers a limited field of view designed for showing brief notifications rather than immersive content. This project, internally known as Hypernova, has been in development since at least 2022.
The accompanying wristband utilizes surface electromyography (sEMG) technology acquired through Meta’s purchase of startup CTRL-Labs in 2019. This innovative system interprets electrical signals generated by hand movements, allowing for precise control without physical contact. Meta has expressed strong confidence in sEMG’s potential, suggesting it could fundamentally change how people interact with digital devices. The glasses are expected to carry a price tag around $800 and may appear somewhat bulkier than previous models. Leaked promotional material appears to confirm the upcoming launch of these display-equipped glasses under the Meta | Ray-Ban branding.
Alongside the high-tech models, Meta seems ready to introduce updated versions of its popular camera-equipped smart glasses without displays. The current Ray-Ban Meta glasses have proven remarkably successful, with manufacturer EssilorLuxottica reporting sales exceeding two million units. The third-generation models may incorporate improvements seen in recent limited edition Oakley collaborations, including enhanced video resolution and extended battery performance. Another potential newcomer is the wraparound “Sphaera” Oakley design featuring a camera mounted on the nose bridge.
While virtual reality headsets have traditionally been Connect highlights, this year may bring fewer VR announcements. Having recently launched the Quest 3 and Quest 3S, Meta’s next major headset appears to be an ultra-lightweight model that processes information through a separate computing unit. This device, running on Horizon OS, isn’t expected until 2026. However, Meta’s decision to license its Horizon operating system to partners like Lenovo and Asus could yield surprises, rumors suggest Asus is developing an advanced headset with eye and face tracking capabilities that might make an appearance.
Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly feature prominently throughout the conference. Meta continues integrating AI tools across its hardware and software ecosystem, recently rebranding its smart glasses companion app as a dedicated Meta AI application. This platform allows users to explore and share AI-generated content, suggesting a growing emphasis on social AI experiences. Both new devices and existing products will likely receive AI-powered enhancements as Meta strengthens its position in the competitive AI landscape.
(Source: The Verge)
