Because they do not need to accommodate camera hardware, Ray-Ban Meta Audio is also lighter and slimmer than Meta’s camera-equipped models. The glasses weigh 43 grams and come with adjustable temple tips, swappable nose pads, overextension hinges, and a charging case that extends total battery life to as much as 48 hours.
Meta is offering 23 combinations of colors and lenses across two styles: Clubmaster and Burbank. Prescription lenses will also be available.
The camera-free model arrives as Meta faces continued scrutiny over privacy and consent around smart glasses. The company has previously updated its camera-equipped glasses so the camera stops working if the recording indicator light is physically tampered with.
Removing the camera addresses one of the most visible privacy concerns, but the Audio model still relies on microphones. Linda Sui, founder of Smart Analytics Global, told Reuters that “Microphones and audio collection could trigger similar concerns, although likely to a lesser degree.”
Jitesh Ubrani, a director at IDC, said consent remains central to how the device is perceived. “This is all about consent,” he told Reuters. “Meta needs to figure out a way to warn users they are being recorded, even though it just might be audio only.”
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company is also working on private processing for information captured by the glasses, including a system intended to keep certain data from being visible to Meta.
Ray-Ban Meta Audio debuted alongside the third generation of Meta’s camera-equipped Ray-Ban glasses. The Gen 3 line adds Aviator and Zena styles, with the latter using a cat-eye frame design. Those models include a 12-megapixel camera, support 3K Ultra HD video, use six microphones, and offer up to nine hours of battery life.
Meta also expanded its fashion partnerships with a new Lisa collaboration and an ivory version tied to Kylie Jenner. Those models start at $399, while Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 starts at $449.
Muse is becoming the software layer across Meta’s wearable lineup. The company said the assistant will serve as the primary interface for its glasses, handling tasks such as shopping, making appointments, and other voice-driven actions.
Meta also used the event to preview additional features planned for its glasses, including Dolby Atmos Capture, automatic photo selection from multiple frames, portrait and landscape controls, hearing-related enhancements, customizable controls, and more detailed AI responses.
The launch gives Meta a second direction for its smart-glasses business. Its existing models continue to emphasize cameras and visual capture, while Ray-Ban Meta Audio targets users who want the voice, audio, and AI features without a camera built into the frame.
This analysis is based on reporting from USA Today.
Image courtesy of Meta.
This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.
