The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have emerged as the most successful wearable tech to date, offering a compelling blend of features in a design that closely resembles regular sunglasses.
Currently, all AI functionalities, along with notifications and messaging features, function through integrated speakers that read information aloud. However, a new report indicates that a future version may introduce a display, potentially launching next year.
At DMN, we appreciate the existing smart glasses. My colleague, Filipe Espósito, shares that his experience with the Ray-Ban Meta glasses changed his perspective on smart glasses, a sentiment I can also relate to.
Personally, I found them to be an excellent tool for capturing POV photos and videos in a discreet manner, as well as for having incoming messages announced while I’m out walking or cycling.
Their rapidly advancing AI capabilities are particularly exciting for the future.
Upcoming models may feature a display
While it’s often convenient to have the glasses relay information audibly, there are occasions when a visual display would be more effective. We can consume written information more swiftly than it can be read aloud, making the introduction of a display an appealing option. A report from the Financial Times suggests that such developments might be imminent.
Meta is reportedly planning to introduce displays in its Ray-Ban smart glasses as early as next year, as the tech giant aims to accelerate the creation of lightweight headsets that could replace smartphones as primary computing devices.
The social media conglomerate, valued at $1.5 trillion, is expected to integrate a display within the $300 sunglasses that are developed in partnership with eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica, according to sources familiar with the initiative.
The updated Ray-Bans might debut in the latter half of 2025, with the small display anticipated to show notifications or interact with Meta’s virtual assistant.
Advancing towards Apple Glasses
This summer, Meta showcased an early prototype of its Orion AR glasses. Despite being somewhat bulky, with a reported manufacturing cost of $10,000, they provided a promising glimpse of the future of smart eyewear, more akin to the current Ray-Ban products.
Similarly, Apple is said to be pursuing a glasses form factor in the long run, with the Vision Pro serving as an initial step towards their own version of smart glasses. While voice capabilities will likely be included, Apple seems poised to focus significantly on integrated displays.
Back in 2019, it was suggested that Apple sees AR glasses eventually replacing the iPhone. Whether this belief will come to fruition is debatable, but I’ve no doubt that smart glasses will play a significant role in the future of technology.
Meta’s move to add a display to its smart glasses is a critical step in advancing the technology, and I eagerly await the chance to experience it myself.
Photo: Ben Lovejoy/DMN
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