Meta and Ray-Ban are teaming up once again to develop second-generation smart glasses that are set to offer enhanced features and improved functionality. While the first-gen model, the Meta Ray-Ban Stories, had a range of capabilities including audio playback and photo and video capture, it had some limitations. However, the upcoming smart glasses are expected to address these limitations and introduce a range of new features that could give them an edge over their competitors.
According to tech journalist Janko Roettgers, the second-gen Meta Ray-Ban glasses will allow users to start a live stream directly from their glasses. This feature will enable creators to provide viewers with a better point-of-view experience, especially during activities like walks or concerts. The live streaming capability also offers creators more mobility since they won’t have to rely on a smartphone for streaming. To support this feature, Meta has reportedly made improvements to the battery backup of the glasses.
In addition to live streaming, the second-gen glasses will also enable viewers to communicate with creators during a live stream. Although the exact details of this feature are not yet known, it is speculated that only select users will have the ability to speak directly to the creator. Meta might introduce a special subscription to enable direct communication, providing an additional source of income for creators. The glasses will incorporate in-built microphones and speakers to facilitate communication, which will enhance the viewer’s experience.
Meta is also expected to improve the audio quality in the next iteration of its smart glasses. Additionally, there might be enhancements to the cameras without compromising the weight and appearance of the glasses. Privacy features are also being worked on, as the first-gen glasses included LED indicators to notify others if they were being recorded. However, the brightness of these indicators was a concern. The second-gen glasses may employ AI to prevent users from covering the LED indicator, further ensuring privacy.
Furthermore, Meta is reportedly looking to expand its music streaming partnerships this year, which could provide users with a more immersive audio experience while wearing the smart glasses.
The Meta Ray-Ban Stories (2023) are expected to be launched in October alongside the Quest 3 mixed-reality headset. With Apple also entering the smart glasses market with its Vision Pro headset, Meta is likely to introduce significant changes and improvements to stay competitive. In fact, there have been leaked reports suggesting that Meta plans to introduce augmented reality (AR) technology to its smart glasses by 2025.
It is worth noting that Meta will continue its collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, a leading glasses manufacturer. This partnership will contribute to the development of high-quality and fashionable smart glasses.
In conclusion, Meta’s collaboration with Ray-Ban for the development of second-generation smart glasses promises exciting new features and improvements. The upcoming glasses are expected to offer live streaming capabilities, enhanced battery backup, improved audio quality, and better privacy protection. As the smart glasses market evolves, Meta is determined to stay ahead by delivering innovative and user-friendly products.
