MENLO PARK (California): Meta Platforms has introduced a new range of affordable AI-powered smart glasses, expanding its wearable technology portfolio following the success of its Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Developed in partnership with eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica, the new Meta Glasses will start at $299, significantly lower than the $800 Ray-Ban Display glasses launched last year.
The latest devices are the first Meta smart glasses not associated with Luxottica-owned brands such as Ray-Ban or Oakley. The collection features a variety of new colors and frame styles, including rectangular designs and slim oval frames created in collaboration with media personality Kylie Jenner.
Meta said the glasses will be powered by Meta AI running on Muse Spark, the first artificial intelligence model developed by the company’s Superintelligence Labs. The wearable devices are designed to provide AI-powered assistance, text display capabilities and hands-free interaction.
The company has invested heavily in artificial intelligence and wearable technology, viewing such devices as a key platform for bringing AI-powered “personal intelligence” directly to consumers.
The growing popularity of Meta’s smart glasses has encouraged competitors to enter the market. Tech giants Google and Apple are reportedly exploring similar products, while Snap recently launched its own augmented reality glasses priced at $2,195.
According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), global smart glasses shipments reached 9.6 million units last year, with Meta accounting for more than 76 percent of the market.
Industry analysts view the launch as another step in the intensifying competition among major technology companies to establish dominance in the emerging AI wearables sector.–Reuters
