Meta has unveiled a new pair of artificial intelligence-powered glasses without a camera as the company responds to growing privacy concerns surrounding smart wearable devices.
The Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses were introduced Wednesday at Meta’s annual Connect conference in Menlo Park, California.
Unlike Meta’s camera-equipped smart glasses, the new model focuses on audio, calls and interaction with the company’s AI assistant without allowing users to take photographs or record video through the glasses.
Ray-Ban Meta Audio Starts at $349
Meta said the new glasses are available for pre-order from $349 and will begin shipping on October 13.
The glasses weigh about 43 grams and can provide up to 12 hours of use on a single charge. The charging case can provide additional battery capacity.
The glasses are available in two new frame styles, Clubmaster and Burbank, with 23 colour and lens combinations.
Users can listen to music and podcasts, make calls and interact with Meta’s AI assistant while keeping their hands free.
Privacy Concerns Surround Smart Glasses
The launch comes as smart glasses face increasing scrutiny over privacy.
Camera-equipped wearable devices have raised concerns about people being recorded without their knowledge or consent, particularly in public places.
Reuters reported that privacy concerns surrounding AI-powered glasses have intensified internationally, including scrutiny over covert recordings and the potential misuse of wearable cameras.
Meta has continued to include a visible recording indicator on its camera-equipped glasses.
The company says the indicator is intended to make people nearby aware when photographs or videos are being captured.
Muse Becomes Central to Meta’s AI Glasses
Meta also announced the wider integration of its Muse personal AI agent with its glasses.
The company says Muse will allow users to interact with AI hands-free and carry out tasks through voice commands.
Meta is positioning AI glasses as a potential everyday computing platform, allowing users to access information and services without constantly reaching for a smartphone.
New Camera-Equipped Models Also Announced
The camera-free glasses are only one part of Meta’s expanded wearable lineup.
The company also unveiled the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3, which retains a camera and adds upgraded hardware, longer battery life and improved audio features.
Meta said the Gen 3 model includes a 12-megapixel camera and can record 3K video. It starts at $449.
Meta is also expanding its Meta Glasses range and bringing additional styles and models to international markets.
