Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses have become a popular accessory, but they have also sparked privacy concerns because they can record video. It seems Meta heard those concerns and launched a pair of Ray-Bans that ditched the cameras, but they are still smart.
Meta announced its new Ray-Ban Meta Audio smartglasses that still offer wearers the ability to utilize popular features like taking calls, accessing Meta AI without reaching for their phones, plus listening to music and podcasts without making those around them nervous because the built-in camera has been removed.
Available for preorder Sept. 23 and officially arriving Oct. 13, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio is the brand’s lightest smart glasses frame yet while taking full advantage of open-ear listening, Meta AI, and an everyday Ray-Ban design.
Weighing only 43 grams, the glasses are built for extended wear and listening, offer 12 hours of battery life, and come in two models: the Clubmaster, which comes in six colors and costs $349, and the Audio Burbank, which costs $429 and comes in five color options.
The open-ear design lets users focus on their surroundings while listening to their favorite songs, podcasts, or using Meta AI.
Meta Is Not Abandoning Smart Glasses With Built-In Cameras
But don’t get it twisted: Meta isn’t abandoning the built-in cameras on its Ray-Ban smart glasses. The company also introduced the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3), which features slimmer Wayfarer, Aviator, and Zena designs, plus a 3K Ultra HD camera, an upgraded six-microphone array, a customizable action button, and up to nine hours of battery life.
Will you be getting either pair? Let us know in the comments below.