At its Connect 2026 conference on Wednesday, Meta announced the Ray‑Ban Meta Audio, its first camera-free AI-enabled glasses. The device was developed with Meta’s hardware partner EssilorLuxottica and will start at $349.
The company designed the audio-only glasses in part to respond to criticism of camera-equipped smart glasses. Some commentators had labeled earlier camera models "pervert glasses" after reports that people, often men, used them to record others without consent. By removing the camera, Meta positions the new model as a privacy-conscious alternative that still supports a range of AI-driven audio features.
Key functions
- Audio playback for music and podcasts
- Call handling
- Real-time speech translation
- Interaction with Meta’s personal AI assistant, Muse
Why it matters
The lack of a camera addresses reputational and ethical concerns around covert recording, and gives Meta a direct offering in the high-quality wearable-audio category competing with devices such as Siri-enabled earbuds. During his keynote, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg argued that once users get used to high-quality audio, they will want it continuously.
Hardware and design details
- Weight: 43 grams; slimmer profile because no cameras are required.
- Battery life: up to 12 hours on a single charge, extendable to 48 hours with the included charging case.
- Physical features: adjustable temple tips, swappable nose pads, overextension hinges.
- Variants: 23 color and lens combinations; two new frame styles — a retro "Clubmaster" and a classic rectangular "Burbank." Prescription lenses will be available.
- Availability: available for preorder starting October 13.
Next-generation camera models
Meta also unveiled the Ray‑Ban Meta (Gen 3) line of camera-equipped glasses. In addition to the Ray‑Ban Meta Wayfarer, two new styles will join the lineup: Aviator and Zena (a cat‑eye frame). Spec highlights for Gen 3:
- 12 MP camera supporting 3K Ultra HD video
- Six-microphone array
- Up to nine hours of battery life
Brand partnerships and rollout
Meta said the EssilorLuxottica-designed glasses will expand into more styles and colors and include a new collaboration with singer Lisa, following an earlier brand partnership with Kylie Jenner. The company plans broader international availability.
Software updates and privacy features
All of Meta’s AI glasses will include access to Muse. Meta also previewed several upcoming features, including Dolby Atmos Capture, a best-frame selection tool that picks the best photo from multiple frames, a landscape or portrait mode option, hearing enhancements for users with hearing loss, more detailed assistant responses, multiple audio modes, customizable controls, and a "private processing" option that Meta claims will prevent the company from seeing user data.
Conclusion
The Ray‑Ban Meta Audio represents Meta’s attempt to offer AI-driven wearable audio while reducing privacy concerns tied to onboard cameras. With lightweight hardware, long battery life, and multiple style options, the device aims to appeal to users seeking AI features without the intrusion of a built‑in camera.
