Meta used its annual Connect conference to showcase a new wave of AI-powered wearables, underscoring its push into smart glasses and gesture-based computing. CEO Mark Zuckerberg headlined the event, introducing three major products: the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses, the new Ray-Ban Display with a wristband controller, and the Oakley Meta Vanguard, built for athletes.
The highlight of the keynote was the Meta Ray-Ban Display, which pairs traditional smart glasses with the Meta Neural Band, a wrist-worn controller that detects subtle hand movements through surface electromyography. This allows users to see notifications or messages directly on their lens and respond by “writing” replies in the air. The glasses, launching September 30 for $799, are Meta’s boldest attempt yet at pushing smart glasses into the mainstream.
Also introduced were the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2), priced at $379, offering double the battery life of the first generation, support for 3K video recording, and new AI-driven features like conversation focus. Meanwhile, the Oakley Meta Vanguard targets outdoor athletes, featuring a wraparound design, a 12-megapixel wide-angle camera, and nine-hour battery life. It integrates with apps like Strava and Garmin, and launches October 21 for $499.
The keynote wasn’t without hiccups. During a live demo, the AI assistant in the Ray-Ban Metas stumbled when asked to walk through a recipe, prompting laughter from the audience. Zuckerberg brushed it off as a connectivity issue, though the awkward moment highlighted the challenges of live AI demonstrations.
Interestingly, the metaverse took a back seat this year. While Meta provided a glimpse of new VR developer tools like Hyperscape, no new Quest headsets were unveiled. Reports suggest the company is working on an ultralight VR headset for release in 2026, hinting at where the metaverse focus may return in the future. For now, Meta’s strategy is clear: redefine wearable technology with smart glasses and AI assistants, betting that these devices could eventually rival the smartphone as everyday essentials.
