During Meta Connect 2026, the company unveiled a suite of updates for its Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, highlighting holographic avatar support and availability in five new markets. The device, originally launched at the same event last year, continues to evolve with software enhancements aimed at improving social interaction and usability.
A key addition is the Hologram feature, designed to address the anonymity inherent in smart glasses calls where the wearer’s face is not visible to the other party. Powered by the Meta AI app, the tool generates a photorealistic hologram driven entirely by the user’s voice. The system infers facial expressions based on speech content and tone, creating a more natural visual presence. This capability will first roll out in early access later this fall for WhatsApp users in the United States.
Navigation capabilities have also been refined. Users in the US and Canada can now request cycling or public transit directions via voice command, with the update releasing later this month. The system supports a more conversational routing experience by referencing physical landmarks rather than relying solely on street names. For instance, instructions may direct a user to “turn left at the yellow house” instead of naming the specific road.
To address previous criticism regarding limited app availability, Meta is introducing an Explore app on both the glasses and the Meta AI application. This tool helps users browse and discover programs compatible with the headset. Additional incremental updates include Dolby Atmos audio for capture and playback, on-glasses photo editing, a more detailed calendar view, mirrored phone notifications, and Threads Community Feeds.
The hardware expansion brings the Meta Ray-Ban Display to the UK, Canada, France, Italy, and Germany. While the glasses have been available in the US, they are now launching in these new regions. Pricing starts at £749 in the UK and CA$1,149 in Canada, with orders available immediately. Pre-orders open today for France, Italy, and Germany at a base price of €899, with full availability set for October 13.
Leave a Reply