During its Connect 2026 conference on Wednesday, Meta officially announced the Ray-Ban Meta Audio, marking the company’s first entry into camera-free AI eyewear. The move follows earlier reports that the tech giant was developing privacy-focused smart glasses in response to growing public scrutiny over covert recording capabilities.
The new device, manufactured in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, is designed solely for audio functions. Users can stream music and podcasts, handle phone calls, utilize real-time speech translation, and interact with Meta’s AI assistant, Muse. The glasses are priced at $349, with preorders opening on October 13.
This release serves as a strategic response to reputational challenges Meta has faced regarding its existing camera-equipped glasses. Previous iterations drew criticism and were colloquially dubbed “pervert glasses” after reports emerged of individuals using them to record others without consent. While Meta previously attempted to mitigate these issues by disabling cameras if the recording indicator LED was tampered with, the privacy concerns persisted.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted the product during his keynote address, noting that the company realized it could create an entirely new category focused on audio quality. “Once you get used to high quality audio, it’s just a thing that you want all all the time, right?” Zuckerberg said, positioning the glasses as a competitor to products like Apple’s Siri-enabled AirPods.
Without the need to house cameras and related hardware, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio is significantly lighter and slimmer than its predecessors, weighing in at just 43 grams. Meta claims the device offers up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge, extendable to 48 hours with the included charging case. The frames feature adjustable temple tips, swappable nose pads, and overextension hinges.
Consumers will have access to 23 different color and lens combinations across two new styles: a retro-inspired “Clubmaster” design and the “Burbank,” described as a classic rectangular shape. As with other Meta glasses, users can order the device with optical prescriptions if needed.
In addition to the audio-only model, Meta also introduced the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3, which retains cameras. The updated lineup includes the traditional Wayfarer style alongside two new options, the Aviator and the Zena, a cat-eye frame. These camera-equipped models feature a 12-megapixel sensor capable of 3K Ultra HD video, a six-microphone array, and up to nine hours of battery life.
Meta also confirmed an expanded global rollout and new brand partnerships, including a collaboration with singer Lisa, following a previous deal with Kylie Jenner. All devices will support Meta’s Muse AI assistant and upcoming features such as Dolby Atmos Capture, landscape and portrait mode selections, hearing enhancements for users with hearing loss, and a new “private processing” mode intended to keep user data local and unseen by the company.
Interesting pivot by Meta. Good call focusing on audio quality to sidestep the ‘pervert glasses’ controversy.
Is it really just audio? I was hoping for more than basic Bluetooth features at this price point.
Finally, a no-camera option! As someone who worries about privacy, this is exactly what I’ve been waiting for.