Meta has unveiled its latest innovation in smart eyewear, collaborating with Oakley to launch the limited-edition Oakley Meta HSTN glasses. Priced at $499, these glasses are set to be available for preorder starting July 11th. Additionally, other models that integrate Meta technology will be offered, starting at $399 and expected to release later this summer.
Similar to the existing Meta Ray-Ban models, the new Oakley glasses are equipped with a front-facing camera, along with open-ear speakers and microphones integrated into the frame. When paired with a smartphone, users can enjoy music, podcasts, and conduct phone calls, as well as engage with Meta AI. This advanced AI can assist users by answering questions about their surroundings and translating languages, enhancing the interactive experience.
Designed with athletes in mind, the Oakley glasses boast an IPX4 water resistance rating and feature double the battery life of the Meta Ray-Bans, offering up to 8 hours of use plus a charging case that extends total usage to 48 hours. Notably, the upgraded camera now captures 3K video, enhancing the quality compared to the previous 1080p standard of the Meta Ray-Bans.
The glasses will be available in five distinct Oakley frame and lens combinations, all of which can be customized for prescription at an additional cost. Color options include warm grey, black, brown smoke, and clear, with various lens choices, including transition lenses. The exclusive $499 model showcases gold accents and Oakley PRIZM lenses, further enhancing its appeal.
Meta’s recent partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban and Oakley, signifies a strategic move into the performance eyewear market. With over two million pairs of Meta Ray-Bans sold, EssilorLuxottica has ambitious plans to sell up to 10 million smart glasses annually through Meta by 2026. Alex Himel, Meta’s head of wearables, emphasized that this release marks only the beginning of performance-oriented smart eyewear.
This announcement underlines Meta’s commitment to evolving technology that enhances user experiences in various contexts, particularly in sports and daily life. It also bodes well for the ongoing trend of merging traditional eyewear with cutting-edge features, potentially attracting a broad audience of consumers eager for technological integration in their accessories.