Meta's annual Connect conference saw the launch of its first consumer smart glasses with an integrated display, the Meta Ray-Ban Display, priced at $799. These glasses feature a small digital screen controlled via hand gestures using the Meta Neural Band wristband. However, the event was significantly impacted by several live demonstration failures.
During a culinary segment, the AI assistant within the glasses struggled with a steak sauce recipe, leading Chef Jack Mancuso to halt the demonstration. This was followed by repeated failures during a live video call attempt involving Meta's CTO, Andrew "Boz" Bosworth, who commented on the connectivity issues, stating, "Wi-Fi is brutal." Mark Zuckerberg, Meta's CEO, acknowledged the unpredictability of live demos, noting, "You practice these things like 100 times, and then, you never know what's going to happen."
Despite the technical setbacks, Meta also showcased an updated Ray-Ban Meta glasses model and a collaboration with Oakley, the Oakley Meta Vanguard. The Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses are set for release on September 30, 2025, initially in select U.S. stores, with broader expansion planned for 2026. The glasses offer up to six hours of battery life, with the charging case providing an additional 30 hours. The Meta Neural Band boasts 18 hours of battery life.
The Meta Ray-Ban Display features include hands-free messaging and video calls via WhatsApp and Messenger, visual Meta AI prompts, pedestrian navigation, and music playback control. The Meta Neural Band utilizes electromyography (EMG) sensors to translate subtle muscle signals into commands for gesture control. The Oakley Meta Vanguard, priced at $499, is designed for athletes with a 12MP ultra-wide camera, open-ear speakers, and integration with platforms like Strava and Garmin for real-time performance insights.
Despite the on-stage technical difficulties, Meta's stock saw a slight increase post-event, suggesting continued investor confidence in the company's smart glasses vision. Meta highlighted its commitment to evolving this technology through ongoing development and the introduction of new product categories catering to diverse user needs.