Meta Unveils Next-Gen Ray-Ban Smart Glasses: Smarter, Sleeker, and More Affordable

Meta Unveils Second-Generation Ray-Ban Smart Glasses at Connect Conference Meta has unveiled its second-generation of Ray-Ban smart glasses during the company's Connect conference, marking a significant upgrade to the popular wearable device. The new model, which retails starting at $379, boasts improved battery life, enhanced camera capabilities, and increased storage. According to Meta, the Gen 2 Ray-Ban Meta glasses offer up to eight hours of battery life with "typical use," a notable improvement over the previous model's six-hour battery life. The included charging case now provides an additional 48 hours of juice, compared to 32 hours for the current one. Users can also charge their glasses to 50 percent in just 20 minutes. The second-gen glasses feature a 12-megapixel camera and offer 3K Ultra HD video capture, with up to 60 frames per second and HDR support. Meta has promised to release updates that add hyperlapse and slow-motion video capture capabilities to all of its AI glasses later this fall. "We're excited to bring the next generation of our Ray-Ban smart glasses to market," said a Meta spokesperson. "Our goal is to provide users with an immersive and seamless experience, and we believe these upgrades will take their wearables to the next level." The second-gen Ray-Ban Meta has 32GB of storage and is IPX-4 rated for water resistance, making it a more practical option for everyday use. Background on the original Ray-Ban Meta glasses, released in 2023, highlighted concerns about data privacy and user control. Critics argued that the device's ability to collect biometric data raised questions about how users' personal information would be handled. In response, Meta emphasized its commitment to transparency and user consent, stating that users would have full control over their data. The release of the second-gen Ray-Ban Meta has sparked renewed debate about the role of smart glasses in society. Some experts argue that these devices will revolutionize the way we interact with technology, while others express concerns about the potential for increased surveillance and social isolation. "I think it's great to see companies pushing the boundaries of innovation," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading expert on wearable technology. "However, we need to be mindful of the implications of these devices on our daily lives and ensure that users are aware of the data they're collecting." The second-gen Ray-Ban Meta is now available for pre-order, with shipments expected to begin in the coming weeks. As the smart glasses market continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the intersection of technology and fashion has never been more exciting. With the release of the Gen 2 Ray-Ban Meta, users can expect a more immersive and seamless experience, but also increased scrutiny over data privacy and user control. *Reporting by Engadget.*