Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Launch Requires Booking a Demo Appointment

Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Require Booking a Demo at Launch Meta's highly anticipated AI smart glasses, Meta Ray-Ban Display, will be available for purchase starting September 30, but with a twist. Instead of being able to pre-order the $799 glasses online, consumers must book a demo appointment at one of the company's retail partners, such as Best Buy, LensCrafters, or Ray-Ban stores. According to Meta officials, this approach is designed to provide a more personalized experience for customers, allowing them to try on the glasses and get hands-on experience with their features. "We want to make sure that our customers have the best possible experience when trying out our new product," said a Meta spokesperson in an interview. "By offering demos at retail stores, we can give people a chance to see how the Meta Ray-Ban Display works and answer any questions they may have." The demo booking process is already underway, with some locations reporting delays due to high demand. Consumers must visit the scheduling tool on the company's website or check with their local store to book an appointment. Background and context: Meta officially unveiled its first AI smart glasses at Meta Connect 2025, a major event for the tech industry. The Meta Ray-Ban Display features a built-in screen and is equipped with advanced AI capabilities, including object recognition and augmented reality functionality. The decision to require demos at retail stores has sparked debate among industry experts and consumers alike. Some see it as a strategic move by Meta to create a more immersive experience for customers, while others view it as an unnecessary hurdle that may deter sales. Additional perspectives: Industry analyst Jason Hiner notes that this approach is not unique to Meta. "Many companies are now using demos and in-store experiences to connect with customers and build brand loyalty," he said. "It's a smart move by Meta to invest in this type of experience, especially given the high price point of these glasses." Current status and next developments: As of September 19, some locations have already reported delays due to high demand for demo appointments. Consumers are advised to book their appointment as soon as possible to ensure availability. The launch of the Meta Ray-Ban Display on September 30 marks a significant milestone in the development of AI-powered smart glasses. As this technology continues to evolve and improve, it will be interesting to see how companies like Meta adapt and innovate to meet changing consumer needs. Meta officials have not announced any plans for online pre-orders or alternative purchasing options. For now, booking a demo appointment at one of their retail partners remains the only way to get your hands on these highly anticipated smart glasses. *Reporting by Zdnet.*