Meta unveiled a new line of AI-powered smart glasses starting at 1,098.08 AED. This launch marks a significant shift toward more affordable wearable technology. The competition in the smart glasses market is intensifying as rivals, including Snap, Google, and Apple, are upgrading their AI-enabled eyewear.
The new devices, branded simply as ‘Meta Glasses,’ are developed in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, an eyewear giant. Unlike Meta’s earlier smart eyewear products, the glasses will not carry the Ray-Ban or Oakley branding.
Meta Vice President of Wearables Alex Himel told The Verge, “We just feel like we need to have a pair of glasses at a lower price point, and we were trying to figure out what could work there.”
The starting price of 1,098.08 AED is significantly lower than that of the smart glasses launched by Meta last year, which started at approximately 2,938 AED. With the reduced cost, Meta aims to make AI-powered wearables available to a broader audience. The range of frames includes Adventurer, Fury frames, as well as a premium model called ‘Starfire,’ made in collaboration with Kylie Jenner. Prices range from 1,098.08 AED to 1,465.33 AED.
The devices also include built-in cameras, open-ear speakers, and microphones. Users can interact with Meta AI via voice commands to perform tasks. This includes:
Meta Translation
Object recognition
Contextual information retrieval
Hands-free photo and video capture
Meta says the new eyewear is powered by its latest AI, reflecting CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s vision of ‘personal intelligence’ delivered through wearable devices.
The release highlights the growing competition for market leadership in the new smart-glasses segment. Snap has just released its expensive Specs model at 8,061.14 AED, and Google is working on its AI-driven glasses in collaboration with Warby Parker. There are high expectations that Apple will also join the fray.
Meta enjoys an overwhelming market share, accounting for more than 75% of smart glasses shipments globally. The company is counting on affordable pricing, AI capabilities, and style to continue its leadership in the coming generation of wearable technology.
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