Meta's New Smart Glasses Will Not Feature a Camera
At the Meta Connect 2026 event, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio Glasses model was introduced, designed without a camera to address public surveillance concerns.
Meta has announced the Ray-Ban Meta Audio Glasses model, designed without a camera in response to public backlash regarding surveillance technology, alongside its third-generation smart glasses.
The Camera-Free Smart Glasses Era
At the Meta Connect 2026 event, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio Glasses model, developed without a camera to reduce public surveillance concerns, became official. Although the glasses do not feature a camera capable of recording, they come with Meta AI integration.
Design and Technical Specifications
According to statements by Meta's vice president of wearable devices, Alex Himel, removing the cameras allowed the frames to be redesigned from scratch. As a result, a lighter, thinner, and more flexible structure with a weight of 43 grams was achieved. Starting at $349, the model offers 23 different color and lens combinations in Clubmaster and Burbank styles. The device promises an estimated 12-hour battery life alongside calling and audio playback features.
Third Generation and Other Models
At the event, Meta also introduced the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 glasses, which feature a camera, a sixth microphone for clearer calls, a nine-hour battery life, and Dolby Atmos spatial audio. Starting at $449, this new series includes 27 color and lens combinations with aviator and Zena styles. Additionally, special series prepared in collaboration with Kylie Jenner and Blackpink member Lisa were announced with a price tag of $399.
Artificial Intelligence and Additional Features
Meta's personal AI assistant Muse is being integrated into the ecosystem. Updates also include an FDA-cleared hearing support feature offered for an additional $149, privacy protections such as private processing, and the option for users to opt out of having their visual data used for AI training.