Following the triumph of their initial eyewear release, Meta is stepping up its game. At the recent Connect conference, the company unveiled a new generation of screenless smart glasses. This includes the upgraded Ray-Ban Meta Version 2, boasting improved battery life and 3K video capabilities, and the brand-new sporty model, the Oakley Meta Vanguard, designed specifically for athletes.
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Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2): Better than Ever
Given the commercial success of the first model, Meta decided to refine rather than reinvent. The second generation of Ray-Ban Meta retains the iconic Wayfarer, Skyler, and Headliner designs but features significantly upgraded internal components.
The most significant upgrade is the battery life, which has nearly doubled to eight hours of mixed-use. The charging case now provides an additional 48 hours of battery life. Video quality has also seen a major upgrade, moving from 1080p to 3K Ultra HD for crisper, more detailed images. Internal storage has been increased to 32 GB.
On the software side, Meta introduced a new “conversation focus” feature that uses microphones to amplify the voice of the person you’re speaking with, and expanded live translation capabilities to include Portuguese and German. The Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) is available starting today, with prices beginning at $419.
Oakley Meta Vanguard: Designed for Athletes
Additionally, Meta confirmed a brand-new product, the Oakley Meta Vanguard. Developed in partnership with Oakley, these wraparound glasses are designed for intense sports activities such as cycling, skiing, and running.
These differ from the Ray-Ban models in several ways. The 12-megapixel camera is now centered over the nose bridge for a more natural perspective, and it offers a wider field of view (122 degrees). New video modes, including Hyperlapse and slow motion, have been added. The battery life is even longer, reaching up to nine hours.
The speakers are more powerful and the wind noise reduction has been enhanced, making it easier to take calls even during vigorous activities. The frame is more durable, with an IP67 waterproof rating.
A major addition is the software integration with sports ecosystems. You can connect the glasses to apps like Garmin and Strava to receive performance data (heart rate, speed, distance, etc.) directly through voice commands via Meta’s AI assistant. The Oakley Meta Vanguard will be available on October 21st, priced at $549.
What’s the Verdict?
Meta has found a winning formula for smart glasses by partnering with iconic eyewear brands (Ray-Ban, Oakley) to deliver a product that is first a fashion statement before a tech gadget. The first generation was a surprising success, which many of us at the editorial office use daily, and this second wave of products shows that the company has listened to user feedback.
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By improving the shortcomings of the first generation (battery life, video quality) and expanding the range to include a model dedicated to sports, Meta is solidifying its lead in an emerging yet promising market.
It’s a clever and pragmatic strategy that allows them to stake out the field while waiting for the true augmented reality glasses, which are expected to arrive in Europe by 2026. So, are you starting to be tempted by these smart glasses?