Meta has announced the upcoming release of the Ray-Ban Meta Audio, a new iteration of its smart glasses that excludes a camera. The device retains core audio features, such as the ability to play music and handle phone calls, while offering a lighter frame and improved battery life compared to its camera-equipped predecessors.
The move comes as the company faces significant criticism regarding its original camera-enabled glasses. Critics, including tech founder Liz Hunter, have labeled the devices "pervert glasses" due to reports of users filming others without consent. This controversy has led to bans in various locations, including some UK schools, theatres, and the Faslane nuclear submarine base. Despite the backlash, Meta maintains that the new audio-only model has been in development for two years and is not a direct response to public pressure.
Industry analysts offer varying interpretations of the product launch. Ben Wood of CCS Insight suggests the release is well-timed given the current climate, though he notes that camera-enabled technology remains a "key pillar" for AI platforms that rely on visual data. Meanwhile, Forrester analyst Kate Winick describes the move as a "half step to the side," suggesting it may help normalize the technology by allowing users to become comfortable with smart glasses before transitioning to models with cameras.
While Meta continues to develop its camera-enabled line—with a third generation set to arrive in the UK next month—other companies are exploring different approaches to privacy. HTC, for instance, has introduced features that deactivate recording if a user verbally requests it. As the market for wearable technology grows, with companies like Google, Samsung, and Snap also pursuing smart glasses, experts emphasize that society is still in the process of establishing norms and regulatory frameworks for these devices.
Source: BBC News
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