In 2021, Meta and Ray-Ban Stories debuted their first-generation smart glasses, selling roughly 300,000 pairs over their lifecycle. Fast forward to September 2023, and the second-generation Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses have already surpassed two million pairs globally. Originally a side project from Meta Reality Labs, this product has transformed into a flagship device that created an entirely new smart eyewear category, energizing the entire industry chain.
A Revolutionary Collaboration in Smart Eyewear
Meta partnered closely with EssilorLuxottica (Ray-Ban’s parent company), with Meta investing US$1 billion to acquire a 5% stake. The result is a set of smart glasses available in three models—each inspired by Ray-Ban’s timeless designs that appeal across cultures. Featuring multiple lens options, including a photochromic lens that transitions from clear indoors to tinted outdoors, these glasses marry cutting-edge technology with iconic style. Backed by Ray-Ban’s extensive offline retail network, customers can conveniently try on, fit, and purchase them in store.
Competitive Pricing and Accessibility
Priced between US$299 and US$379, these smart glasses offer exceptional value relative to standard Ray-Ban models. In the U.S., insurance options make them nearly free for many buyers—a key driver behind their massive global sales.
Balanced Hardware & Software Integration
Designed to work seamlessly with a smartphone, the product combines a dedicated mobile app with onboard software. Meta’s design achieves an elegant aesthetic (in collaboration with Ray-Ban’s classic styles), an ultra-lightweight build (just 48.6g), and a fast-charging case that boosts battery life. While battery performance could improve, the device shows no major weaknesses. Unlike competitors that overload features and compromise performance, Meta’s approach focuses on core functions:
- Photography & Video Capture: First-person, always-on recording ensures you never miss a moment.
- Audio Playback: The temple design naturally supports sound, though a multi-mic solution (with noise cancellation and spatial recording) is essential for optimal voice capture.
Performance Insights and Areas for Improvement
Tests reveal that videos recorded with the Meta Ray-Ban glasses exhibit compression issues. Nighttime photos suffer from noise and inconsistent autofocus, while video stabilization is only average. The unique vertical 4:3 aspect ratio, though suitable for casual use, deviates from mainstream formats.
The open-design speakers deliver a natural sound but struggle in noisy environments and lack active noise cancellation. However, the advanced 5-mic array captures audio with excellent noise reduction, often outperforming competitors like AirPods Pro.
At this stage, AI features primarily build user habits. As AI evolves, future iterations can integrate advanced functionalities.
Inside the Hardware: A Teardown Analysis
A detailed teardown shows impressive integration:
- Integrated Components: One temple houses the SoC, mainboard, speaker, hinge, and other components, with black thermal paste applied for heat dissipation.
- Battery & Touch Panel: The other temple contains the battery, speaker, touch panel, and hinge.
- Charging Case: Designed with a leather texture reminiscent of traditional Ray-Ban cases, the charging module includes an STMicroelectronics MCU, a USB Type-C charging chip, status LEDs, a connection button, and a robust charging battery.
Lessons Learned & Recommendations for Future Generations
As Meta gears up for the third-generation model (expected at the upcoming Connect conference in September), here are some recommendations:
Maintain a Minimalist Design: Focus on a clean, unobtrusive design without unnecessary displays.
Expand Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with additional high-profile fashion and sports brands to release more stylish smart glasses.
Enhance Battery Life: Optimize hardware and software to extend battery performance.
Refine Camera Performance: Improve the camera’s aspect ratio, image quality, and stabilization.
Upgrade Audio Capabilities: Enhance the open speaker design with active noise cancellation for clearer sound.
Leverage iOS Integration: Utilize Apple’s native features (e.g., Dynamic Island, Core ML) to unlock advanced AI capabilities.
