Meta Ray-Ban Gen 3: Next-Gen Smart Glasses Unveiled

During Meta Connect 2026, Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, unveiled the latest generation of smart glasses, aligning with his vision for “Personal Superintelligence” powered by the Muse AI agent.

The company introduced three innovative models: Meta Ray-Ban Gen 3, Meta VR Glasses, and Meta Audio Glasses, while also providing updates on the previously announced Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses.

Despite increasing privacy concerns regarding smart glasses, Zuckerberg positioned them as the future of personal computing. He highlighted that 2 billion people already wear glasses and expressed his belief that smart glasses will prevail over other AI wearable devices.

“We believe that glasses will become the leading category because they already are, and they uniquely allow your Muse to see what you see, hear what you hear, communicate with you throughout the day, and eventually display information directly in your line of sight,” Zuckerberg stated during his keynote address.

Alongside the new glass models, Zuckerberg presented a range of fresh styles for Meta’s eyewear, including a collaboration with Blackpink’s Lisa. He announced that over 100 different styles of Meta smart glasses will soon be available to consumers.

Discover the Upgraded Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 Smart Glasses

The third generation of Meta’s iconic smart glasses features significant upgrades and design enhancements, including:

• Six microphones for optimal voice capture and wind noise reduction

• Adjustable temple tips for customized comfort

• Enhanced audio capabilities with Dolby Atmos and spatial audio features

• New styles, including the classic Ray-Ban aviators

• An entry-level Adventurer style starting at $249

Fashion remains a primary focus of this launch. Zuckerberg highlighted new styles such as Ray-Ban aviators, Zena, and a limited edition with a timeless design available at the launch. Additional frame styles include a stylish cat-eye frame and an ivory color option from the Kylie Jenner collection. The company has also teamed up with Lisa from Blackpink to introduce several new styles and customizable charms for the frames.

The glasses can be ordered now from the Meta and Ray-Ban online stores for $449, while the special Lisa from Blackpink frames are priced at $399. The entry-level Adventurer frames for $249 are yet to be available and are expected to be launched at a later date.

Explore the Features of Meta VR Glasses

Credit: Meta

The highlight of the evening was the introduction of a groundbreaking VR device. The Meta VR Glasses blend features from high-end products like the Apple Vision Pro and Galaxy XR headsets while maintaining a traditional smart glasses aesthetic.

Set to launch in spring 2027 for $1,299, these glasses are significantly lighter than other VR headsets, weighing just 100 grams, comparable to a deck of cards and about one-fifth the weight of the Meta Quest 3 headset.

The keynote underscored three primary use cases for the VR glasses—productivity, entertainment, and gaming. Meta described the glasses as a personal cinema, showcasing testimonials from renowned figures like James Cameron regarding the exceptional display quality. Promised entertainment features include spatial audio, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and IMAX Enhanced cinema mode. For gaming, the glasses will support the entire Meta Quest VR game library and titles from Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Similar to most augmented reality glasses, these devices connect to external gadgets via USB-C, enabling them to project a virtual screen into the user’s surroundings and display a virtual keyboard on any flat surface.

The company also revealed a novel feature called Hologram Calling, which brings a lifelike, full-body avatar to life during video calls.

Unveiling the Meta Audio Glasses

The new Meta AI Audio Glasses Credit: Meta

As anticipated, Zuckerberg announced the launch of the company’s first camera-free smart glasses. The Meta Audio AI Glasses maintain classic Ray-Ban aesthetics and are priced affordably at $249. Zuckerberg noted that these are also the company’s thinnest-ever smart glasses. Like the Meta Ray-Ban Gen 3, they will seamlessly integrate with the Muse AI assistant.

The glasses are currently available on Meta’s website, with a description stating: “Engineered without a camera and more powerful than traditional headphones, simply ask your glasses to play music or respond to inquiries while on the go.”

Enhanced Hearing Features for Meta Smart Glasses

Zuckerberg announced an upgraded Hearing Enhancement feature that transforms Meta smart glasses into FDA-approved devices for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. This feature offers a clear value proposition. Instead of spending thousands on hearing aids and associated medical visits, users can complete a guided assessment using Meta glasses, free of charge and without the need for a prescription, according to Meta.

Introducing the Meta Display Glasses

The Meta Display Glasses come with a neural band and can be controlled by voice and hand gestures. Credit: Meta

Last year at Meta Connect, the company launched the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, equipped with a built-in display capable of showing notifications, navigation directions, and other essential information. While they have been difficult to acquire, Meta assures that this will change.

The Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses are now available for purchase on the Meta website for $799.