Technology mogul Meta has recently unveiled its first new smart glasses with a built-in display. Branded Ray-Ban, the glasses can be controlled via the Meta Neural Band, a wristband that senses subtle arm movements, allowing users to navigate the menu with gestures like finger-rubbing.
This is Meta’s first pair of glasses to combine augmented reality (AR) with artificial intelligence (AI), allowing users to access messages, captions, and video calls over the view from one eye. “Glasses are the only form factor where you can let AI see what you see, hear what you hear,” said Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta.
The innovative glasses feature a display that’s large enough to look through without obstructing the vision, yet bright and sharp enough to stay readable even in direct sunlight. Additionally, only the wearer can see the display, and it disappears when it isn’t used.
Among other functions like voice control, the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses can take photos and videos, preview the recordings, provide real-time translations, and share context-aware assistance like giving directions and sending reminders. What’s more, Meta has improved the battery life, offering up to eight hours of use.
Live captions and translation
Language barriers can make travel challenging, but live translation in these cases can be a game-changer. While Meta’s previous smart glasses also featured live translation, the Meta Ray-Ban Display takes it a step further, displaying the translated text in front of the wearer. Moreover, those who have issues hearing would be able to see live captions of the person talking to them.
Taking videos and photos
When travelling, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to capture it. Designed with a real-time camera viewfinder and zoom functionality, adventurers are able to get good shots on their first try. Additionally, the display makes it simple to review and pick favourites to share online, even without reaching for a phone.
Following turn-by-turn directions
Constantly checking a phone for the right directions and ensuring you’re not lost can disrupt exploration. With the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses providing turn-by-turn directions, travellers can fully immerse themselves in their surroundings. What’s more, the smart glasses can also give recommendations on restaurants, cafes, stores, and other interesting places in the vicinity. Navigation is currently available in select cities, with plans for expansion, allowing users to follow a map and see walking directions on the display.
Accessing entertainment on the go
Those who opt to purchase the Meta Ray-Ban Display sunglasses would be able to keep track of their tune through a music card displayed right on the sunglasses. Users can swipe with their thumb to skip tracks during a train ride or while switching buses, while pinching or twisting their fingers would allow them to adjust the volume as if they were turning a knob. This feature is handy for tuning out airport noises or setting a vibe during a road trip.
Meta’s Ray-Ban Display glasses are now on sale for $799 (€682).
