Breathtakingly Dynamic No-Longer Meetings Ahead
Mark Zuckerberg, during Connect 24, showcased the new Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, a pioneering device designed to replace smartphones as a new device category. The glasses, which feature a Point of View (POV) camera and a high-resolution display (600 x 600 pixels), are set to cost $799.
The Ray-Ban Meta Display might not be as popular as the classic Ray-Ban Meta (RBM) due to its novelty, but it could appeal to athletes and professionals given its functionality. Meta has partnered with EssilorLuxottica, the company behind Ray-Ban, Oakley, and many other eyewear brands, to ensure the glasses are both stylish and functional.
The Oakley Meta HSTN, another model unveiled during the event, shares the same functionality as the Meta Ray-Ban Display. The glasses' display resembles a HUD and is visible during day and night with transition lenses. A "Neural Band" wristband accompanies the glasses, allowing control through small muscle movements like a tap, making the glasses more user-friendly.
Despite the promising demonstration, there were some technical issues during the event, such as the AI assistant and Wi-Fi problems, and Zuck's inability to take a call with the new display glasses. No new information about these technical issues was provided.
Zuckerberg's vision of smart glasses is made possible by artificial intelligence (AI). The glasses require a connection to a smartphone and the Meta AI app for full functionality. The wristband, designed to be more discreet compared to the frame control of previous models, further enhances the user experience.
Meta warns that the future could look different than expected. The success of the glasses at this price point is uncertain, but there will likely be some who are willing to pay for the product. The glasses are expected to be released in France and Italy next year, with the release date for Germany yet to be announced, possibly due to regulatory reasons.
Zuck's casualness and jokes about the technical issues during the event were convincing, demonstrating the potential of these innovative devices. Despite the challenges, the unveiling of the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses and the Oakley Meta HSTN marks a significant step forward in the integration of technology into everyday life.
