Meta Unveils Oakley Smart Glasses for Athletes, Priced at $1,000
January 22, 2025The launch of these glasses may also serve as a platform for integrating Meta's virtual reality and metaverse projects, which have seen significant investment.
However, Meta's reliance on components sourced from China may pose challenges due to potential tariffs affecting production costs and pricing strategies.
Meta is expanding its lineup of smart glasses with a new model in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Oakley, which will feature a distinct design based on the Sphaera model.
Athletes using the glasses will be able to view real-time performance metrics like speed and heart rate directly through the device, enhancing their focus during activities.
Balancing augmented reality technology with meaningful face-to-face communication will be crucial as these devices evolve.
The upcoming Hypernova model is expected to include a display that projects information into the user's view, with a price tag around $1,000, significantly higher than the current Ray-Ban Meta starting at $299.
These Oakley smart glasses will utilize a camera, microphones, and speakers, providing information solely through voice without a display.
As smart glasses become more integrated into daily life, ethical concerns regarding privacy and social interactions will need to be addressed.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has emphasized the importance of affordability for widespread adoption of wearables, criticizing competitors for their high prices.
Meta's partnership with EssilorLuxottica aims to make smart glasses more appealing to a broader audience beyond just tech enthusiasts.
Unlike the existing Ray-Ban Meta glasses, the Oakley smart glasses will have a centrally placed camera, specifically designed for athletes, particularly cyclists.
The glasses will also include built-in navigation controlled via voice commands, improving safety and convenience for outdoor users.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
9to5Mac • Jan 22, 2025
Oakley smart glasses coming this year; Meta glasses with display to cost $1kDigital Trends • Jan 22, 2025
Meta's Oakley smartglasses could be the next big wearable trendsetterGizmodo • Jan 22, 2025
Meta Is Making Oakley Smart Glasses for AthletesSocial Media Today • Jan 22, 2025
Meta’s Planning to Launch New Smart Glasses, Ahead of AR Expansion