Meta's new Ray-Ban glasses drop the cameras to focus only on audio

Meta has announced a couple of new products at its annual Connect event, and among them are the Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses. These are Meta's first first audio glasses, and were made in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company for Ray-Ban and Oakley. 

The Ray-Ban Meta Audio are described as audio AI glasses that combine glasses and headphones into one device. They also lack cameras, which is great for those who want a pair of smart glasses without cameras. With the glasses, users will be able to connect their favorite audio apps for hands-free listening.

The glasses can also be used to make and receive calls, and with Meta AI built-in, they can do more such as ask questions and set reminders, without the need to reach for their phone. Meta says the glasses are not always-listening, so the only ways to activate Meta AI is by saying “Hey Meta” or pressing the action button on the right temple. The glasses also have a six-microphone array and open-ear speakers.

Available in two main styles — Clubmaster and Burbank, Meta says buyers can choose from 23 color and lens combinations. The glasses are compatible with optical prescriptions. They are also pretty light at 43 grams, which Meta claims makes them suitable for all-day wear. The Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses have a battery life of up to 12 hours, and up to an additional 48 hours with the charging case.

The Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses are available to pre-order now with a starting price of $349 in the US, £319 in the UK, and €349 in the rest of Europe. This makes them more expensive than the Meta Glasses (available for $299 on Amazon) announced earlier this year. The new Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses will begin to ship on October 13.