Meta is expanding its wearable technology portfolio with a new collaboration targeted specifically at active users. Introducing the limited-edition Oakley Meta HSTN model smart glasses, a sportier evolution built upon the foundation of the successful Ray-Ban Meta partnership.
These new smart glasses keep the distinctive Oakley form factor, renowned for its flexible and rugged design. This makes them particularly well-suited for athletes and individuals seeking durable eyewear capable of capturing their perspective during dynamic activities like running, biking, or other fast-action sports.
Like their Ray-Ban predecessors, the Oakley Meta glasses feature camera sensors discreetly embedded along the sides, making them a practical tool for hands-free recording. However, they bring several significant enhancements to the table, directly addressing user feedback and pushing the capabilities beyond the original Ray-Ban version.
Key Upgrades Over Ray-Ban Meta
The Oakley Meta smart glasses aren’t just a different frame; they offer tangible performance improvements:
Enhanced Durability
Designed for the outdoors and active use, the Oakley model boasts an IPX4 water resistance rating. This provides a step up in durability, making them more resilient against sweat and light splashes compared to the standard Ray-Ban Meta glasses.
Sharper Video Quality
One of the most notable upgrades is in video capture. The Oakley glasses record video in crisp 3K resolution, a substantial leap from the 1080p offered by the Meta Ray-Bans. This means clearer, more detailed footage of your activities.
Double the Battery Life
Addressing a key pain point of the earlier model, battery performance is significantly improved. Meta states the Oakley glasses deliver up to 8 hours of usage, effectively doubling the approximately 4-hour battery life found on the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. This allows for extended recording and use throughout a busy day of activity.
Integrated Meta AI for Hands-Free Use
The convenience of integrated artificial intelligence remains a core feature. Users can easily access the Meta AI assistant directly from the glasses using just their voice or via a long press on the frame. This hands-free functionality is especially beneficial for athletes who need to remain focused on their physical activity without fumbling for a phone.
Pricing, Availability, and Market Context
The launch of the Oakley Meta glasses continues the successful alliance between Meta and EssilorLuxottica, the eyewear giant that owns both Oakley and Ray-Ban. The initial Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses proved incredibly popular, with EssilorLuxottica reporting sales of two million pairs since their October 2023 debut. Meta even claims the Ray-Ban model is the number one selling AI glasses globally.
The limited-edition Oakley Meta HSTN model is initially priced at $499. However, Meta has confirmed that additional models will become available later this summer at a more accessible price point of $399. For comparison, the standard Meta Ray-Ban glasses range from $240 to $300, depending on the specific model.
The Oakley Meta glasses will be available in five different frame and lens combinations and offer support for prescription lenses. Preorders are set to begin on July 11, with availability planned for the US, Canada, and several markets across Europe and Australia including the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
The Future of Smart Glasses Competition
The smart glasses market is rapidly evolving. While Meta expands its lineup, competitors like Google and Apple are also reportedly developing their own entries into the space. Meta itself isn’t standing still, with rumors circulating about a third generation of its smart glasses already in the works, potentially featuring a built-in display – a development likely to be unveiled later this year, possibly at Meta Connect.
With their focus on enhanced durability, significantly improved video quality, and extended battery life, the new Oakley Meta smart glasses are positioned as a compelling upgrade, particularly for the active individual ready to embrace wearable technology to capture their world.
