Meta unveils Ray-Ban Meta Audio, its first smart glasses without a camera

Meta introduced Ray-Ban Meta Audio at Meta Connect 2026, its first pair of smart glasses without a camera. The new model starts at $349, pre-orders are already open, and shipments begin on October 13.

Audio and Meta AI instead of a camera

The glasses can take calls, let you reply to messages by voice, and play music and podcasts while keeping you aware of your surroundings. They also provide access to Meta AI, including live translation and instant answers to questions.

According to Engadget, Meta does not present the new model as a response to criticism of its camera-equipped glasses, whose invasive use earned them the nickname "pervert glasses." Instead, the company says audio has always been the most popular feature of its smart glasses. Meta is also closing the loophole that allowed people to record with the camera models while the recording light was covered.

Hardware: 12 hours of battery, 43 grams

A single charge lasts up to 12 hours, and the charging case adds another 48 hours. The glasses also weigh 43 grams, making them lighter than Meta's other models, which range from 49.2 grams (Ray-Ban Meta Optics) to 69 grams (the largest size of Meta Ray-Ban Display). Meta kept the same fit options as its previous frames, including adjustable temple tips, customizable nose pads and overextension hinges — spring hinges built to fit a wider range of head shapes and widths.

Design and availability

Without a camera and a recording light, the frames look even more like ordinary glasses; only the slightly larger temples and speaker cutouts give them away. Meta sells the glasses in two styles — the rectangular Burbank and the retro-inspired Clubmaster — in 23 color and lens combinations, with support for a range of optical prescriptions.

Engadget notes the new model is unlikely to convert critics, but it could appeal to people who feel uncomfortable with smart glasses in general. A lot may depend on whether Meta releases the facial recognition feature it was previously testing.