Meta unveils new smart glasses with a display and wristband controller

In a significant announcement at the annual Meta Connect 2025 event, the tech giant introduced a cutting-edge pair of Ray-Ban smart glasses, equipped with an integrated display designed for applications, notifications, and navigational guidance on the right lens. The innovative device, named Meta Ray-Ban Display, is paired with a unique wristband controller known as the Meta Neural Band. This wristband recognizes subtle hand gestures, enhancing user interaction with the glasses. CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that this product will be available for purchase starting September 30 at a price point of $799. The launch marks Meta's continued efforts to create consumer smart glasses capable of performing a variety of tasks typically managed by smartphones. Historically, Meta has relied on devices from competitors like Google and Apple to reach users. While the company has invested heavily in virtual reality, it is now pivoting towards AI-driven smart glasses as a promising avenue for user engagement with its own hardware. The Meta Ray-Ban Display aims to build upon the success of previous Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which have sold millions in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica. Similar to its predecessor, the new model includes an AI assistant, along with cameras, speakers, and microphones. Users can connect to the cloud to access various internet and social media applications, including Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook, directly through the display. The glasses also offer practical features such as navigation guidance and live translation capabilities. Accompanying the glasses, the Neural Band resembles a sleek fitness tracker without a screen, enabling users to control applications with subtle hand movements. Zuckerberg highlighted the impressive battery life of 18 hours and water resistance of the Neural Band, which utilizes electromyography (EMG) technology to interpret gestures. While the Meta Ray-Ban Display is a significant advancement, it is important to note that it is less sophisticated than the previously showcased Orion smart glasses, which featured augmented reality lenses and eye tracking. There is speculation that it may take years before Meta can release a product like Orion. Nevertheless, Meta aims to establish its presence in the smart glasses market by being the first to offer a tangible product, despite the looming competition from tech giants Google and Apple, who are expected to launch their own smart glasses in the near future.