Meta delays Ray-Ban Display glasses global rollout due to inventory limits, U.S. demand

Meta Platforms has announced a delay in the global rollout of its Ray-Ban Display glasses, citing inventory shortages and an unprecedented surge in demand within the United States. In a blog post released on Tuesday, the company stated, "Since launching last fall, we've seen an overwhelming amount of interest, and as a result, product waitlists now extend well into 2026." As a consequence of the limited inventory, Meta will halt its plans to expand into markets like the U.K., France, Italy, and Canada, focusing instead on fulfilling orders from U.S. customers while reassessing its international strategy. The collaboration between Meta and Luxottica, the renowned maker of Ray-Ban glasses, has been ongoing since 2019, with a renewed partnership deal established in 2024. The Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, priced at $799, were unveiled by CEO Mark Zuckerberg in September. These innovative glasses represent Meta's first venture into consumer-ready AI eyewear, enabling users to watch videos and respond to messages, all controlled via a wristband utilizing neural technology. In related news, EssilorLuxottica reported a revenue increase in the third quarter, in part attributed to its partnership with Meta. The smart glasses market is heating up, with other major players like Alphabet and OpenAI also making strides; Alphabet recently formed a $150 million partnership with Warby Parker, while OpenAI is rumored to be developing AI glasses in collaboration with Apple.