Next-gen Ray-Ban Meta glasses may last hours on a single charge, leak suggests

Meta is reportedly preparing to unveil a significant upgrade to its Ray-Ban smart glasses, with recent leaks suggesting the development of two new models. While smart eyewear has yet to become a staple in everyday life, Meta remains committed to popularizing this technology, aiming to enhance both functionality and user experience. The leaked information, originating from the XR Research Institute via WeChat, details two distinct models, codenamed “Aperol” and “Bellini.” Aperol appears to be a modernized version of Ray-Ban’s iconic sunglasses, while Bellini seems specifically designed for those who require prescription lenses, potentially broadening Meta’s appeal to a wider audience. Beyond the aesthetic differences, the most exciting aspect of these new models is their anticipated technological advancements. Current iterations of the smart glasses are limited by a battery life that supports AI features for only about half an hour, a constraint that has drawn criticism. However, the upcoming models are rumored to extend this functionality to several hours, allowing users to engage with the glasses for longer periods without the need for frequent recharges. In addition to improved battery life, the new Ray-Ban glasses are expected to feature enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities. This could include real-time object recognition and scene analysis, offering users practical applications that go beyond mere novelty. This would represent a substantial advancement compared to the 2023 models, where AI functionalities were primarily limited to short, specific tasks such as capturing photos or answering basic queries. It’s important to note that these new models are not expected to include built-in displays, distinguishing them from Meta’s ambitious “Hypernova” project, which is rumored to focus on augmented reality features. Instead, these glasses seem to be a natural evolution of the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta wearables that launched last year. While an official release date has yet to be confirmed, industry insiders speculate that a launch could occur later this year, following Meta’s recent introduction of Oakley-branded smart glasses in June.