EssilorLuxottica and Meta have expanded their wearables portfolio, unveiling three new AI glasses at Meta Connect that “push the boundaries” of eyewear design, functionality, and integration.
Meta Connect, which took place on 17-18 September, is a two-day, livestream event featuring the latest innovations in AI glasses, metaverse technologies and beyond.
Meta’s partnership with EssilorLuxottica, which has already delivered the world’s top-selling AI eyewear Ray-Ban Meta and the sport-focused Oakley Meta HSTN, is now introducing Oakley Meta Vanguard, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2), and the new Meta Ray-Ban Display.
Building on Oakley Meta HSTN, the new Oakley Meta Vanguard introduces what the companies describe as the era of “athletic intelligence”. Its features include:
- 12MP ultra-wide camera with 122° field of view
- High-decibel open-ear speakers with wind noise reduction
- IP67 water and dust resistance, optimised for endurance sports
- Integration with Garmin and Strava for real-time performance insights
- Nine hours of typical mixed-use battery life (plus 36 hours via charging case)
With swappable PRIZM lenses, helmet compatibility and four colour options, the glasses are designed to meet the demands of cyclists, runners, and athletes training in harsh conditions. Pre-orders are open now at US$499.
The updated Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) delivers:
- Extended 8-hour battery life
- Ultra-wide 12MP camera capturing 3K ultra-HD video
- Expanded range of styles and colours
- Availability with prescription and Transitions Gen S lenses
Ray-Ban Wayfarer frosted-matte-clear Transitions ruby tilt fold. Image: EssilorLuxottica
Meta also announced Conversation Focus, an upcoming AI-driven feature that enhances speech clarity by amplifying the voice of a conversation partner against ambient background noise in busy environments. The glasses are available from US$379.
The most advanced release is Meta Ray-Ban Display, which integrates a discreet full-colour visual display into the right lens. Features include:
- Real-time display of messages, photo previews, video calls, and step-by-step AI instructions
- Prescription compatibility with Transitions lenses
- Control via Meta Neural Band, an EMG wristband that interprets subtle finger and hand movements
Available from 30 September in the US (US$799), the device is slated for rollout in Canada, France, Italy, and the UK in early 2026.
EssilorLuxottica CEO Mr Francesco Milleri described the launch as the “next horizon” for consumer eyewear, highlighting the blending of advanced lens technology with AI capability. Meta founder Mr Mark Zuckerberg said the glasses represent the “ideal form factor to eventually deliver superintelligence.”
For Australian eyecare professionals, the rapid evolution of AI eyewear raises questions around integration with prescription lenses, consumer adoption, and future patient demand for wearable vision-tech hybrids.
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