Meta’s Next Smart Glasses May Match the iPhone’s Price
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Smart glasses could be the future of personal computing. Could they go as far as replacing your iPhone or other smartphone? Time will tell.
Many early Vision Pro adopters have expressed buyer’s remorse after shelling out $3,500 for Apple’s heavy and cumbersome headset with limited practical applications. Although rumors suggest a lighter, more budget-friendly Vision Pro may be on the way, along with true smart glasses, nothing is confirmed.
On the flip side, a recent report claims that Meta’s next-gen smart glasses may only be a month away and more “affordable” than expected, especially when compared to the Vision Pro.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported today that Meta’s new smart glasses, developed under a project codenamed “Hypernova,” could launch as soon as a month from now and start at $800. That’s $200 less than expected and consistent with the iPhone 17’s anticipated base model pricing.
While $800 is much more than Meta’s $499 Quest 3S VR headset, which is more akin to the Vision Pro and its current Ray-Ban smart glasses ($299), Meta is hopeful the lower price point for their new glasses will spark more widespread adoption.
Meta’s current Ray-Ban smart glasses have a camera but no display. While most smart glasses offer a display for both eyes, Meta’s latest release may only include a display for one eye that’s in the lower right corner behind the lens. This move could increase functionality while minimizing distraction at the same time. Checking the display would require a purposeful look downward as opposed to being constantly visible.
Meta’s updated version of its Ray-Bans should include an updated camera, the ability to view maps, check social notifications, view media, and a wristband allowing for gesture control. The glasses will certainly incorporate AI integration as well. Similar to the current Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, the latest model will likely be available for order with prescription lenses and will allow you to use your HSA or FSA to pay for them.
It appears the next wave of personal computing is upon us. In addition to these smart glasses from Meta and potentially from Apple next year, Google recently debuted its upcoming smart glasses in a TED talk. Are smart glasses a viable replacement for our iPhones? We’ll have to try to find out. Will you test the waters with Meta or wait patiently for Apple to catch up?
