Meta Launches Cheaper Smart Glasses Without Ray-Ban: $80 Savings and Privacy Upgrades
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Meta’s New Affordable Smart Glasses: What You Need to Know
Meta has launched a new version of its smart glasses, but this time without the Ray-Ban branding. The biggest news? They’re $80 cheaper than the previous model. Alex Himel, Meta’s VP of wearables, says the company also made important privacy improvements. If you’ve been curious about smart glasses but found them too expensive, this could be the entry point you’ve been waiting for.
How Much Cheaper Are Meta’s New Smart Glasses?
The new smart glasses cost $80 less than the Ray-Ban Stories model. That brings the starting price down to around $199, making them more accessible for everyday users. This price drop is a clear move by Meta to compete in the growing wearable tech market.
Key Features of Meta’s Ray-Ban-Free Smart Glasses
- No Ray-Ban branding: The glasses have a simpler, more generic design.
- Same core technology: They still include a camera, speakers, and touch controls.
- Privacy upgrades: Meta added a more visible LED light to show when the camera is recording.
- Lighter frame: The new design is slightly lighter for longer wear.
Privacy Improvements You Should Know About
Privacy has been a major concern with smart glasses. Alex Himel explained that Meta listened to user feedback. The new glasses include a brighter, more noticeable recording indicator. This helps people around you know when you’re capturing video or photos. Meta also improved the voice command system so it only activates when you say the wake word.
Who Are These Smart Glasses For?
These glasses are great for hands-free content creators, travelers, and anyone who wants to capture moments without pulling out a phone. The $80 savings makes them a solid option for first-time buyers. However, if you want the style of Ray-Ban, you may prefer the original version.
How Do They Compare to the Ray-Ban Stories?
| Feature | Ray-Ban Stories | New Meta Glasses |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $219 (approx.) |
| Branding | Ray-Ban | Meta only |
| Privacy LED | Small | Brighter |
| Weight | Standard | Lighter |
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Meta’s Cheaper Smart Glasses?
If you want affordable smart glasses with better privacy features, this new model is a smart choice. The $80 price cut makes a real difference. Just remember, you lose the Ray-Ban style. But for many users, the savings and privacy upgrades are worth the trade-off.
Meta’s cheaper smart glasses without Ray-Ban are now available online and in select stores.








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