Meta and EssilorLuxottica Introduce Oakley Meta HSTN Smart Glasses
In a bold move to expand their collaboration, Meta and EssilorLuxottica have unveiled the Oakley Meta HSTN smart glasses, a new addition tailored primarily for athletes. Announced recently, these smart glasses mark the first step beyond their earlier ventures under the Ray-Ban brand.
Designed for Performance and Connectivity
The Oakley Meta HSTN, pronounced "how-stun," come equipped with advanced features aimed at enhancing athletic performance. At a starting price of $399, the glasses integrate Oakley’s renowned PRIZM Lens technology, which adapts to shifting light and weather conditions to improve visual clarity outdoors.
Beyond optics, the HSTN offers a longer battery life and an upgraded camera compared to its predecessor, the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Users can interact with Meta’s AI assistant through voice commands facilitated by a connected smartphone app, enabling hands-free access to weather updates or video recording during activities.
Style Meets Functionality
The Oakley Meta HSTN comes in various frame and lens color options, including a striking gray frame paired with red lenses and an all-black model with black lenses. Importantly, these glasses are water-resistant, adding durability for active, outdoor use.
Additionally, a limited-edition version featuring gold lenses and accents will be launched at a premium price of $499. Preorders for this exclusive model open on July 11, with the standard version set to become widely available later this summer.
Expanding Horizons Beyond Ray-Ban
This release signals the deepening partnership between Meta and EssilorLuxottica, building on the success of their initial smart glasses launch in 2021 and the popular Ray-Ban Meta line introduced in 2023. Notably, reports indicate plans for AI-powered smart glasses under the Prada brand are also in development, although no official timeline has been disclosed.
Competitive Landscape in Smart Eyewear
The smart glasses market is heating up, with major tech players vying for dominance. Alphabet recently forged a substantial $150 million partnership to develop AI-integrated smart eyewear utilizing its Gemini AI technology. Meanwhile, Snap is preparing to debut its sixth-generation augmented reality glasses next year, signaling ongoing innovation across the sector.
The Road Ahead for AI-Powered Eyewear
The Oakley Meta HSTN represents a compelling blend of sport-centric features, AI integration, and style. With giants like Meta and EssilorLuxottica pushing the boundaries, smart glasses are evolving from niche gadgets into versatile devices poised to impact everyday life and athletic performance alike.
