Meta's smart glasses have always come with a catch: a camera on your face that makes some people around you uneasy. Ray-Ban Meta Audio, announced at Meta Connect 2026, drops the camera entirely and focuses on open-ear sound, calls and Meta's AI assistant. Prices start at $349, with preorders opening on October 13.
There are two new frame styles, the rectangular Burbank and the retro Clubmaster, across 23 colour and lens combinations, and prescription lenses are available. Battery life is rated at up to 12 hours, or up to 48 hours with the charging case.
Ray-Ban Meta Audio at a glance
Characteristics and opinion
The Ray-Ban Meta Audio smart glasses stand out by omitting the cameras that typically raise privacy issues. This design decision positions them as a preferred option for those wary of being perceived as intrusive. They cater to users who desire functional audio capabilities while dismissing the surveillance concerns associated with camera-equipped smart glasses.
These glasses excel in audio performance, making them an ideal choice for runners or commuters who like to enjoy music while staying aware of their surroundings. They offer transition lenses that adjust efficiently to changes in lighting, and they are lightweight enough for all-day wear. However, the sound does leak, which may be a consideration for those using them in quiet environments.
Key specifications
- Audio-only design (no cameras)
- Transition lenses
- Up to 48 hours with the charging case
- 12-hour battery life
- 43 grams (Burbank model), 47 grams (Clubmaster model)
- ✓Excellent audio quality and call performance
- ✓Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- ✓No camera, eliminating privacy concerns
- ✓Effective transition lenses
- ·Sound leakage
- ·Chunky frame design
- ·Pricey compared to regular glasses
How to choose
Start with what you actually want from smart glasses. If you mainly want music, podcasts, calls and a voice assistant without earbuds, and you or the people around you are uncomfortable with cameras, Ray-Ban Meta Audio is the more natural fit. If you want to capture hands-free photos and video, the camera-equipped Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) models are still the better buy.
Also consider where you will use them. Open-ear speakers let you hear traffic and colleagues, but some sound leaks at higher volumes, so they are less discreet in quiet offices or on public transport. Try the frames on if you can, as the temples are thicker than regular glasses.
Conclusion
Ray-Ban Meta Audio is the most privacy-friendly way into Meta's smart glasses. Strong audio, all-day comfort and a lower starting price make it a smart choice for listeners and commuters, while anyone who wants to record their day should stick with the camera models.
