I think it’s fair to say that Meta doesn’t have a particularly bright reputation right now.
With privacy concerns surrounding Meta Glasses that celebrity endorsements can’t solve, and issues with protecting children and vulnerable people from harmful online content, it doesn’t really seem like Meta takes keeping people safe very seriously.
However, Meta seems to be trying to combat this by launching a pair of camera-less smart glasses. Yes, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio detaches itself from the creepy camera and is designed to allow users to listen to music and chat with Meta’s AI assistant (Muse) without headphones.
I totally understand why open-ear headphones are on the rise. Unless I’m on a plane or sitting in a busy office or coffee shop, proper noise-cancelling headphones no longer appeal, especially when I’m walking or running. The thought of not being aware of my surroundings seems dangerous and an unnecessary risk to take when alone. With that in mind, I really understand the thinking behind the Ray Ban Meta Audio specs, as you can listen to audio content while being alert and present to the space around you.
You can also call Meta AI to get answers to your questions without having to pick up the phone. Okay, let’s be honest, no one would ever do that, but it’s an opportunity that can’t be ignored.
And then there’s the design. With no bulky camera to find room for, the Meta doesn’t have to use the larger Ray-Ban Wayfarer or Starfire styles for its glasses, and can use the brand’s other iconic but lighter designs like the Burbank or my personal favorite, the Clubmaster.
Finally, you can add your prescription to the specs and choose from regular or tinted lenses. So in theory, if you need new glasses and open ears, the Ray Ban Meta Audio could be a good compromise.
The counterargument
So yes, there are indeed good reasons why someone might be excited about the audio-only pair. However, with a starting price of £319, the Ray Ban Meta Audio is a solid investment for the specs with built-in speakers and microphones. In fact, the pair is just £90 less than the full-fledged Meta Glasses 3rd Gen – prompting users to simply opt for the camera-clad alternative.
Then there’s Meta’s artificial intelligence assistant, Muse. Yes, it can probably come in handy if you have a question that needs to be answered immediately and don’t have time to pick up the phone or ask someone for the answer – but how often do these things actually happen?
During my time at a Meta event, I was prompted to use the glasses to ask Muse about the health benefits of sourdough. Good to know, don’t get me wrong, but I think I would have naturally just Googled the question instead of muttering to my glasses to reveal the answer.
Which brings me to my next concern. Can you imagine being caught talking to the artificial intelligence assistant living in your glasses? The thought is frankly disheartening.
What’s more, and I know I’m going to sound like a hypocrite if I say this, but at least the standard pair has cameras that can come in handy, say if you want to translate a menu or identify a plant. Of course, that doesn’t affect my overall opinion that Meta Glasses are creepybut at least it provides some justification.
The Ray Ban Meta Audio specifications have real advantages. Not only are they available in a stylish design and can be used as everyday prescription glasses, but you can also listen to audio content without wearing earphones or headphones. The glasses are also aware of their surroundings – which many of us choose to keep safe.
However, with a hefty price tag and not much else, the Ray Ban Meta Audio doesn’t seem like a great choice. The AI is a decent addition, but I doubt people will actually use it enough to justify the splurge. That said, if you want the Meta Glasses, I’d definitely say go for the voice-only iteration rather than the camera ones.
For example, I stick to my regular prescription glasses and use open-ear models like the Shokz OpenDots Air while I’m out and about.
