The much-anticipated collaboration between Meta and Oakley is set to be unveiled this Friday, June 20th, with the launch of a new line of smart glasses. This announcement comes after months of speculation and teasers on social media, including the creation of a dedicated Oakley Meta Instagram channel. The new product is expected to follow in the footsteps of the successful Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, but with a sportier twist.
According to early leaks, the Oakley Meta Smart Glasses will feature a centered camera on frames reminiscent of Oakley’s Sphaera design. This contrasts with the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which have a camera positioned on the left side of the frame. The new glasses are rumored to cater more to athletes, offering functionality that supports sports activities like running and cycling.
The Evolution of Smart Glasses
The announcement of this partnership marks a significant development in the wearable tech industry. Meta’s previous collaboration with Ray-Ban resulted in the popular Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which have sold over two million units. These glasses integrated technology seamlessly into a stylish design, allowing users to capture photos and videos with ease.
The Oakley Meta Smart Glasses are expected to build on this foundation, offering features that appeal to a more active demographic. While the Ray-Ban Metas focused on style and general functionality, the Oakley version is likely to emphasize durability and sports compatibility.
Design and Features
While official images have yet to be released, mock-ups suggest that the Oakley Meta Smart Glasses will incorporate a centered camera beneath the nose bridge, similar to the Xreal One series. This positioning is expected to enhance the user experience for athletes who require hands-free recording capabilities during their activities.
Unlike the ENGO 2 HUD smart glasses, which include a small screen for stat tracking, the Oakley Meta glasses are not expected to feature a display. Instead, they will likely focus on streaming and recording, with the battery and electronics housed in the arms of the glasses. This design choice aligns with Meta’s previous smart glasses and ensures a comfortable fit during physical activities.
Implications for the Wearable Tech Market
The introduction of Oakley Meta Smart Glasses highlights the growing trend of integrating technology into everyday accessories. As more consumers seek multifunctional devices, companies like Meta are poised to capitalize on this demand by offering innovative products that blend style, technology, and practicality.
According to industry experts, the partnership with Oakley could position Meta as a leader in the sports-focused wearable tech market. The success of the Ray-Ban Metas demonstrates a strong market appetite for smart glasses, and the Oakley collaboration could further expand Meta’s reach.
“The Oakley Meta Smart Glasses are expected to be a game-changer for athletes, offering a blend of style and functionality that has been missing in the market,” said a tech industry analyst.
Looking Ahead
As the wearable tech industry continues to evolve, Meta’s strategic partnerships with established brands like Oakley and Ray-Ban underscore its commitment to innovation. The company is also rumored to be working on a third generation of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, potentially featuring a display in one of the lenses. However, this release is not expected until Meta Connect 2025 in mid-September.
For now, all eyes are on the upcoming Oakley Meta Smart Glasses announcement. With their focus on sports and active lifestyles, these glasses could set a new standard for wearable tech in the athletic sector. As consumers eagerly await the official launch, the question remains: will the Oakley Meta Smart Glasses achieve the same level of success as their Ray-Ban counterparts?
