Technology

Meta announces camera-free Ray-Ban Audio smart glasses starting at $349

The company introduced an audio-focused model following privacy disputes, stating it spent two years developing the design.

Updated Sep 24, 2026 · 02:35 UTC2 reports

The short version

Meta unveiled Ray-Ban Meta Audio, an audio-only smart glasses model without built-in cameras, starting at $349.[Business Insider · BBC News]
The frames will be sold in Burbank and Clubmaster styles, with customer shipments scheduled to begin on October 13.[Business Insider]
Meta stated the glasses were developed over two years, denying allegations that the camera-free version was rushed to market.[BBC News]
Ray-Ban parent EssilorLuxottica previously reported seven million smart glasses sold, while Meta claims under 0.1% have been physically tampered with.[BBC News]

Meta is releasing an audio-only version of its smart glasses called Ray-Ban Meta Audio, which eliminates cameras and starts at $349.[Business Insider · BBC News]
The Ray-Ban Meta Audio line will be available in Burbank and Clubmaster styles and starts shipping October 13.[Business Insider]
Meta stated that the audio-only model was not rushed in response to public anger and spent two years in development.[BBC News]
Ray-Ban parent company EssilorLuxottica reported selling seven million smart glasses last year.[BBC News]
Meta claims that less than 0.1% of its smart glasses frames sold worldwide have been physically tampered with.[BBC News]

Exact worldwide sales totals for Meta smart glasses have not been disclosed beyond EssilorLuxottica's annual report.[BBC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.