Success of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have seen tremendous success, retailing at $299. According to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, demand for these glasses has significantly exceeded production capabilities, showcasing their popularity in the market.

Since their launch, the smart glasses have reached a milestone of over 1 million pairs sold within a two-year span.

HyperNova Specifications and Features

Meta is preparing to introduce the HyperNova, their first smartphone replacement smart glasses, which are anticipated to hit the market by the end of this year. These smart glasses are designed to compete directly with devices like Apple’s iPhone.

Internally referred to as HyperNova, these glasses will allow users to:

• Run various applications
• Recognize hand gestures
• Capture photos
• Access navigation directions through apps like Google Maps

Pricing is still under consideration, with estimates ranging from $1,000 to $1,400, posing a competitive threat to Apple’s iPhone 16, priced between $799 and $1,200.

Unique Features of HyperNova

A major advancement of the HyperNova over the existing Ray-Ban Meta glasses is its embedded screen, which activates when the glasses are turned. This feature displays useful information, including map directions, in the lower right corner of the right lens, allowing users to view details discreetly by looking downward.

In contrast, the current Ray-Ban Meta model lacks a screen and relies on voice commands and physical buttons for operation.

Accompanying Technology and Design

The HyperNova promises improved camera capabilities compared to its predecessor and will include a neural wristband controller. This innovative controller will enable users to navigate the glasses seamlessly using intuitive hand gestures, such as clicking items by touching their index finger and thumb together. Additionally, users can further control the device directly through touch gestures on the glasses’ frame.

Expectations are high for the unveiling of HyperNova at Meta’s annual Meta Connect Conference, with a planned release in September. Last year, this event saw the introduction of the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and previews for other projects such as Orion.

Future Perspectives and Market Competition

Meta’s advancement in smart glasses doesn’t stop with the HyperNova. The company is also exploring other projects, including the SuperNova 2, designed for sporting activities without a display, and the HyperNova 2, which aims to feature two screens for each eye, projected for release in 2027.

According to CounterPoint Research, the growing demand for Ray-Ban Meta glasses has led to a remarkable 200% increase in global smart glasses shipments year-on-year, with Meta commanding over 60% of the smart glasses market share in 2024.

However, competition is heating up, particularly from major players like Samsung and Apple. Reports from Etnews indicate that Samsung is working on smart glasses featuring displays and speakers, scheduled for release later this year, while Apple has begun conducting focus groups to explore smart glasses development as of November.