Ray-Ban models like the Aviator, Wayfarer, and Clubmaster have garnered iconic status in eyewear fashion, and their polarized lens glass shouldn’t be overlooked either. But as timeless as these models are, we’re at a new dawn of technological development, which calls for radical innovations like the latest Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
As you can probably tell by their name tag, Ray-Ban partnered with Meta to develop their first smart glasses with internet connectivity and camera functionality. You can still get that fashionable look with innovative models like the Meta Wayfarer or Meta Headliner, only with a bit of a twist this time around.
Initially, the sound of it had me scratching my head, so the team of Cybernews experts and I got down to business and reviewed these models’ specs and user reviews. Read on to learn more about their design, build quality, camera operation, and connectivity.
Ray-Ban smart glasses overview
For my Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses review to be on point, I spent days reviewing different tests and scrolling through user ratings to see what’s unique about them and whether they make sense in the first place. After all, they are Ray-Bans, so I checked the design box right away.
They offer several models, including those with prescription lenses. Among the Meta versions, you’ll find some signature and some new models like the Wayfarer, Headliner, Skyler, and Low Bridge Fit Headliner. Regardless of the Raybans Meta model, they all include integrated Meta AI. So, you can look fashionable while finally being able to seamlessly translate that French menu item you’ve always been confused about.
Despite all the skepticism, these glasses seem as revolutionary to me as smart watches were back in the day. I was amazed by all the functions they offer, from integrated AI and audio playback to high-quality camera functions. You can even connect them with your smartphone and make calls or send texts by simply saying what will surely become a famous phrase very soon: “Hey, Meta.”
| Display: | No display screen |
| Audio: | Enhanced, Open-Ear Audio |
| Dimensions: | Custom sizes |
| Connectivity: | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Weight: | 49g |
| Phone Compatibility: | iPhone 11 or newer (iOS 14.4+) Android 10.0 or higher (example – Google Pixel 5, Galaxy S20, or newer) |
| Camera: | 12MP Ultrawide |
Ray-Ban smart glasses: pros and cons
Perhaps the best way to rate these is through the Meta glasses features and pros and cons. I’ve found them to be one of the best wearables for everyday usage, as they have some pretty neat capabilities. However, there are some drawbacks that me and my team would like to see addressed, so here’s an overview:
What are Ray-Ban smart glasses?
I’ve seen some backlash from users who don’t seem to understand what Ray-Ban smart glasses are. Essentially, they are AI glasses, but not AR devices, as they do not have any augmented reality features. Nor do they have a display or a screen, for that matter.
Instead, RayBan Meta glasses are exactly what they should be – practical, everyday eyewear with Meta’s AI assistant and some additional features. Unlike what many people think, the point is not in the lenses themselves but rather in the features integrated within the frame.
Ray-Ban did a great job keeping the good old look and design, so most of your friends probably won’t notice they are not standard glasses, even from up close. The main features are integrated cameras at the front and built-in, open-ear speakers on the lower side of the temples.
You can use the speakers to record audio and use playback functions. With the 12MP camera, you’ll even get to snap some pretty decent photos. You can combine the two through the video function of RayBan recording glasses, although the battery drains after 60 seconds of recording. Of course, there’s also the AI assistant tool, which activates with the phrase “Hey Meta,” and you can use it like your everyday AI chatbot.
Ray-Ban smart glasses features and specifications overview
Now it’s time to be a bit more critical and take on the Ray-Ban Meta glasses with their price tag in mind. I’ve checked all the features and specs so you won’t have to, and here’s a breakdown.
Design and build
My only complaint about the design of smart Ray-Ban glasses is that you can’t get them in their Aviator form. Besides that, the company did a great job keeping the integrity and design quirks we all know and love. As mentioned, you can get them in 4 different models.
My Meta Wayfarer review showed that you can choose between 7 color options, including black, gray, blue, and a pretty unique pink or orange transition. You can also get them with transitions or polarized lenses.
Audio performance
The AI assistant is directly related to the speaker system, which provides crisp, high-quality sound. Thanks to the open-ear speakers, you can even connect to your Spotify account and play your favorite tracks.
The assistant feature provides valuable information when you need it or connects with your smartphone. It will even tell you if your camera lens is dirty.
Camera capabilities
With a 12MP camera, Meta Ray-Bans won’t exactly replace your iPhone or Pixel 9 Pro for taking pictures. But, I was surprised to learn that the HDR processing does not adversely affect the color rendition of your photos.
Instead, the colors are spot-on, while the camera on the Ray-Ban video glasses activates through the frame button. The unique vantage point and the convenience of snapping a photo even while driving make it a great feature. As a side note, an LED light indicates that you’ve turned on the camera, but there’s a second delay here, so your friends may think you’ve already snapped a photo while it’s just getting ready. It's not too much of a downside, but something to note.
Connectivity
Another great feature, coupled with the Ray-Ban camera mode, is smartphone connectivity. You can easily use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect with iOS and Android devices and use social media or Spotify and Apple Music to listen to your favorite tracks.
However, considering that these glasses weren’t made by Apple or Google, the smartphone OS integration isn’t as seamless as you’d expect. It’s still enough to run essential apps, though.
Battery life and charging
One of my favorite parts of the Ray-Ban smart glasses review was the battery and charging evaluation. I learned that the glasses come with a signature Ray-Ban leather case with a twist: a USB-C port on the bottom for charging.
The nose bridge has nicely concealed connectors for charging, so they don’t affect the wearability. The advertised battery life is around 4 hours on a charge and up to 36 hours with the case. Surprisingly or not, user reviews show this is a pretty accurate estimate, giving you between 4 and 5 hours of usage even when using audio and camera features.
How much do Ray-Ban smart glasses cost?
One of my favorite things about the pricing of these AI sunglasses is that all the model types start at the same base price. There are 3 different price options, so here’s a breakdown:
- Base price for the regular Meta Wayfarer, Meta Headliner, Meta Skyler, and Meta Low Bridge Fit Headliner models.
- Mid-range price for all models with polarized lenses as an add-on.
- The premium price for all models with transition lenses.
The only exception to this rule is that the Meta Low Bridge Fit Headliner model does not have polarized lenses. Therefore, it is available in just two variations. Overall, I think the price is fair, considering you get a timeless Ray-Ban design with high-quality polarized or transition lenses.
How to use Ray-Ban smart glasses?
It’s easy to use Ray-Ban camera glasses and their Meta AI and audio functions. You just need to connect them to your smartphone for the best performance. Here’s how that’s done:
- Download the Meta app from your device’s native app store (Google Play or App Store) and pair it with your glasses using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Only iOS 14.4 and above and Android 10 and above are compatible.
- Get the Meta View app for camera functions like snapping photos and capturing video.
- Connect via Bluetooth to listen to audio or play your favorite tracks.
- Click on the hinge button for camera functions.
- Use the AI assistant with the phrase “Hey, Meta.”
To maximize battery life, I suggest carrying the glasses in the charging case when you don’t need them and recording up to 60 seconds of video instead of draining the battery with longer recordings. One quick note is to keep the glasses connected to your phone via Wi-Fi for full functionality, such as voice control and uploading pictures to social media.
Ray-Ban smart glasses user experience and reviews
Based on my findings on Reddit, Trustpilot, and similar user review platforms, I can tell that most users are reasonably satisfied. At the very least, my Ray-Ban Meta review has shown that the glasses are fun to use, and that also stands for something.
The camera is surprisingly good and very convenient for snapping photos in an instant. It’s especially convenient when driving or capturing precious family moments without anyone noticing. But, there are some drawbacks, like privacy-related concerns, which wouldn’t be the first time with Meta.
The battery life has proven to be as advertised, which is a huge plus. On top of that, you can’t go wrong with the traditional Ray-Ban design, which users have pointed out as a positive factor.
Our methodology for testing these smart glasses
My Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses review is based on technical documentation, Ray-Ban and Meta’s official websites, ads, user reviews, and expert opinions on the product. My team and I did our best to analyze user reviews, noting even the slightest backlash and positive feedback from users who had the glasses for extended periods. To give you unbiased information, I grouped my findings into categories, such as:
- Availability and reputation (15%): I checked user reviews based on my findings on forums and customer satisfaction platforms to ensure these smart glasses are on par with the usual Ray Ban quality expectations.
- Visual and audio features (35%): Considering the price of these glasses, I wanted to check and see how much their visual and audio features really add to the value. After my research, I concluded that the 12MP camera and integrated open-ear speakers are the biggest value contributors.
- Mobile compatibility and connectivity (20%): I also had to check the smartphone compatibility to see how convenient these really are for owners of different devices.
- Target users and functions (30%): Finally, I reviewed these glasses with an end-user in mind. They are advertised as useful both in terms of the integrated Meta AI assistant and their camera and audio features, so I wanted to see if they suit all the claimed target users.
Our final verdict on Ray-Ban smart glasses
Ultimately, it all comes down to balancing fashionable design and functionality, and that’s the basis for my Ray-Ban Meta glasses review. I’ve read numerous questions, such as "Are Ray-Bans worth it?” and after my extensive research, I can now give you definitive answers.
The glasses place Meta's AI assistant at your fingertips and give you hands-free audio and camera operation. The speaker and camera quality is excellent for the price, and that’s where you need to consider you’re paying for the Ray-Ban quality and look as well.
The battery life is decent, but it could be improved with the next generation. The weight at the temples can also be tiring for your ears after extended use. However, the numerous benefits, like the seamless capture of valuable everyday moments and the sheer enjoyment of using these glasses, far outweigh any drawbacks.
I’d say they are a perfect fit for users who are not looking for AR/VR glasses but rather stealth AI wearables. For an extra charge, you can get an integrated camera, speakers, and an AI assistant, which is excellent value at hand.
FAQ
Are Ray-Ban smart glasses waterproof?
Yes, smart Ray-Bans come with an IPX4 water resistance rating, so you don’t have to worry about splashes or slight rain affecting their integrity. You can even use them for activities like kayaking and just wipe the water with a cloth. However, they are not fully waterproof, meaning they should not be submerged in water or exposed to heavy rain for extended periods.
Can I use Ray-Ban smart glasses with prescription lenses?
Yes, you can get prescription lenses fitted in your Ray-Bans smart glasses. You can even get prescription lenses with transition for inside use as well. This means you can customize them to match your vision needs, whether you require single-vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses.
How do Ray-Ban smart glasses compare to competitors?
Ray-Ban music glasses beat the closest competition for playing Spotify and Apple Music tracks, capturing camera moments, and having a competitive price by being just a bit more expensive than standard Ray-Bans. These glasses maintain a stylish, classic Ray-Ban design while incorporating smart features seamlessly. But they can’t be compared with AR wearables like XReal Air.
Do the glasses require a Meta account?
Yes, you must have a Meta account to use Rayban camera glasses. To use the camera function, you’ll need a Meta View app. To configure the smartphone connection, you will need to download the Meta app on your device first. If you don’t have a Meta account, you will be required to create one during the initial setup process.
Is there any subscription required for additional features?
No, you won’t need a subscription for additional features of Ray-Bans meta glasses. All core functions, including music playback, hands-free calling, and photo/video capture, are included without extra cost. However, you need to have a Meta account, or create one, or you won’t be able to use the camera and AI features.
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