7 things to expect at Meta Connect 2026 —from camera-less smart glasses to Meta Ray-ban glasses updates

Meta Connect 2026 is approaching, and attendees can expect several new devices and updates from the tech giant. Camera-free smart glasses are rumored to be a big focus, addressing privacy concerns surrounding the use of smart glasses as surveillance devices. These potential camera-free glasses would likely be centered around conversational interactions with Meta's AI chatbot.

Another potential highlight at Meta Connect is the unveiling of Project Phoenix, a mixed reality headset. While official details are scarce, early leaks suggest this device could feature both AR and VR functionality, and may have an external battery or processor to aid in a sleeker design.

Leak information also points to the possibility of new update iterations of Oakley and Ray-Ban smart glasses. Oakley's Meta HSTN glasses may see a second generation, while Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 glasses could boast better battery life, advanced AI features, and improved audio capabilities.

Meta is also expected to launch the Ray-Ban Display Glasses globally, following a delay due to high demand. The glasses, originally planned for early 2026 release, have been priced at a premium of $800 in the US, a situation likely to continue globally.

The ongoing RAM crisis may also result in price hikes for new-generation models of various smart glasses, including the Oakley Meta and Ray-Ban Meta devices. Meta's AI agent, Meta Muse, is rumored to receive software updates and potentially a new model, with its availability possibly expanding to countries outside the US.

Finally, Meta is expected to address privacy concerns stemming from existing smart glasses, aiming to prevent surreptitious photography and video recording. Recent updates have already reduced camera activation when an LED is covered, but Meta may introduce further measures to ensure user privacy and security.