Ray-Ban Meta Audio hands-on — an attempt to allay privacy concerns
Meta revealed new camera-free Ray-Ban Meta Audio smart glasses at Meta Connect 2026 so I tried them out.
Meta has introduced its latest Ray-Ban Meta Audio smart glasses, aimed at addressing privacy concerns surrounding the company's camera-equipped models. During the Meta Connect 2026 event, the company showcased the audio-only versions, emphasizing their lighter weight and new styles like the Clubmaster with a more prominent wire frame. The glasses weigh 43 grams, nearly 10 ounces less than the camera versions, and boast a claimed 12-hour battery life compared to the previously updated 9 hours in the Gen 3 Ray-Ban Meta.
At $349, the Audio glasses launch price is higher than its camera-equipped counterparts, which start at $449 for the Gen 3 model and $379 for the Gen 2 model. The absence of a camera in the Audio glasses does not impact their functionality, as users can control volume, access Meta AI by tapping the button or saying "Hey Meta," and engage in calls or listen to music and podcasts using the built-in microphones and speakers.
The Hearing Enhancement feature for mild to moderate hearing loss remains unclear if it will be available on the Audio glasses during launch.
Overall, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses cater to those who prefer Ray-Ban designs without camera concerns. Comfortable to wear, offering an identical user experience to the camera versions, and featuring a longer battery life, these glasses provide a visually appealing alternative. However, the higher price point might be a drawback, especially considering the availability of cheaper older Ray-Ban Meta models.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
