Meta introduces camera‑free smart glasses and Muse AI assistant amid global privacy concerns

Meta unveiled new AI-powered wearables on September 24 at its annual Connect conference, amid growing global concerns over privacy issues related to cameras on smart glasses. CEO Mark Zuckerberg presented an audio-only, camera-free version of the company's smart glasses, alongside a new personal AI assistant called Muse. Zuckerberg stated that almost 2 billion people currently wear glasses and believes most will be upgraded with AI technology in the coming years.

The audio-only smart glasses, set to launch on October 13 for $349, will complement a range of other smart glasses models that still permit photo and video recording. Meta's vice president of AI product, Vishal Shah, emphasized the importance of privacy features, such as a recording indicator light, in addressing global concerns over "pervert" glasses. Meta has faced scrutiny over privacy violations from tiny cameras integrated into various wearables.

Meta aims to leverage the widespread usage of its platform, with over four billion monthly active users, to promote adoption of its AI software through wearables. The company previously launched smart glasses in 2021 and display glasses that project images onto the lens. This year, Meta released its own AI-branded glasses, separate from its partnership with eyewear maker EssilorLuxottica, which produces Meta models like Ray-Ban and Oakley.

Zuckerberg showcased new styles of Meta's Ray-Ban glasses and hinted at the introduction of mixed reality glasses, called Meta VR Glasses, expected to launch in spring 2027 for $1,299. These glasses will be lighter than its earlier Quest VR headsets, weighing approximately as much as a deck of cards, and will rely on hand gestures and voice commands for control.

Meta has invested heavily in AI but faces criticism on multiple fronts. The company has partnered with various brands, including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Gap, and Sephora, through Muse's integration. However, Meta is also grappling with child safety and privacy challenges, recently settling a lawsuit with US states for up to $18 billion to address violations of consumer protection and children's online privacy laws. The company continues to face restrictions and potential lawsuits in the US over age-based limitations.