They were labelled 'pervert glasses'. Will a camera-free version transform their image?

Meta's AI-powered smart glasses, initially launched in 2023 in collaboration with Ray-Ban, have faced controversy due to being used to harass women and girls without their consent and share the footage. Some retailers, schools, and other locations have banned the devices. However, Meta is set to unveil a new version called Ray-Ban Meta Audio, which does not contain a camera, aiming to address privacy concerns.

This camera-free version will have audio functions similar to the original glasses but with improved battery life and a lighter frame, and it will be cheaper. While some in the tech industry view this as a response to backlash over privacy, Meta maintains that the product has been in development for two years. The audio-only glasses may represent a shift in how tech companies perceive the future of smart glasses, but their overall impact and sales remain uncertain.

Some users have found the gadgets useful for various purposes, including listening to music, podcasts, and maps, as well as assisting individuals with visual impairments. However, critics argue that such devices should not be available to the general population due to privacy concerns.