Meta's highly anticipated Connect 2025 conference is just around the corner, promising significant advancements in wearable technology and artificial intelligence. The event is poised to highlight Meta's dedication to integrating AI into its hardware, with a particular focus on the evolution of smart glasses. Enthusiasts and industry observers alike are keen to witness the unveiling of new devices and strategic directions that could reshape our interaction with digital interfaces and the burgeoning metaverse.
A major focus of the upcoming Connect conference will be the introduction of new smart glasses featuring an integrated display. Reports indicate these glasses will incorporate a compact screen within the right lens, offering a limited field of view designed to present essential information discreetly. A key innovation accompanying these glasses is a wristband utilizing surface electromyography (sEMG) technology. This sophisticated system is capable of detecting and interpreting electrical signals from hand movements, enabling intuitive gesture-based control of the glasses. Meta's acquisition of CTRL-Labs in 2019 laid the groundwork for this technology, which was previously showcased with their augmented reality Orion glasses. The company holds a strong belief that sEMG will fundamentally alter how individuals engage with their devices, potentially becoming the universal input method for a wide range of gadgets.
These innovative smart glasses are projected to be priced around $800. Speculations suggest they might have a slightly bulkier and heavier design compared to Meta's existing offerings. Recent leaks, including a now-deleted video, hinted at the imminent launch of a \"Meta | Ray-Ban\" branded device with a display, underscoring the readiness of this technology for consumer markets.
Beyond the new display-equipped models, Meta is also expected to update its successful line of smart glasses without integrated displays. The current Ray-Ban Meta glasses have achieved considerable sales, with EssilorLuxottica reporting two million units sold. The timing aligns for a third-generation release, potentially incorporating enhancements seen in the Oakley Meta HSTN Limited Edition glasses, such as improved 3K video resolution and extended battery life. Additionally, the leaked video also teased new wraparound \"Sphaera\" Oakleys, distinguished by a camera positioned on the nose bridge, suggesting an expansion of their camera-centric smart eyewear portfolio.
While new virtual reality headsets are not anticipated at this year's Connect, Meta continues to invest in the VR ecosystem. The company plans to release an ultra-light headset in 2026, which will offload computing power to an external puck running its Horizon OS. Furthermore, Meta has begun licensing Horizon OS to other hardware manufacturers, with rumors swirling about Asus developing a VR headset, codenamed Tarius, that would feature eye and face tracking. These developments indicate Meta's long-term vision for virtual reality and its commitment to fostering a broader VR hardware landscape. Mark Zuckerberg is also slated to delve into Meta's ongoing plans for the metaverse, promising further insights into the company's immersive virtual world ambitions.
Artificial intelligence remains a central theme for Meta, mirroring the industry's broader trend. Expect significant announcements regarding AI features across Meta's applications and hardware. The recent transformation of the smart glasses' companion app into a standalone Meta AI application, allowing users to explore AI-generated content, highlights the company's push towards more sophisticated AI integration. Existing smart glasses are likely to receive AI-driven software enhancements, ensuring that both new and current devices benefit from Meta's advanced AI capabilities. This continued evolution of AI in Meta's products aims to deliver more intelligent and seamless user experiences.
