Title: Hands-on with Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2): A Closer Look at the New Smart Glasses
Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses have been making waves since their debut in October 2023, with a significant presence in high-profile events like the Oscars and Paris Fashion Week. As a tech enthusiast who thoroughly enjoyed the first-gen Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses, I was thrilled to get an early glimpse of the new Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) smart glasses at Meta Connect 2025.
Meta has seamlessly incorporated the advancements from its recent Oakley glasses into the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2), offering users a more diverse range of frame options. One standout improvement is the introduction of new “steelcan” batteries, providing twice the battery life of the previous generation, now offering up to 5 hours of continuous audio playback or 8 hours of mixed use on a single charge.
Moreover, the enhanced 12MP camera in the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) now supports 3K video capture at 30fps, alongside exciting additions like slow motion and hyperlapse video capabilities. These features, accessible through the Meta AI app, elevate the smart glasses’ versatility and user experience.
In terms of audio enhancements, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) features a new wind-noise reduction algorithm for clearer calls and improved voice command recognition. Additionally, the Live Translation feature now supports German and Portuguese languages, catering to a wider user base.
One intriguing feature, Conversation Focus, aims to assist individuals with hearing difficulties by isolating and enhancing speech through the integrated speakers. This inclusive upgrade is set to be available for previous Meta Ray-Ban models and Oakley HSTNs via a forthcoming software update.
Style-conscious users will appreciate the variety offered by the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2), which comes in three main frame styles and a total of 27 frame/lens combinations. For those looking to make a statement, limited-run seasonal color options are also available at launch.
The Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) was released alongside Meta Connect 2025, priced at £379/$379/€419. Existing models will continue to be available at a lower price point for those who may not require the latest features. Overall, while the upgrades may not be revolutionary, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) shows promise in enhancing user experience with improved battery life, advanced camera capabilities, and a commitment to ongoing innovation.