Meta has officially opened preorders for its new Oakley smart glasses, the limited edition HSTN, ahead of their anticipated release on July 22, 2023. These glasses are priced at $499 in the United States, £499 in the UK, and AU$789 in Australia. However, only the premium model is available for preorder at this time, with additional, more affordable designs set to launch later this summer.
The Oakley Meta HSTN smart glasses feature a striking white frame and are equipped with PRIZM 24K polarized lenses, designed to enhance visibility during sports activities in bright conditions. Beyond standard eyewear functionality, these glasses incorporate advanced technology including a built-in camera capable of capturing 3K video, superior to what is offered by the Ray-Ban smart glasses. Users can also enjoy open ear speakers for audio playback and interactive capabilities with the Meta AI companion, supported by integrated microphones.
The battery life of the Oakley HSTN is notable as well, lasting up to 8 hours on a single charge. When combined with a charging case, users can extend their usage by an additional 48 hours.
While the initial offerings focus on the limited edition model, Meta plans to release six additional designs later this summer. These future models are expected to start at a lower price point of $399, with options including:
– Oakley Meta HSTN Desert with PRIZM Ruby Lenses
– Oakley Meta HSTN Black with PRIZM Polar Black Lenses
– Oakley Meta HSTN Shiny Brown with PRIZM Polar Deep-Water Lenses
– Oakley Meta HSTN Black with Transitions Amethyst Lenses
– Oakley Meta HSTN Clear with Transitions Grey Lenses
Despite the introduction of a more affordable range, the upcoming Oakley models will still be positioned above the base price of Ray-Ban smart glasses, which start at $299. The anticipated pricing for premium lenses on the Oakley models is likely to mirror that of Ray-Ban, with additional costs for features such as polarized and transition lenses.
For athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, the Oakley smart glasses may represent a valuable upgrade, particularly with the sport-specific PRIZM lens technology. However, consumers interested in cutting-edge smart glasses technology might consider waiting for the upcoming Meta Connect event in September, where new models featuring integrated screens are expected to be unveiled.
Mark Zuckerberg has confirmed that new Ray-Ban smart glasses are also on the horizon, indicating a competitive landscape in the smart eyewear market. As innovations unfold, consumers will have options that blend performance with advanced technological features, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.
