The much-anticipated Oakley Meta smart glasses are available for preorder as of now, ahead of their official launch on July 22. However, customers should note that only the limited edition model, the HSTN, is currently available, while other designs are scheduled to be released later this summer.
The Limited Edition Oakley Meta HSTN is priced at $499 in the United States, £499 in the United Kingdom, and AUD 789 in Australia. These glasses feature a distinctive white frame and PRIZM 24K polarized lenses, which are designed to enhance visibility during sports activities in bright conditions.
In addition to serving as conventional eyewear, the smart glasses include advanced features such as a built-in camera capable of capturing 3K video, superior to that of the Meta Ray-Ban models. They are equipped with open-ear speakers to stream music and relay information from the Meta AI companion, alongside microphones that allow for voice interaction. The battery life extends up to 8 hours with regular use, which is another improvement over the Ray-Ban version.
With the included charging case, users can extend the glasses’ operational time by an additional 48 hours. While the initial offering may excite some, potential buyers might also consider waiting for the forthcoming models that promise a lower entry price.
Later this summer, six additional designs of the Oakley smart glasses will be released, each featuring various lens options. These include:
– 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
The upcoming models are expected to start at a more affordable $399, £399, or AUD 629. Despite this reduction, the cost remains higher than the base model of Ray-Ban smart glasses, which retails at $299, £299, or AUD 449.
While the enhanced features of the Oakley smart glasses may appeal to athletes, those seeking the latest technology in smart eyewear might prefer to wait for new announcements from Meta during the upcoming Meta Connect event in September. This event is anticipated to unveil smart glasses with a display, potentially offering a next-generation experience. As Meta continues to innovate, early adopters may find themselves contemplating whether to invest in both the Oakley models and the newer offerings from Meta.
In a competitive landscape, the collaboration between Meta and Oakley highlights ongoing advancements in wearable technology, with both companies aiming to cater to a diverse market of consumers. With Mark Zuckerberg confirming plans for new Ray-Ban smart glasses later this year, the smart eyewear sector is poised for significant developments in the coming months.
