Meta Expands Smart Glasses Lineup with Oakley and Prada
Following the triumph of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, Meta is reportedly set to broaden its wearable technology portfolio by introducing new AI-powered spectacles under the Oakley and Prada brands. This strategic expansion, stemming from an extended collaboration with eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica, signals Meta’s deepening commitment to the smart glasses market and its broader push into artificial intelligence. The move aims to capture diverse consumer segments, from performance-focused athletes to high-fashion enthusiasts, leveraging the established brand recognition of Oakley and Prada.
The upcoming Oakley Meta smart glasses, expected to debut as early as June 20, are specifically designed for active lifestyles. Priced at a slightly higher entry point of $360 compared to the $299 Ray-Ban Metas, these durable, weather-resistant glasses will reportedly feature a centrally located camera, ideal for recording dynamic footage during sports like cycling. Like their Ray-Ban predecessors, they’ll offer integrated AI capabilities for voice-activated commands, enabling users to capture photos and videos, manage calls and texts, livestream content, and stream music. Meta has already begun teasing the Oakley collaboration on social media, building anticipation for the official unveiling.
Meanwhile, Meta is also venturing into the luxury fashion segment with Prada. Although no official announcement or release timeline has been provided, former Meta employees suggest Prada’s distinctive eyewear designs, particularly their thicker temples, are well-suited to house the necessary internal technology for smart features. This partnership with a renowned fashion house like Prada could provide Meta with a significant foothold in the high-end market, further diversifying its reach beyond the mass appeal of Ray-Ban.
This aggressive expansion in the smart glasses arena coincides with Meta’s substantial investments in artificial intelligence. The company’s recent commitment of $14.3 billion to acquire a 49% stake in AI data labeling startup Scale AI underscores its long-term vision for AI integration across its product ecosystem. With millions of Ray-Ban Meta glasses already sold and a projected production of 10 million units by the end of next year, Meta’s strategy appears to be a multi-pronged approach, weaving advanced AI functionalities into stylish and accessible wearables for a wider audience.
