Meta Unveils New Smart Glasses Designed for Prescription Use

Meta has unveiled two new styles of AI glasses designed specifically for those with imperfect vision. Named the Ray-Ban Meta Optics Styles, these frames come in a rectangular “Blayzer” style and a circular “Scriber” version. Unlike standard Ray-Bans, these models feature overextension hinges, interchangeable nose pads, and adjustable temple tips, allowing for a more personalized fit. While the overextension hinges were first seen in the Meta Ray-Ban Display, they were not included in the regular Ray-Ban collection. The frames will be available in a range of colors, including matte and transparent black, dark olive, ice gray, and stone beige, with a dark brown carrying case. These “prescription optimized” glasses will launch on April 14th for $499 and are currently available for preorder.

According to Meta, these glasses “support nearly all prescriptions.” Previously, Ray-Ban glasses could only accommodate prescriptions of ±6 (and ±4 for the Display models), which, while decent for smart glasses, didn’t cover a wide range. Meta spokesperson Albert Aydin clarified that the prescription range for the Blayzer and Scriber is unrestricted, but customers should verify any range limitations with their retailer. If ordering directly from Meta’s site, the ±6 range still applies, and prescriptions outside this range will require a visit to an optician or a LensCrafters-type store.

Meta has faced criticism regarding its smart glasses, particularly concerning privacy issues, a proposed facial recognition feature, and misuse by some individuals. This launch also underscores a significant challenge for the broader acceptance of AI glasses: the need for vision correction and proper fit. For many users, smart glasses must serve as medical devices, not just tech gadgets, and manufacturers have struggled to cater to various vision needs and face shapes.

In addition to the new frames, Meta announced upcoming software features for the Ray-Bans. This summer, they will introduce AI-powered nutrition logging, allowing users to log meals by taking a photo and using a voice prompt, with plans for future automatic logging. The company is also adding hands-free WhatsApp summaries to its Early Access program, with these summaries processed on-device and secured with end-to-end encryption.

For Display users, two new games are now available: 2048 and a platformer called GOAT, both utilizing the Neural Band. The Neural handwriting feature will also expand in the coming weeks, adding iMessage support, while turn-by-turn navigation will begin supporting every US city in May.

Correction, March 31st: A previous version of this article stated that the Display supported ±2 prescriptions. The correct range is ±4.