Meta Launches Camera-Free AI Glasses Amid Privacy Backlash
AI-generated image · US National Wire
The new Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses strip out the camera to combat 'pervert glasses' reputation, though Meta maintains the move was a long-term design choice.
At the Connect 2026 conference, Meta unveiled the Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses, a new line of smart eyewear that completely removes the camera. According to TechCrunch, the camera-free design is intended to address criticism regarding the malicious use of AI glasses to record people without consent—a trend that led some to nickname the devices “pervert glasses.”
While TechCrunch reports the move helps Meta recover from reputational damage, Meta executives frame the decision as a strategic evolution. Alex Himel, Meta’s vice president of wearables, told The Verge that audio was identified as the top use case for AI two years ago. Himel noted that removing the camera allowed Meta to “rearchitect” the frames for more design flexibility.
Designed with partner EssilorLuxottica, the audio-only glasses start at $349 and weigh 43 grams. They feature two styles—the Clubmaster and the Burbank—with 23 color and lens combinations. Users can interact with Meta’s AI assistant, Muse, take calls, and listen to media. Without a power-hungry camera, Meta claims the battery lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge, or up to 48 hours with the charging case, per TechCrunch.
Meta is simultaneously continuing its camera-equipped line with the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3. These models, which include the Aviator, Zena, and Wayfarer styles, feature a 12 MP camera and start at $449. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated during a keynote that the company realized it could build an entire category around audio glasses.