Meta Connect 2025: Mark Zuckerberg Launches New Smart Eyewear and VR Entertainment Hub
At the opening event of Meta Connect 2025, CEO Mark Zuckerberg introduced a groundbreaking line of smart eyewear, highlighting the company’s first model equipped with augmented reality (AR) technology. This launch coincided with the unveiling of the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses, along with a sporty pair of Oakley-branded sunglasses tailored for athletes. Additionally, Zuckerberg presented Horizon TV, a new entertainment platform designed for Quest headsets, providing streamlined access to popular streaming services such as Disney+ and Prime Video within a virtual reality environment.
Ray-Ban Meta "Gen 2"
The newly released Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 glasses boast significant enhancements in battery life, now lasting up to eight hours under typical usage conditions. The updated charging case supports an impressive 48 hours of additional power, up from the previous 32 hours. Equipped with a 12-megapixel camera, this model captures videos at 3K Ultra HD resolution with up to 60 frames per second and supports HDR. Users will also benefit from 32GB of storage. Furthermore, Meta plans to roll out updates this fall that will introduce hyperlapse and slow-motion video features compatible with all its eyewear products.
The Gen 2 Ray-Ban Meta glasses retain the same frame styles as their predecessor—Wayfarer, Skyler, and Headliner—and are priced starting at $379.
Oakley Meta Vanguard
In contrast to its predecessor, the Oakley Meta Vanguard focuses on the needs of athletes. Featuring the brand’s renowned wraparound frame design, these smart glasses include reflective, swappable lenses available in various colors. To prevent obstructions from helmets or hats, Meta has strategically placed the 12-megapixel camera at the frame’s center. The camera incorporates a 122-degree angle lens and adjustable video stabilization, enabling smooth video capture even during movement.
Designed for resilience, the device benefits from a battery optimized for a broader temperature range, ensuring durability under challenging conditions. Enhanced audio capabilities include louder onboard speakers and integrations with fitness platforms Strava and Garmin. Oakley Meta Vanguard is available for preorder at $499 and will officially launch on October 21.
Meta Ray-Ban Display
Introducing the Meta Ray-Ban Display, the company’s inaugural AR glasses feature transparent heads-up displays (HUD) capable of showcasing text messages, AI prompts, turn-by-turn navigation, and video calls. This model works in conjunction with a dedicated EMG wristband, which allows users to interact with the HUD interface, including a typing feature for responses. Despite minor technical issues in an on-stage demonstration, Zuckerberg successfully showcased the ability to play music from Spotify, utilize real-time subtitles for accessibility, and capture images.
The Meta Ray-Ban Display will be available for $799 at select retail locations, including Best Buy, LensCrafters, Ray-Ban, and Verizon. Customers will need to be fitted for the wristband, with availability starting on September 30 in the U.S. and rolling out to Canada, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom in early 2024.
Meta Horizon TV
Wrapping up the keynote, Zuckerberg announced Horizon TV, an innovative entertainment hub for Quest headset users. This platform offers a comprehensive interface, integrating multiple streaming services, including Prime Video and Peacock. The CEO further confirmed the addition of Disney+ to the Quest ecosystem, broadening the entertainment options for users in virtual reality.
With these exciting developments, Meta continues to push the boundaries of augmented reality and virtual entertainment, solidifying its position at the forefront of technological innovation.
