Meta and Oakley's collaborative smart glasses will launch on June 20th, designed specifically for athletes and cycling enthusiasts.
Meta-Oakley: Meta and sports eyewear brand Oakley have partnered to pioneer a new technological advancement. On June 20th, both companies will unveil the next generation of smart glasses. This collaboration represents more than a new product; it's a bold innovation merging sports technology with a seamless digital interface. The design specifically caters to professionals and fitness enthusiasts involved in cycling, running, and other athletic activities.
Meta and Oakley's New Partnership: What's Special?
Meta has already successfully launched two smart glasses in collaboration with Ray-Ban—Ray-Ban Stories in 2021 and Ray-Ban Meta Glasses in 2023. However, this Oakley partnership signals Meta's ambition to expand beyond fashion or social media experiences and establish a foothold in sports technology.
Oakley, a long-time manufacturer of performance eyewear for professional athletes, will now integrate Meta's technology to offer smart glasses potentially featuring AI, camera capabilities, AR features, and fitness tracking.
Supernova 2: The Name of the Next-Generation Smart Glasses?
Sources suggest the new smart glasses have the codename 'Supernova 2.' This name itself indicates a significant leap forward in Meta's smart glasses technology. It's anticipated that the device will be based on the design of the Oakley Sphaera, a multi-sport use sunglass.
Oakley Sphaera is already known for its lightweight design, high coverage, and sports-friendly build. If Supernova 2 incorporates this base design with smart features, it could become an excellent device for professional use.
Camera Placement Change: Centered Camera
While Ray-Ban Meta Glasses featured a camera on the left frame, the Oakley Meta Glasses are rumored to have a centrally located camera. This will ensure captured video footage and photos are a true point-of-view (PoV), ideal for recording gameplay, cycling footage, or live fitness training. This change will enrich the user experience and offer content creators a novel perspective.
Why These Smart Glasses Will Be Special?
These smart glasses will differ slightly from traditional AR glasses. Designed with sports and fitness in mind, they will potentially include:
- AI-assisted fitness tracking
- AR display providing real-time information such as heart rate, distance, and time
- Built-in speakers and microphones for music, calls, and voice assistant access
- Hands-free video recording and live streaming support
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Deep integration with Meta apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook Reels
Design and Launch Information
Meta hinted at this partnership by creating a new Instagram handle: @OakleyMeta. While renders or full specifications haven't been publicly released yet, a full unveiling of features and form factor is expected on June 20th.
The combined branding of Meta and Oakley suggests these smart glasses will be both functional and fashionable. If the product lives up to expectations, it could redefine the smart eyewear segment.
Potential Price and Availability
While pricing hasn't been disclosed, considering the price points of Meta's previous smart glasses, the starting price of Oakley Meta Glasses could range between ₹30,000 and ₹40,000.
A global launch is anticipated, with availability in India possibly starting a few weeks later. Pre-orders or sales may begin on Meta and Oakley's websites, and potentially on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
