Meta Unveils Camera-Free Ray-Ban Audio Glasses Starting at $349

Industry Pulse News Desk · 2026-09-23

Meta introduces camera-free Ray-Ban Audio smart glasses with AI features and lighter frames, scheduled to ship on Oct. 13 for $349.

Meta has introduced a camera-free version of its Ray-Ban smart glasses, shifting the device's primary focus to audio capabilities and artificial intelligence tools. The new Ray-Ban Meta Audio line will be available in two distinct frame styles, the Burbank and the Clubmaster, with pricing starting at $349. Shipments are scheduled to begin Oct. 13.

The updated design removes front-facing camera lenses entirely, giving the eyewear the appearance of standard Ray-Ban frames. By eliminating the camera hardware and modules, the total weight of the device has dropped to 43 grams, down from the 51 grams of the second-generation camera-equipped Wayfarer model.

The audio-only models retain Meta's voice-activated artificial intelligence features. Wearers can interact with the company's AI agent for real-time inquiries, receive location recommendations, place hands-free phone calls, and process text messages via built-in open-ear speakers. The speaker configuration allows users to stream audio while maintaining awareness of surrounding ambient sounds.

The product shift comes following ongoing privacy debates surrounding camera-equipped wearables. Previous smart glass models capable of capturing photo and video prompted bans across various venues, including security conferences, retail locations, and private establishments concerned with unannounced recording in public spaces.

Meta's expanded hardware lineup offers an alternative for consumers seeking smart wearable features without imaging capabilities, providing a broader market entry for voice-assisted eyewear.