Meta's AI-Powered Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Expand to Europe: A New Era of Wearable Intelligence
Meta has officially expanded its AI-powered smart glasses, developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban, to Europe, bringing a host of futuristic features to users across the continent. After the initial launch in the U.S., these smart glasses are now being equipped with Meta's in-house AI assistant, offering advanced capabilities such as real-time object recognition, voice-controlled features, language translation, and more.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest updates:
Expansion to Europe
Meta announced that the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are now available in European markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, with full AI functionality being gradually rolled out through software updates.
This expansion marks Meta’s ambition to make wearable AI assistants mainstream—placing them right on your face.
AI Features Now Enabled on Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Meta AI, integrated directly into the glasses, provides several intelligent features that enhance day-to-day convenience, including:
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Vision-Based AI (Multimodal AI)
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The glasses can "see" what you’re looking at and provide relevant information using the onboard camera.
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For example, users can ask, “What kind of building is that?” or “Can you identify this landmark?”—and Meta AI will respond contextually.
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Hands-Free Image Capture and Sharing
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Users can take photos or videos by saying "Hey Meta, take a photo," or "Record a video," without touching their phone.
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Live Language Translation
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Meta AI supports real-time translation of signs, menus, or spoken language, viewed or heard through the glasses. It currently supports several languages including English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German.
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Daily Assistance
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Ask Meta AI for weather updates, reminders, directions, or the time, just like you would with a smartphone assistant—but all while staying mobile and hands-free.
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Smart Recommendations and Notifications
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Receive proactive suggestions, such as nearby cafes, events, or transit options based on your surroundings and preferences.
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Audio and Music Control
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Built-in open-ear speakers let you enjoy music or take calls while staying aware of your environment. You can also use voice to change songs or adjust volume.
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Technical Specs and Design
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Built-in Cameras: 12MP for photo and 1080p video recording
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Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of use
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and seamless Meta app integration
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Voice Wake Word: "Hey Meta"
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Styles: Available in Wayfarer, Headliner, and other customizable Ray-Ban frames
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Charging Case: Sleek and portable with up to 36 hours of total use
Meta’s Vision: Ambient, Wearable AI
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg describes these glasses as a step toward “ambient computing,” where intelligent assistance is seamlessly embedded into the real world. Unlike traditional smart devices, Ray-Ban Smart Glasses aim to augment reality without overwhelming it, giving users a minimalist but powerful tool for staying informed and connected.
Privacy and Safety
With cameras and microphones built into eyewear, Meta emphasizes its commitment to privacy:
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A white LED indicator lights up when photos or videos are being recorded.
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All AI interactions are processed with user consent.
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Users have full control over data through the Meta View app.
Availability and Pricing
The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are now available in Europe starting at approximately €329, depending on frame and lens customization. Prescription lenses are also supported. The AI software features will continue rolling out via OTA (over-the-air) updates throughout 2025.
Future Outlook
As AI gets smarter and more embedded into daily devices, Meta is laying the groundwork for a future where digital assistance is always present, but never intrusive. With AI-powered smart glasses, Meta is no longer just competing in the social media arena—it’s positioning itself at the forefront of the wearable AI revolution.