My experience with wearable tech has evolved a lot over the past year or so. From testing out top-tier smartwatches like the Galaxy Watch Ultra (review) that got me hooked on fitness tracking to exploring the latest and greatest Vision Pro that took me to the edge of Mixed Reality, it has been a fulfilling journey. However, Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses have always been on my bucket list. And well, I can finally tick it off, folks!
As someone who has always been fascinated by wearable technology, finally getting my hands on these Smart Glasses feels like a significant milestone. I opted for the transparent Wayfarer design variant, which was recently unveiled at Meta Connect 2024. The anticipation was palpable, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.
Going in, I knew that these weren’t anything revolutionary like the Meta Orion prototype we saw at the event. Still, I understood that this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Little did I know, once I put them on, there would be no turning back!
Barely Takes Any Getting Used To
One of the standout features of the Ray-Ban smart glasses is how lightweight they are. Imagine trying to pack all that technology into a form factor so sleek! I wore them like regular spectacles, and just taking them out of the case felt satisfying.
Even after wearing them throughout the day, I didn't feel discomfort at any point. The new transition lenses are impressive as they smoothly shift from clear indoors to a violet tint outdoors, enhancing the overall experience.
Unexpectedly Good Sound and Call Quality!
These temple-tip speakers are surprisingly loud and deliver an impressive audio experience. I was genuinely taken aback by how well they handle mids, highs, and even bass. However, the open design does have its drawbacks; music can easily get lost amid the hustle and bustle of the city.
Indoors, the sound quality is exceptional. I found myself reaching for my earbuds less often! My colleagues, however, did point out that volume above 50% leads to audio leakage, which is something to consider.
When it comes to making calls, the microphone quality is top-notch. I tested it during peak traffic hours and everyone on the other end rated the call quality highly. I barely needed to raise my voice, and the clarity was remarkable!
Meta AI’s So Good That It Made Me Lazier
With the latest update, Meta has infused the Ray-Ban smart glasses with impressive AI capabilities. One of my favorite features is the ability to ask Meta AI what it sees. This may seem simple, but the utility is profound.
For instance, I asked Meta AI to translate a page from a Spanish book. It delivered an accurate translation in mere seconds! Even in less-than-ideal lighting, it managed to pick up all the text, proving its effectiveness.
Solid Set of Cameras
The camera quality is another area where the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses shine. Thanks to the 12MP ultra-wide camera on the right arm, both photos and videos come out crystal clear. Whether it’s day or night, the details are well-preserved and the colors appear natural.
I’ve captured stunning photos, including daytime shots and even some great low-light images. The stability of the video is also commendable, making it easy to get some great POV shots!
Wish It Had Lasted Forever
Despite all the positives, there is one drawback: the battery life. After a full charge in the morning, I found myself needing a recharge by mid-afternoon. With heavy use—listening to music, taking calls, and utilizing Meta AI—the battery lasted around 6.5 hours. For light usage, I managed to stretch it to about 4:42 PM.
For long trips, frequent recharging is essential. Thankfully, it charges quickly, going from 0 to 100% in about 45 to 50 minutes, and the case can recharge them about seven times, which is fantastic!
The Most Meta Pair of AI Glasses
While the Apple Vision Pro showcased what the future might look like, the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses provided a real taste of convenience in daily life. Priced at $329 (with the transparent variant costing $429), they are not just a travel vlogger's dream but also an excellent option for everyday users.
From summoning your personal assistant to translating text on the go, these glasses are a blend of fun and functionality. Plus, I felt stylish while using them, which is an added bonus!
In conclusion, the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have exceeded my expectations in numerous ways. I encourage you to explore them for yourself and see what they can do. What are your thoughts on this innovative piece of tech? Let me know in the comments below!
