In what appears to be an unplanned glimpse at the future of wearable technology, a major leak has revealed that Meta is preparing to launch a new generation of smart glasses developed in collaboration with eyewear giants Ray-Ban and Oakley — this time featuring a built-in heads-up display (HUD).
A Clear Step Beyond Audio-Only
Unlike the earlier audio-focused models, which allowed users to take calls and capture photos discreetly, these new glasses appear to be equipped with a miniature projection system that overlays digital content directly into the wearer’s field of vision. According to internal presentation slides that surfaced online late Monday, the new glasses can display notifications, navigation cues, and real-time information from connected Meta Smart Glasses apps.
Insiders say the new design pushes Meta’s wearable strategy closer to the company’s broader mixed reality ambitions — blending fashion-forward frames from Ray-Ban and Oakley with cutting-edge microdisplay technology.
Gesture-Control Wristband Also Leaked
Alongside the glasses, the leak also revealed a wrist-worn controller device. This sleek band reportedly uses neural interface sensors to detect subtle finger movements, allowing users to navigate menus, click, or scroll through the glasses’ interface without touching them.
Tech analysts suggest this wristband could be Meta’s answer to interaction challenges that have plagued other AR wearables, providing a far more natural and discreet control method than voice commands or physical touchpads.
Hints Toward 2025 Launch Window
While Meta has not issued an official statement, several references in the leaked material point to a planned public unveiling at the upcoming Meta Connect conference later this year. If accurate, this would mark Meta’s most ambitious hardware launch since the debut of its Meta Quest VR lineup.
Industry watchers say Meta is under pressure to diversify beyond social media, and these smart glasses could serve as a crucial bridge between today’s wearables and future full-fledged AR headsets.
Privacy Concerns Loom Large
Not everyone is cheering. Privacy advocates have already raised concerns over the potential for discreet video recording, real-time facial recognition, and data collection via eye tracking — especially if these features are silently integrated. Meta’s earlier smart glasses faced similar scrutiny, prompting visible recording indicators and strict data-use disclosures.
It remains to be seen how Meta will address those concerns in this new iteration, particularly given growing regulatory oversight around wearable tech in the U.S. and Europe.
Launch Expectations
Industry insiders believe Meta could reveal these glasses officially at its upcoming Connect event later this year, with a potential release date in 2026. Pricing is still a mystery, but with two major fashion brands onboard, expect options ranging from premium lifestyle frames to performance-focused designs.
The Bottom Line
If the leak proves accurate, Meta Smart Glasses could soon shift from being a stylish audio companion to a full-fledged digital display device — merging fashion and function in a way that could redefine everyday eyewear.
With high-profile partners like Ray-Ban and Oakley on board, and a cutting-edge interface backed by neural wrist controls, this next-gen device could mark Meta’s boldest attempt yet to make augmented reality mainstream.
