Meta is preparing to ramp up mass production of its Hypernova AI glasses in Q3 2025, aiming to manufacture 150,000–200,000 units over the next two years. This launch is viewed more as a strategic, experimental rollout rather than a mass-market assault.
What to Expect: Design & Controls
- Display: A discreet monocular color micro-display will be embedded in the lower-right portion of the right lens. It offers a 20-degree field of view for lightweight tasks like notifications and navigation.
- Control Mechanism: A neural/EMG wristband, developed from CTRL-Labs tech, will read subtle muscle movements—from pinches to wrist rotations—enabling gesture-based control without intrusive sensors or cameras
Pricing Strategy & Distribution
Meta plans to price Hypernova at around $800, a notable reduction from earlier estimates of up to $1,400. This adjustment reflects a push toward early adoption by making the device more accessible.
Strategic Context
Meta views Hypernova as a foundational step in its broader strategy to transition from audio-only smart glasses to truly functional AR wearables:
- The device bridges current Ray-Ban Meta offerings and full-fledged AR headsets like Orion.
- It’s positioned to capture developer interest, build a UI/UX foundation, and accumulate real-world user data.
- While the global smart glasses market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, Hypernova’s shipments are conservatively estimated—highlighting its experimental nature.
Why This Matters
| Insight | Significance |
|---|---|
| First Display-enabled Model | Hypernova marks Meta’s shift to visual AR, a first from the company. |
| Strategic Timing | Q3 launch positions Meta ahead of Apple in the AR race. |
| Affordable AR Innovation | At $800, it’s a more accessible AR entry point than full MR devices like the Vision Pro. |
| Vision for the Future | This is a prototype for what’s next—a future where your glasses, not your phone, could be your primary computing interface. |
