Meta accidentally published, then removed, a video revealing next-generation smart glasses. The devices include a Ray-Ban Display model with a built-in heads-up display (HUD) over the right eye, and Oakley’s “Sphaera” glasses with a center camera.
The leak also shows a wristband (EMG or sEMG) used for gesture controls—pinching, tapping, swiping—to interact with the glasses. Features demonstrated include displaying maps, text overlays, live translation, messaging, and Meta AI commands.
What We Know So Far
| Aspect | Details from the Leaks |
|---|---|
| Design | Ray-Ban Display model retains Ray-Ban style but with thicker temples to house the display. Oakley Sphaera is wraparound with center camera. |
| Display Type | Monocular HUD in the right lens; fixed display rather than full dual-lens AR. |
| Controls | sEMG wristband for gestures; likely supplement or alternative to touch or voice input. |
| Price | Rumored to start around US$800 for the Ray-Ban Display model. |
| Branding & Partnerships | Ray-Ban Display part of the Meta-EssilorLuxottica collaboration. Oakley Sphaera under Oakley brand. |
| Timeline | The official reveal is expected at Meta Connect 2025, which is happening September 17, 2025. |
Why This Leak Matters
- Shift from Audio-Only to Visual AR
Until now, Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses were mostly for audio, cameras, and voice or touch features. Adding a display over an eye is a big step toward usable augmented reality without needing full headsets. - New Interaction Models
The use of a gesture/wristband controller suggests Meta is trying to avoid bulky controls or constant voice input, which have been pain points in earlier smart glasses and AR prototypes. - Brand & Market Positioning
Ray-Ban and Oakley are strong fashion/eyewear brands. Branding the display-glasses under them might help acceptance among consumers who want both style and tech. - Price Accessibility
At ~$800, with display + wristband, it’s still premium, but more accessible than full AR headsets. It could help bridge the gap for mainstream smartglasses adoption.
Concerns & Unknowns
- Battery life: Displays and always-on features drain more power. Will the thicker frames accommodate larger batteries, or will usage time suffer?
- Field of view & usability: Since it’s a monocular display over one eye, how comfortable and useful will it be in motion, or for long durations?
- Privacy & safety: Cameras, displays, gesture tracking raise concerns about recording, data collection, and how much awareness people around the wearer have.
- Durability, weight & comfort: Thicker frame, extra hardware (wristband) could affect comfort, especially for everyday wear.
- Regulatory & content issues: Use of HUD in public spaces, content shown, safety while walking/driving etc.
What to Expect at Meta Connect 2025
- Likely official unveiling of Ray-Ban Display and Oakley Sphaera models.
- Demos of display use: navigation, messaging, AI overlay features.
- Details on software (OS, apps), battery metrics, weight, field of view.
- Pricing, variants, and rollout schedule.
Bottom Line
The leak of Meta’s display-equipped smart glasses indicates the company is close to launching products that blur the line between traditional eyewear and augmented reality. With fashion brands onboard, gesture wristbands for input, and a price point that might be somewhat reachable for enthusiasts, these could be among the first wearable displays that gain wider adoption. However, success will depend on how well Meta balances features, usability, battery, comfort, and privacy.
