Meta to launch new smart glasses with display next month

Meta's New Smart Glasses: A Glimpse into the Future of Wearable Tech

Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook and Instagram, is set to introduce its first consumer-ready smart glasses. This innovative product, known internally as Hypernova, is expected to revolutionize how users interact with digital content through augmented reality (AR) technology. The glasses are scheduled to be unveiled at the company’s annual Connect conference, an event dedicated to virtual reality, augmented reality, and the metaverse.

The Hypernova glasses will feature a small digital display embedded in the right lens. This display is designed to offer a 20-degree field of view, primarily for receiving notifications such as incoming text messages. While the display may seem modest, it represents a significant step forward in integrating AR into everyday life.

In addition to the glasses, users will receive a wristband that pairs with the device. This wristband utilizes sEMG sensor technology, which detects and interprets electrical signals from hand movements. This allows for intuitive control of the glasses through hand gestures, enhancing the user experience and making interactions more seamless.

The glasses are expected to retail for around $800 each. They will be sold under a partnership between Meta and EssilorLuxottica, a leading eyewear company. Although the specific brand name has not been confirmed, there have been reports suggesting that Prada-branded smart glasses could be part of this collaboration. Prada’s signature thick frames and arms might provide a suitable design for the Hypernova model, blending fashion with functionality.

According to a letter dated July 23 from the Customs and Border Patrol to a lawyer representing Meta, the Hypernova model will enable users to take and share photos and videos, make phone calls and video calls, send and receive messages, listen to audio playback, and interact with an AI assistant through various methods, including voice, display, and manual interactions.

This letter is part of routine communication when determining the country of origin for a consumer product. A source confirmed to CNBC that this letter was indeed in reference to Hypernova. The details provided in the letter highlight the potential capabilities of the device and its intended use cases.

As Meta continues to expand its presence in the AR and metaverse space, the release of Hypernova marks a pivotal moment for the company. With its focus on innovation and user experience, Meta is positioning itself as a leader in the future of wearable technology.

The development of Hypernova also underscores the growing importance of partnerships in the tech industry. By collaborating with EssilorLuxottica, Meta is leveraging the expertise of a well-established eyewear company to bring its vision to life. This strategic alliance could pave the way for other collaborations in the future, further expanding the possibilities of AR technology.

In addition to the Hypernova project, Meta has been actively involved in other initiatives, such as its partnership with Midjourney to license AI image and video models. These efforts reflect the company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with technology.

As the tech landscape continues to evolve, Meta's latest venture into smart glasses is a clear indication of the company's ambition to shape the future of digital interaction. With its focus on innovation, user-centric design, and strategic partnerships, Meta is well-positioned to lead the next wave of technological advancements.