New Meta smart glasses are probably launching soon
Meta appears to be getting ready to launch multiple new AI glasses models in the coming months. The company’s plans were revealed by newly published FCC filings, which usually mean a release is imminent.
Meta’s FCC filing. | Image by Lowpass
According to the documents, which were first reported by Lowpass, Meta is preparing to launch four new models. They are going with model names G4QM, G4QR, G4QB, and G4QS. Unfortunately, no further details are revealed from the heavily redacted documents.
Is this the end of the Ray-Ban Meta?
Meta could still be making a new Display model. | Image by Meta
A big revelation is coming from the mere fact that Meta has done the FCC filings. Until now, all but one of the FCC applications for the joint smart glasses models were filed by EssilorLuxottica. The sole exception was the Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses.That could mean several things, including the launch of another display model. However, it could also suggest a line of glasses that only bear Meta’s brand or even a new hardware partner.
Growing competition
Meta may have the advantage of being early in this market, but that could be quickly overshadowed by its competitors. Samsung and Google are finally launching their Android XR glasses later this fall, and they’ll likely sell them as the perfect accessory for hardware people already own.
Apple is rumored to start selling its own smart glasses by the beginning of next year, which would put even more pressure on Meta. In that context, leaving the Ray-Ban brand behind doesn’t sound like the best idea.
Design is important
Choosing smart glasses feels even more of a big deal than choosing your smartphone. Personally, I feel having Meta’s AI on my face is an enormous tradeoff, but the Ray-Ban design makes it worth it. If that gets lost, I can’t imagine many people flocking to get their Facebook- or Instagram-powered glasses anytime soon.
