Ray-Ban Meta Glasses are my preferred AI device, and they continue to improve.

      Meta introduced its Ray-Ban AI Glasses in October 2023, and although a successor has yet to be released, the company has consistently enhanced their features, making them my top AI gadget. These are all improvements aimed at daily use that ideally would accompany the next-generation model. However, Meta has announced the Ray-Ban Meta Glasses will be available in more regions, along with new Meta AI features launching this week.

      I purchased a pair of Headliner Meta Ray-Bans in January 2024, and they have been my go-to travel accessory ever since. It's not just about the ability to record videos on the move; rather, these are the first AI device that doesn’t overtly advertise its technology. Their subtle integration is what sets them apart, and they continue to evolve positively, even 18 months after their initial release.

      Reasons they’re my favorite AI product

      Prakhar Khanna / Digital Trends

      When I first acquired the Meta Ray-Bans, their functionality was somewhat limited. I can only appreciate the improvements in hindsight, as they have significantly advanced since then. At the time of purchase, my Ray-Ban Meta Glasses could play music, handle phone calls, assist with hands-free navigation, and record videos.

      A year later, I can ask Meta AI to identify famous landmarks while I walk through Amsterdam or video call my girlfriend on WhatsApp to show her the Eiffel Tower from my vantage point. From using them on the Harry Potter roller coaster at Universal Studios to capturing quick videos at Mobile World Congress, the Meta Ray-Bans have consistently provided high-quality content. The 12MP camera performs impressively well in daylight.

      While the open-ear design naturally allows some sound leakage at higher volumes, listening to my favorite music at a theme park feels immersive, akin to being in a movie, thanks to their audio quality without blocking surrounding sounds. They achieve all this while making me look stylish, rather than causing me to appear strange for wearing an extra accessory in public.

      One of the standout features of Ray-Ban Meta Glasses is their ability to be fashionable without sacrificing technology. Many AI glasses prioritize features over design, but these are an exception. I appreciate that Meta hasn’t overlooked the design aspect in creating their AI glasses; it’s my favorite feature of the device.

      Ray-Ban Meta glasses charging case Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      From the product itself to its charging case, every detail is thoughtfully crafted for lifestyle use rather than just as a tech gadget. This is one of the reasons they’ve been my constant travel companion for over a year; I don’t have to carry an extra cable or charging puck to keep them operational. This is particularly relevant now, as battery life decreases when recording videos longer than 60 seconds (they can now record for up to three minutes, an upgrade from the original one-minute limit).

      I can conveniently place my sunglasses in their case to recharge the battery. The charging case is designed to look like any other Ray-Ban case, with a Type-C port for charging, making it lightweight and portable. More wearable devices should adopt better charging solutions.

      Meta Ray-Bans are set to receive new features this week

      Prakhar Khanna / Digital Trends

      Meta recently revealed several new features, additional summer style frames, and an expansion of availability for the Ray-Ban Meta Glasses.

      Now, you can live translate without needing an internet connection, as long as you’ve preloaded the necessary language pack (French, Italian, or Spanish). This is a vital update for travelers worldwide. The live translation feature enables conversations with locals in foreign countries, as well as listening to movies, lectures, instructions, and more in one of the supported languages, with translations delivered through the glasses.

      Meta AI is also being introduced in Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. You can ask Meta’s smart assistant questions about things you can see through the glasses, similar to my experience in Amsterdam.

      Earlier this March, while in London, I was excited to see cherry blossoms in one of the parks, as they were on my bucket list. I asked Meta AI if they were cherry blossoms, and it accurately identified them without needing to use my phone. You can ask follow-up questions without needing to activate the "Hey Meta" wake word each time.

      The Ray-Ban Meta Glasses allow for calls and messaging via WhatsApp and Messenger, with an Instagram-compatible update expected soon. Additionally, Meta is expanding support for more music services beyond the US and Canada. Soon, you’ll be able to play or identify music via Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Shazam.

      The $299 smart glasses will soon be available in India, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates, although Meta has yet to provide more details on pricing and availability.

      4 features I want in the next Ray-Ban Meta Glasses

      Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      I’m pleased that Meta is not holding back features