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The Future of Wearables Is Here with Meta’s Athlete-Focused Smart Glasses
Meta is taking its venture into the smart glasses world to the next level, and this time, it’s partnering with Oakley to create a pair of AI-powered spectacles designed specifically for athletes. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming Oakley-branded smart glasses will be a fresh addition to Meta’s Reality Labs lineup, aiming to combine cutting-edge technology with Oakley’s iconic style.
What Makes These Glasses Special?
Unlike Meta’s previous collaboration with Ray-Ban, these new Oakley smart glasses will cater to athletes, particularly cyclists, runners, and rowers. The glasses will reportedly be modeled after Oakley’s popular Sphaera design, with a shift in the camera placement toward the center of the frame for optimal recording and functionality.
The design upgrade isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a nod to the practical needs of athletes who rely on precision and performance during their activities. With Oakley’s strong reputation among sports enthusiasts, Meta is banking on this partnership to bridge the gap between smart tech and sports gear.
NEW: Meta is planning Oakley Smart Glasses and a new high-end, ~$1000 model with a screen & wrist control this year. It’s also again weighing launching a smartwatch, is exploring an AirPods rival with cameras & is working on its first AR glasses for 2027 https://t.co/E06rkZDcMO
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) January 21, 2025
Aiming for Broader Appeal
By tapping into Oakley’s loyal following, Meta hopes to make smart glasses a staple for both athletes and everyday users. The brand’s goal is to transform these devices from niche gadgets into mainstream must-haves. With the success of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses already under its belt, this collaboration with Oakley could solidify Meta’s position as a leader in wearable tech.
What’s Next from Meta’s Reality Labs?
The Oakley smart glasses aren’t the only innovative product Meta has up its sleeve. Reports suggest the company is exploring several AI-powered devices, including:
- Camera-equipped earbuds for hands-free convenience
- A smartwatch to compete with existing market leaders
- Premium AR smart glasses priced at $1,000, featuring an augmented reality display projected onto the right lens
These upcoming products reflect Meta’s ambitious vision to create an interconnected ecosystem of AI-driven wearables that enhance both practicality and lifestyle.
Meta’s move into athlete-focused smart glasses isn’t just about expanding its product line—it’s a strategic effort to redefine how technology integrates into sports and fitness. By combining Oakley’s sportswear expertise with Meta’s tech prowess, the partnership could set a new standard for wearable innovation.
For athletes, these glasses might just be the next game-changing gadget, blending style, performance, and advanced technology into one sleek package.
