Meta is rolling out its smart glasses lineup in Japan, launching the everyday Ray-Ban Meta second generation and the sports-focused Oakley Meta at the same time. Facebook Japan and EssilorLuxottica say sales start on May 21. The glasses support hands-free photo and video capture, Meta AI functions and open-ear audio, with translation features expanding from sign and menu translation at launch to live translation in 20 languages from June.

Smart glasses products are increasing quickly, but it remains unclear why users should wear them all day, a critique said. Recent models share similar designs and offer basic functions such as music, messages and navigation, but few distinctive use cases. AI features have fallen short in tests, while privacy worries persist for camera-equipped devices. Vision correction options and repairs also remain constraints. The assessment said value improves when purpose is clear.