Meta's Smart Glasses Go on Sale in Israel
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
Meta's smart glasses, including Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta models, are now available in Israel starting at 1590 shekels. The devices feature cameras, audio, and AI, allowing for photo/video capture and calls. The launch expands Meta's collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, but privacy concerns persist regarding discreet recording capabilities.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Meta's smart glasses, Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta, launched in Israel on October 20.
- The glasses feature cameras, AI, and audio, with prices starting at 1590 shekels.
- New models offer 12MP cameras, 3K video, and up to nine hours of battery life.
- The launch is part of Meta's expanded partnership with EssilorLuxottica.
- Privacy concerns have been raised due to the glasses' discreet recording features.
Meta's "smart" glasses, the Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta models, officially went on sale in Israel on October 20. The glasses, which resemble regular eyewear, feature integrated cameras, audio systems, and artificial intelligence capabilities, with prices starting at 1590 shekels. Users can capture first-person photos and videos, listen to music through open-ear speakers, and take phone calls without needing their smartphone. Meta also offers real-time conversation translation and AI-powered question answering, though availability varies by region and language. Israel is receiving the third generation of Ray-Ban Meta glasses in Wayfarer, Aviator, and Zena frames. These new models boast a 12-megapixel camera, 3K video recording, up to nine hours of battery life, and a dedicated button for accessing the AI assistant. Some frames can accommodate prescription lenses. The Oakley Meta sports line includes the HSTN model with an eight-hour battery and the Vanguard model, featuring a central wide-angle camera, water and dust resistance, and integration with Garmin and Strava fitness apps. This launch in Israel signifies an expansion of Meta's partnership with eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica. However, the smart glasses have raised privacy concerns, as their discreet design allows for unnoticed recording of people in public or during private conversations. While a light indicator signals recording, it may not be readily visible to others. Recently, users reported instances of the glasses recording conversations without explicit commands and saving transcripts, a glitch Meta acknowledged and stated has been resolved.