Meta is preparing to launch new versions of its smart glasses in partnership with Oakley and Prada, as it accelerates efforts to bring artificial intelligence to fashion-forward and performance-driven eyewear.
The move comes after the unexpected commercial success of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, with two million units sold since their second-generation release in late 2023.
Aimed at athletes and outdoor users, the upcoming Oakley-branded smart glasses are being developed in collaboration with longtime partner EssilorLuxottica.
According to a document reviewed by CNBC, the design will prioritise performance, including improved weather resistance and a repositioned camera placed at the centre of the frame — a shift from the side-mounted design of the Ray-Bans.
This change is meant to enhance recording for users engaged in physical activities such as cycling and skiing.
Meta teased the new Oakley collaboration on Instagram earlier this week, with a cryptic post that reads:
“The next evolution is coming on June 20.”
The glasses are expected to be priced around $360, slightly higher than the Ray-Ban version, which starts at $299.
While Oakley appeals to the sport-focused crowd, Prada brings high-fashion appeal.
Meta is entering uncharted territory with the Prada partnership, marking its first venture into smart glasses with a fashion brand not owned by EssilorLuxottica, although Prada and Luxottica recently renewed a 10-year eyewear licensing deal.
The timeline for the Prada launch remains unannounced.
According to former Meta employees, Prada’s eyewear designs — particularly those with thicker arms — are ideal for housing smart technology, including chips, microphones and voice assistant hardware.
Internally referred to as the “Supernova” line, Meta’s smart glasses are poised to evolve in multiple directions.
A third generation is expected to debut later this year in time for the holiday season, featuring a built-in display in the lower corner of the right lens.
Known as “Hypernova,” this model will project contextual data into the wearer’s field of view and support basic apps, photo previews, and notifications — a notable step toward real augmented reality.
This premium version could be priced around $1,000.
Meta is also experimenting with a wrist-based controller named “Ceres,” which may ship alongside the glasses, offering users an alternative input method to the touch-sensitive temple controls.
Beyond eyewear, Meta is actively exploring other AI-integrated wearables, including smartwatches and camera-equipped earbuds — internally called “Camera Buds.”
These earbuds would allow users to identify and interact with real-world objects via AI, though technical challenges such as camera positioning and hair obstruction are still being addressed.
Meanwhile, Meta continues to work on its full AR ambitions.
The internal Orion prototype, which uses an external computing puck, is planned for developer use in 2026.
Its sleeker successor, Artemis, is expected to be the first true consumer-grade AR device, potentially launching as early as 2027.
While still in development, Artemis has already been described by insiders as more lightweight and advanced than its predecessor.
Meta’s ambitions are being closely matched by rivals.
Alphabet recently announced a $150 million partnership with Warby Parker to develop AI-integrated glasses, with a release expected post-2025.
Snap is working on its sixth-generation smart glasses under a new brand, Specs, with a 2026 launch planned.
Apple and Samsung are also exploring camera-equipped earbuds.
Behind the product launches and design upgrades is a much bigger race: control over how humans interact with technology in the next decade.
Smart glasses — whether athletic, luxury, or display-equipped — are emerging not just as accessories, but as gateways to a future where AI is always within view, always listening, and increasingly part of our physical world.
Meta’s approach of merging fashion and functionality might just be what makes smart wearables feel less like gadgets — and more like second nature.
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