Meta drops camera on new $350 Ray-Ban Audio glasses

Meta has released an audio-focused version of its smart eyewear, the Ray-Ban Meta Audio glasses. Priced starting at $350, the device removes the camera entirely, offering a lightweight wearable in Clubmaster and Burbank styles that weighs between 43 and 47 grams. By eliminating the camera, the frames feature thinner temple arms, enhanced comfort, and support for prescription lenses ranging from -12 to +6.

The device operates using Meta's Muse Spark AI model, a lighter system that handles simple voice queries such as setting reminders, scheduling calendar events, and offering turn-by-turn walking directions. While Meta plans to bring its more powerful Muse AI model to the glasses later in 2026, the current Muse Spark configuration struggles with complex requests. To trigger the AI assistant, users can say "Hey Meta" or press a customizable action button located on the right-hand temple arm.

Compared to standard Meta Glasses that now start at $250 and retain video recording tools, the $350 Audio variant prioritizes everyday audio consumption and privacy. The open-ear speakers offer decent sound quality with modest bass distortion at high volumes, along with a battery life that lasts up to two full workdays. Specialized accessibility options, including FDA-cleared hearing assistance, are not yet available, leaving low-vision and hard-of-hearing users reliant on camera-equipped alternatives or the live-captioning Meta Ray-Ban Display.

For privacy-conscious consumers, removing the lens eliminates filming concerns in public spaces, echoing earlier wearables like the Bose Frames. However, Meta still uses voice data for AI training unless opted out in the device settings. While the $100 price markup over standard camera models may limit its appeal, the stripped-down hardware provides a less intrusive option for users seeking voice AI and personal audio without public recording capability.