Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) smart glasses fuse iconic eyewear design with practical, hands-free capture and a conversational assistant. They look and feel like everyday frames, yet produce crisp, wide-angle photos and higher-resolution video than the previous generation, while open-ear audio stays discreet enough for commutes, cafés and office use.
Key Points at a Glance
Strengths
- Conversational assistant is genuinely useful for capture and quick controls.
- Lightweight frames are comfortable for multi-hour wear.
- 3K video brings a welcome step-up in sharpness over the last model.
- Seasonal colourways add style without shouting “gadget”.
Trade-offs
- Camera-glasses etiquette varies; some situations still invite attention.
- Assistant latency depends on connection and the task being asked.
Design & Comfort
Generation 2 keeps the classic Ray-Ban silhouette while trimming weight, making extended wear feel natural. The finishes range from understated to expressive seasonal shades, so the aesthetic reads fashion-first. Hardware blends into the frame, keeping the tech discreet until needed.
Camera & Capture Experience
A subtle camera in the rim captures 12MP stills and up to 3-minute videos at 3K/30. Colour is pleasingly natural and the slightly wider field of view is handy for travel, events and POV demos. Voice commands (“Hey Meta, take a photo”) or the physical shutter make hands-free capture immediate.
A recording light indicates activity: a brief flash for photos and a pulse for video, providing a visible cue for bystanders.
Audio & Assistant
Open-ear speakers along the arms deliver clearer-than-expected podcasts, audiobooks and navigation prompts once volume is tuned via a quick swipe gesture. In typical street soundscapes, leakage remains modest at sensible volumes. Media control and capture flow through the assistant, with routing to connected services where supported.
Battery, Storage & Everyday Use
With an advertised 8-hour battery and 32GB of storage, the glasses suit commuting days and content scouting without constant phone juggling. The companion app handles setup, sync and voice features, enabling quick shares and simple library management.
Price, Frames & Lenses
The range starts at $379 / £379 with Wayfarer, Skyler and Headliner frames in a wide selection of finishes. Lens upgrades include Polarised and Transitions options; prescription lenses are region-dependent via participating partners.
Early Verdict
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) makes a persuasive case for everyday smart eyewear. Feather-light comfort, sharper video and a competent voice assistant add up to a product that feels practical for spontaneous capture and quick audio moments. Social context still matters with any camera-equipped glasses, but overall polish and ease of use place these among the most wearable options available.
Prices last checked on 18 September 2025. Availability may vary by region and retailer. If you buy via links, DealsToUK may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
FAQs
Is Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 available in the UK and the US?
Yes. It’s sold in both markets, with prices typically starting around £379 in the UK and $379 in the US, depending on frame and lens options.
What video quality do the glasses record?
Up to 3K at 30fps, with 1440p/30 and 1200p/60 for smaller files or smoother motion.
Can prescription lenses be fitted?
Yes, prescription availability varies by region and participating partners—check options at checkout.
How long does the battery last?
Up to around a full day of light use. Expect variations based on recording frequency, volume and assistant usage.
Are they safe to use in public?
A recording light indicates photo/video capture. Always follow local laws and respect privacy rules in public spaces.
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