Meta is wasting no time in shaping what it envisions as the era beyond smartphones. Following Mark Zuckerberg’s assertion that smart glasses will eventually replace mobile phones, the company is accelerating efforts to make this idea a reality. With a lineup of new models and cutting-edge augmented reality initiatives, Meta is moving ahead at full speed. But will consumers be ready to embrace this shift?
Supernova and Hypernova: Smart Glasses for Different Lifestyles
Meta is not only improving its Ray-Ban Stories but also expanding its reach into different markets. Under the Supernova project, the company is working on multiple smart glasses models designed for various user groups.
The first of these, Supernova 2, is set for release this year, taking inspiration from Oakley’s Sphaera sports eyewear. Aimed at cyclists and athletes, this model will feature an embedded camera, built-in speakers, and AI-powered enhancements tailored to active lifestyles.
For users seeking a more advanced option, Meta is developing Hypernova. This premium version will include a small screen integrated into the right lens, capable of displaying notifications, messages, and previews of photos.
While this doesn’t yet offer full augmented reality capabilities, it marks a significant step toward truly interactive eyewear. However, the cost may be a barrier for many, with an expected price tag of around $1,000—substantially higher than the $300 starting price of the Ray-Ban Stories.
Orion and Artemis: Meta’s High-Stakes Augmented Reality Bet
Beyond refining everyday smart glasses, Meta is also aiming to transform augmented reality. The most ambitious development in this space is Orion, a prototype unveiled last year that is designed to provide full AR functionality.
Unlike models that merely show notifications, Orion will require both a wrist-worn control device and an external processing unit, making it an advanced and complex system.
Its cost? A staggering $10,000. Clearly not intended for mainstream consumers, Orion is instead positioned as a tool for developers and is slated for release by 2026.
Following Orion, Meta is already working on Artemis, expected to debut in 2027. This next-generation model will be lighter and more streamlined while maintaining features such as gesture control via a smart wristband. The objective is clear: to make augmented reality more practical and accessible to tech enthusiasts.
Beyond Smart Glasses: Meta’s Expanding Ecosystem of Wearable Technology
Meta’s ambitions extend beyond smart glasses. The company is actively developing a range of wearable accessories designed to enhance the digital experience.
Among these efforts is a smartwatch, a project that has faced multiple cancellations and revivals, as well as wireless earbuds equipped with built-in cameras.
These high-tech earbuds could facilitate AI-driven real-time environmental analysis, potentially paving the way for even more immersive and interactive experiences.
Will Smart Glasses Truly Replace Smartphones?
Meta is pushing forward aggressively, but the crucial question remains: will consumers embrace smart glasses as their next essential device? While the Ray-Ban Stories have achieved moderate success, persuading users to abandon their smartphones in favor of glasses presents a far greater challenge.
Ultimately, factors such as cost, convenience, and widespread adoption will determine whether Zuckerberg’s vision becomes reality. If Meta succeeds, we could be witnessing the dawn of the post-smartphone era—but if it falls short, smart glasses might remain nothing more than an ambitious but niche experiment.