Meta's $800 Hypernova Glasses Aim to Make AR Mainstream

Meta is preparing to launch its Hypernova smart glasses in September, with a price tag of $800, a significant reduction from earlier estimates that had projected the device at $1,000 or more [2]. The glasses, developed in collaboration with Luxottica, will include a small digital display on the right lens, primarily for displaying incoming text messages and notifications [1]. The device is expected to be sold alongside an sEMG wristband controller, which allows users to interact with the glasses using hand gestures [1]. The wristband is a key component in the development of future full AR glasses and leverages machine learning to adapt to user input. Meta’s CTRL Labs, acquired in 2019, is responsible for the neural technology embedded in the wristband [1].

Meta is also expected to introduce a third generation of its voice-only smart glasses at the Connect event in September, which will feature touch controls on the frame [3]. These devices are part of an extended partnership with Luxottica that has already yielded successful sales figures; Luxottica CEO Francesco Milleri stated in February that the company sold two million pairs of the second-generation Ray-Ban smart glasses since 2023 [1]. The collaboration has also seen a 300% year-over-year revenue increase from smart glasses [1]. As part of an agreement announced in September, Meta secured a 3% stake in Luxottica and exclusive rights to several of the company's brands for its smart glasses technology [1].

The Hypernova smart glasses represent a strategic move by Meta to bridge the gap between its current smart glasses and the development of full AR glasses. With basic smart glass features and a focus on mainstream adoption, Meta aims to make the technology more accessible. The lower price point is seen as a way to increase demand and gain market traction [2]. The glasses are expected to run a customized version of Android, though they will not feature a dedicated app store [2]. Instead, the device will be controlled using the sEMG wristband and touch gestures on the frame [2]. Meta is also reaching out to developers to begin testing Hypernova and the accompanying wristband, with a particular interest in generative AI apps [1].

The design and functionality of the Hypernova glasses reflect a balance between technological innovation and practicality. Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s technology chief, highlighted the advantages of using a monocular display, stating that it offers cost and design benefits over binocular displays [1]. The glasses will include a lens display function that allows users to interface with visual content, and components for image data retrieval and rendering [3]. Despite these features, the visual capabilities are expected to be limited, with a field of view of about 20 degrees [1].

Meta’s approach to pricing and design is influenced by the broader market dynamics in the mixed reality segment. High-priced devices, such as Apple’s Vision Pro, have struggled to gain traction due to their cost. Meta’s decision to price the Hypernova glasses at $800 is a response to these market conditions [2]. The company is aiming to appeal to a broader audience, not just high-end enthusiasts, by making the technology more affordable. This pricing strategy aligns with a common approach in the technology industry where companies accept lower margins to drive adoption and scale [2]. The success of this strategy will depend on how well the Hypernova glasses are received in the market and whether they can establish a place as a daily-use device beyond novelty status [2].

Source:

[1] Meta to unveil Hypernova smart glasses with a display, wristband at Connect next month (https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/22/meta-hypernova-ar-glasses-wristband.html)

[2] Meta's next-gen smart glasses could land next month for less cash than you'd think (https://www.androidcentral.com/gaming/virtual-reality/metas-next-gen-smart-glasses-could-land-next-month-for-less-cash-than-youd-think)

[3] Meta might be close to launching its smart glasses with a display (https://www.theverge.com/news/764797/meta-might-be-close-to-launching-its-smart-glasses-with-a-display)