Meta's AR Ambitions Unveiled: Leaked Video Teases Ray-Ban Collaboration Ahead of Connect Conference

As of last week, Meta's (META) stock saw a slight decline of 0.24%. However, it exhibited a 3.02% increase over the past week and an impressive 33.18% rise year-to-date, with the company currently holding a market capitalization of approximately $1.955 trillion.

In anticipation of the upcoming Connect conference, Meta inadvertently revealed a collaboration with Ray-Ban through a video that was subsequently removed. This preview showcased a new smart display-equipped eyewear and a controllable wristband. The footage also highlighted Oakley's new wraparound "Sphaera" smart glasses, which include a built-in camera on the nose bridge. These unveilings indicate that Meta may have prematurely disclosed two major releases intended for this week's Connect conference.

The leaked video suggested the eyewear might be branded as "Meta Ray-Ban Display," featuring a display screen integrated into the right lens. Demonstrations included using the Meta AI voice assistant, navigating via lens-displayed maps, real-time translation, and message writing through hand motion detection.

Earlier reports suggested that the wristband accompanying the eyewear uses surface electromyography (sEMG) technology, interpreting electrical signals from hand movements to control devices, hinting at its practical applications.

Additionally, a separate video from the same early release indicated that Meta would unveil a semi-transparent version of Oakley HSTN smart glasses, reminiscent of the translucent Ray-Ban versions launched previously.

Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, is set to deliver the keynote at the Connect conference this Wednesday at 8:00 PM ET, where these innovative smart glasses are expected to make their formal debut.

This occurrence illustrates Meta's aggressive push into augmented reality (AR) technologies, bolstered by strategic partnerships and cutting-edge developments in wearable devices. The incidents preceding the conference have sparked considerable interest and speculation about Meta's future directions in the tech industry.