In the fast-evolving world of technology,a new contender has emerged,capturing the attention of both consumers and critics alike: the Rayban Meta smart glasses.Initially overlooked by tech magnate Mark Zuckerberg,these eyeglasses have quickly transformed into a must-have item for Silicon Valley's trendsetters.Within just nine months of their release,the second generation of Rayban Meta glasses has surpassed one million units sold.This is a significant leap compared to the first generation,which took a year and a half to reach a mere 300,000 sales.
The Rayban Meta smart glasses,a collaboration between Meta and the iconic eyewear brand Rayban,are powered by Meta's advanced model,LIama3.This integration has enhanced the device's camera performance,enabling features such as voice interaction,object recognition,and text translation.Consequently,the Meta glasses have emerged as a surprise success in the smart hardware market,attracting the interest of both domestic and international tech giants.
According to unofficial statistics from Tech Planet,numerous companies,including Baidu,Xiaomi,Samsung,Thunderbird,and Shanzhu,have announced plans to release their own AI glasses equipped with large models.In an era where innovations in mobile technology have plateaued,AI glasses have become the centerpiece of interest as we approach the fourth quarter of the year.
On November 12,during the 2024 Baidu World Conference,Li Ying,CEO of Baidu Technology,unveiled the world’s first native AI glasses enabled with a Chinese large model—Baidu AI glasses.Despite Li's demonstration while wearing the glasses,the audience was left in the dark about the actual user experience since the product won't be available until the first half of 2025.
Just a week after Baidu’s launch,former Alibaba M Studio head Zhu Mingming introduced the Rokid Glasses in Hangzhou,co-developed with the eyewear brand BOLON.The official description claims these glasses will provide museum visitors with instantaneous historical context about exhibits and assist travelers in identifying unfamiliar plants or animals.They are also touted to support payment functionality through the glasses.Pre-orders for Rokid Glasses have commenced,with delivery expected in the second quarter of next year; however,Tech Planet reported no details on pre-order numbers on the official site.
Since Meta’s first AI glasses debuted last September,around ten domestic companies have been working on their own products.To date,only Meta,Meizu,Huawei,and Chengang Technology have successfully delivered their devices,while others have delayed their releases until next year.
The initial success of Meta AI glasses can be attributed to their pioneering photography capabilities.In contrast,products from Huawei,Meizu,and Chengang Technology primarily focus on audio translations,but have not achieved impressive sales numbers.
According to data from the StarV official Douyin flagship store,the newly released Star Air2ar glasses,priced at 2799 yuan,have sold fewer than 100 units.Sales on JD.com are slightly better,topping out at just over 1,000.Conversely,the Chengang Technology's AI audio glasses,priced at 699 yuan,have seen sales exceeding 2,000 on JD.com since their launch in July.
Insiders predict that the earliest delivery of AI glasses with video recording features could come from Shanzhu,which has collaborated with the Hong Kong fashion brand LOHO,integrating the iFLYTEK large model.Guoke CEO Ji Shisan stated that in the ongoing battle for AI filming glasses,Shanzhu has gained a critical advantage as the first brand to achieve substantial volume production.
With a retail price of just 999 yuan,Shanzhu's AI glasses are the most budget-friendly option on the market.However,their recent pre-order process has faced delays; the company initially planned to ship in late November,but recently closed pre-orders before resuming them again.Current explanations cite additional complications in research and supply chain production,leaving the actual delivery date uncertain.
Feedback from prospective consumers reveals a common sentiment: many users only desire the photography capabilities rather than the AI functionalities.For instance,a beauty professional expressed interest in using the glasses to capture first-person view videos during eyelash extensions,while a doctor hopes to record surgical procedures for educational purposes.
As it stands,the only available AI glasses capable of recording are the Rayban Meta.Users can take photos or videos through voice commands or buttons,and they even support real-time streaming on Facebook and Instagram.The backing of these established social media platforms has undoubtedly bolstered the sales of Rayban Meta glasses.
Despite this success,the AI capabilities of current models have made marginal impacts on overall sales.The primary functions,including knowledge inquiries,translation services,guided tours,and meeting notes,are often utilized infrequently.An AR industry participant summarized the current perception: "AI functionality feels less relevant now.The main attractions of these products remain the cameras and audio capabilities,with AI serving as a secondary feature."
Furthermore,the wearing experience of AI glasses is less than ideal.Most current models lack display capabilities,which does help ease some weight concerns.However,due to the inclusion of chips and sensors,the weight generally hovers around 45 grams—though those requiring corrective lenses may find their glasses tipping the scales at 57 grams once prescription lenses are added.
Typically,lightweight glasses weigh around 15 grams,while standard frames fall between 20-30 grams.This highlights a significant drawback of existing AI glasses—they are uncomfortable for prolonged wear.Additionally,nearly all AI glasses still struggle with battery life.For example,Meta's continuous shooting capabilities are limited to just three hours,a notable limitation considering the user expectations around versatile photogenic experiences.
Another factor propelling the Meta glasses' popularity is their alliance with the stylish Rayban brand.However,consumer feedback has indicated challenges for individuals with lower nose bridges,particularly in Asia,leading to sliding issues during wear.A local eyewear store owner noted that aesthetics significantly influence buying decisions,especially for glasses worn over extended periods.Interestingly,he holds positive views about Shanzhu due to its appealing design.
Put simply,there are no AI glasses on the market that perfectly align weight and functionality with user demands.At the end of the day,AI glasses need to effectively function as eyeglasses first; without sufficient comfort and visual appeal,they risk remaining a niche electronic device.
As competition in the AI glasses sector intensifies,numerous players are entering the fray in hopes of seizing the fleeting market window.A recent report revealed that the potential for AI glasses has attracted more than 36 manufacturers,with expected product numbers surpassing 50.The industry is ever-focusing on maximizing the utility of existing technology,particularly as certain AI features still lack widespread appeal,much like attempts to enhance electric vehicle sales via autonomous driving features alone.
While Meta has proven profitability through one million units sold in a year,the reality remains stark: with few consumers keen on merely AI functionalities,many companies face an uphill battle to survive in a landscape that may not accommodate numerous competitors.The race for AI glasses has just begun,but their long-term success will depend largely on striking a balance between attracting potential customers with both style and usability.