Meta Reportedly Prepares Camera-Free Smart Glasses for October Launch

The Information says Luna will come in two styles, Clubmaster and Burbank. The glasses will not have a camera, but they will have six built-in microphones and speakers. The Verge reported that the microphones will let users talk to Meta AI and a new Muse AI agent, while the speakers will provide audio playback. Engadget reported that the speakers point toward the user’s ears. A button on the side will let users quickly activate Meta AI, and the glasses will have slimmer temples or arms than current models, making them look closer to ordinary eyewear, according to the reports.

Meta Connect is scheduled for September 23 and 24, and The Information reported that Luna could be revealed there. The Verge reported that Meta is also expected to show new augmented reality glasses at the event, codenamed Phoenix, which are designed to bring up a virtual workspace or movie screen in AR. Those glasses are set to release in 2027 and follow a similar AR concept device from 2024, according to The Verge.

Meta’s existing smart glasses have sold well, but they have also drawn a privacy backlash centered on their camera. Critics have called the current models “pervert glasses,” and concerns have focused on the devices being used to creep on women and to secretly record or harass people. The glasses include an LED light that blinks while recording, and Meta has said the camera will stop working if the LED is tampered with. The company has still been in a cat-and-mouse game with a small group of users who developed workarounds to record with the LED off. In August, Meta released an update to close a loophole that allowed users to secretly film others by covering the LED after recording had already started, Engadget reported.

The glasses have been banned in places including New York courtrooms and Britain’s largest pub chain, The Verge reported. The Verge also noted that removing the camera may not entirely solve Meta’s privacy problems. Apple Watch models announced last week drew criticism for always-on audio recording capabilities, and Meta’s new glasses could raise their own concerns because of their microphones and a design that makes them harder to distinguish from regular glasses. The Verge added that when it comes to trust, Meta rarely gets the benefit of the doubt.

Earlier reports from Engadget said Meta was developing the camera-free model and planning to start shipping it as soon as October. The company is hoping Luna will encourage potential customers who have been hesitant about the current models to finally make a purchase.