NEW YORK — Meta Platforms Inc. on Tuesday unveiled a new line of smart glasses starting at $299, aiming to broaden access to AI-powered wearable technology as competition intensifies in the emerging market.

The Meta Glasses represent the company's first in-house designed eyewear without Ray-Ban or Oakley branding, though they maintain a partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of those brands. The lower price point undercuts the entry-level second-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses by at least $80.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has prioritized wearables as part of the company's strategy to establish a hardware platform in the artificial intelligence era. While virtual reality headsets have remained niche, smart glasses have shown stronger consumer adoption, with millions of units sold since the initial Ray-Ban Meta launch in 2021.

The new glasses lack a display screen but feature a camera, open-ear speakers, and integration with Meta's AI assistant. Users can ask the AI for real-time translations, object recognition, reminders, or to capture photos and videos. Content can be easily shared to Instagram or WhatsApp.

The glasses come in three new designs with multiple variations, including options for prescription lenses. A dedicated charging stand accompanies the product. Battery life reaches up to eight hours, according to company specifications.

Meta executives highlighted the accessible........

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