Ray-Ban’s second-gen Meta smart glasses take the classic Wayfarer shape from the brand’s core range and add hands-free camera, audio and voice features. They sit in the same conversation as Bose Frames and other “audio-first” smart glasses, but with a stronger focus on capture and Meta’s AI/assistant tools, all while looking like regular sunglasses rather than overt tech.

Who are these for — and who should skip them?

If you like grabbing quick clips without pulling out your phone, the built-in camera makes sense for walks, gigs and day trips. Open-ear speakers mean you can take calls or listen to music while still hearing traffic and conversations, though they won’t match in-ear buds for bass or isolation. They’re less compelling if you want a private listening experience, or if you’re uncomfortable with the social/ethical side of recording from eyewear.

• Wayfarer frame: familiar fit and styling, so it doesn’t scream “gadget”.
• Hands-free capture: quicker than unlocking a phone for short photos and videos.
• Open-ear audio: better awareness outdoors, weaker in noisy places.