Published on: January 22, 2025 / Update from: January 22, 2025 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
Meta is planning Oakley smart glasses “Supernova 2” and “Hypernova” for this year – as well as AR glasses “Artemis” for 2027 – creative/symbolic image: Xpert.Digital
Meta plans Oakley smart glasses 'Supernova 2' and 'Hypernova'
New generation of Oakley smart glasses for Meta
According to a recent report from Bloomberg , Meta plans to launch a new generation of smart glasses in collaboration with Oakley. These glasses, internally referred to as “Supernova 2”, are based on Oakley’s Sphaera model and are aimed specifically at cyclists and outdoor athletes. Particularly noteworthy is the eye-catching design, which features a camera in the central position - in contrast to the side-positioned cameras of the current Ray-Ban Meta glasses. This design is intended to improve functionality for sports activities.
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High-end version: “Hypernova”
In addition to the “Supernova 2” glasses, Meta is working on a high-end version of smart glasses, known internally by the code name “Hypernova”. These glasses, also expected for 2025, feature a display at the bottom of the right lens. This display is designed to show simple apps, smartphone notifications and captured photos. The estimated price of these glasses is around $1,000.
Meta and the wearable technology strategy
These developments are part of Meta's broader strategy to expand its presence in wearable technologies and integrate AI into a wider range of products. Through the cooperation with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Oakley, Meta has the opportunity to transfer its technology to other well-known eyewear brands.
Future perspective: AR glasses “Artemis”
In the more distant future, Meta plans to release a full-fledged AR glasses codenamed “Artemis”. This is scheduled for early 2027 and is expected to be technologically more advanced and lighter than the current “Orion” prototype.
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Advances in wearable technology
The integration of displays into smart glasses is a significant step in the further development of wearables. Features such as displaying notifications, navigation and other information in users' field of vision create a seamless connection between the digital and real worlds. These technologies offer significant added value, especially to athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, as they can receive important information without having to use additional devices.
Oakley and the connection between technology and design
The collaboration between Meta and EssilorLuxottica illustrates the ambition to combine technological innovations with aesthetic and functional design. Oakley, known for its high-quality sports glasses, offers a perfect basis for the development of smart glasses that support active lifestyles. The central camera positioning on the Supernova 2 models allows athletes to record activities from a natural perspective without compromising the ergonomics of the glasses.
AR functionality and the trend towards “Hypernova” glasses
The planned “Hypernova” glasses with an integrated display underline the growing trend of integrating AR functions into everyday technologies. Although these glasses cannot be considered a full-fledged AR solution, they offer basic functions such as displaying notifications and navigation data. Such developments pave the way for future innovations in which AR glasses could increasingly play a central role.
The long-term vision: Meta's involvement with the “Artemis” glasses
Meta's long-term vision of creating an immersive AR experience with the "Artemis" glasses shows the company's commitment to augmented reality. The challenge is to integrate powerful technologies into a lightweight and comfortable design suitable for everyday use. Advances in display technology as well as battery performance will be critical to turning such visions into reality.
The importance of smart glasses for the future
Current developments reflect the growing interest and potential of the smartglasses market. The focus is on both technological innovations and fashionable designs. Integrating features like photography, music playback and notification display into stylish frames appeals to a wide range of audiences - from tech lovers to fashion-conscious people. The coming years will show how this market continues to develop and what new opportunities arise through the combination of technology and fashion.
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