Oakley Meta HSTN and Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: German language support transforms smart eyewear technology – Image: Xpert.Digital
Ray-Ban for everyday life, Oakley for sports: Meta takes the next step with its smart glasses – and Deutsch is involved
A new milestone for smart glasses in Germany
The world of smart eyewear technology is experiencing a significant advancement: Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses now fully support German. This development marks a turning point for German users who previously relied on English, French, Italian, or Spanish voice commands. With the introduction of German voice support, a completely new dimension of hands-free communication and control opens up.
Meta's smart glasses, developed in partnership with the world's largest eyewear manufacturer EssilorLuxottica, combine Ray-Ban's iconic design with cutting-edge technology. This fusion of timeless style and innovative functionality has already sold over two million pairs and is driving the rapid growth of the smart glasses market.
The German language function allows users, for the first time, to interact with their smart glasses in German, take photos, retrieve information, send messages, and make calls. This development underscores Meta's commitment to making its AI technology accessible worldwide while breaking down cultural and linguistic barriers.
The development history of smart glasses technology
From Ray-Ban Stories to Ray-Ban Meta
The story of smart Ray-Ban glasses begins in 2019 with the groundbreaking partnership between Meta (then Facebook) and EssilorLuxottica. This collaboration was initiated by Rocco Basilico, head of EssilorLuxottica's wearables business, who sent Mark Zuckerberg a visionary email in 2018. The first generation, known as Ray-Ban Stories, was launched in September 2021, laying the foundation for a new product category.
The Ray-Ban Stories already represented a remarkable technological advancement, but their functionality was still limited. With only 5-megapixel cameras, limited 4 GB of storage, and simpler audio technology, they merely represented the first step towards smart eyewear technology.
The decisive advancement came with the introduction of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses in October 2023. This second generation brought significant improvements: a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, 32 GB of storage capacity, improved speakers with 50 percent higher volume and double the bass response, and the integration of Meta AI.
Related to this:
Technological milestones
The development of the Ray-Ban Meta represents a quantum leap in the miniaturization of technology. Despite the significant technical improvements, the engineers even managed to slightly reduce the weight of the glasses – from 49.2 grams for the Stories to 48 grams for the Meta version.
This weight reduction combined with expanded functionality highlights the enormous progress in microelectronics and battery technology. The integration of a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 processor enables complex AI calculations directly within the glasses.
Comprehensive technical equipment
Camera and recording functions
The centerpiece of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is a high-resolution 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. This enables photos with a resolution of 3024 x 4032 pixels and video recording in Full HD quality at 1080p and 30 frames per second. The camera is cleverly integrated into the left temple and is barely noticeable when worn normally.
The recording functions go far beyond simple snapshots. Users can record videos up to three minutes long or even stream live to Instagram and Facebook for up to 30 minutes. This functionality makes the glasses a valuable tool for content creators, influencers, and anyone who wants to capture spontaneous moments from a first-person perspective.
Audio system and communication
The Ray-Ban Meta's audio system represents an impressive technical achievement. Two specially designed open-ear speakers are seamlessly integrated into the temples, delivering 50 percent higher volume and twice the bass compared to the first generation.
Five microphones form a sophisticated noise-canceling array, enabling crystal-clear phone calls and precise voice recordings. This technology utilizes directional microphones that effectively filter out ambient noise and focus on the wearer's voice.
Energy supply and connectivity
The power supply has been significantly improved compared to the first generation. With a battery life of up to four hours under normal use and a charging case that provides an additional 32 hours of operating time, the Ray-Ban Meta achieves a total usage time of 36 hours. The fast-charging function is particularly noteworthy: the glasses charge to 50 percent capacity in just 20 minutes.
Connectivity is provided via WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and energy-efficient connection to smartphones and other devices. The glasses are waterproof to IPX4 standard and can therefore be used in light rain or during strenuous activities.
German language support as a breakthrough
Implementation and availability
The introduction of German language support for Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses represents a significant milestone. After months of delays due to data privacy concerns and regulatory hurdles, Meta AI is finally available in German. This feature was rolled out gradually and has been available to all German users since July 2025.
To activate the German language function, users must access the device settings in the Meta AI app and, under the "Meta AI" menu item, change the "Language and Voice" option to German. The activation command "Hey Meta" will then work entirely in German, and the AI will also respond in German.
Functionality in German
With German language support, users can use all the basic functions of the smart glasses in their native language. These include:
Taking photos and videos using simple voice commands like “Hey Meta, take a photo” or “Hey Meta, record a video.” Controlling media, including playing music via Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. Sending and receiving messages via WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Making hands-free phone calls.
Particularly valuable is the ability to ask Meta AI questions about the surroundings. Users can view landmarks, plants, or other objects and ask questions in German: “Hey Meta, what kind of building is that?” or “Hey Meta, what is the name of this plant?”.
Translation functions
A highlight of the German language support is the live translation function. This enables real-time translations between German and other supported languages such as English, French, Italian, and Spanish. The function works both online and offline, provided the corresponding language packs have been downloaded.
Artificial intelligence and assistance functions
Meta AI Integration
The integration of Meta AI transforms Ray-Ban Smart Glasses from a simple recording device into an intelligent personal assistant. The AI utilizes the new Llama 4 model, which offers significant improvements in image understanding, document analysis, and conversational responses.
The multimodal AI can process both visual and auditory input. Using its integrated camera, it analyzes the environment in real time and answers questions about what the user sees. This capability enables context-aware interactions that go far beyond those of conventional voice assistants.
Contextual memory
A key feature of Meta AI is its contextual awareness. The AI can remember previous conversations and their context, enabling natural, multi-layered dialogues. Users can ask follow-up questions without having to repeat the context, making the interaction smoother and more human.
Practical applications
AI functions open up diverse applications in everyday life: object recognition and information for unknown objects, plants, or landmarks; navigation and directions without the need to use a smartphone; real-time translation of text and spoken content; and shopping support through product information and price comparisons.
🗒️ Xpert.Digital: A pioneer in the field of Extended and Augmented Reality
Finding the right Metaverse agency, planning office, or consulting firm - Image: Xpert.Digital
🗒️ Finding the right Metaverse agency, planning office, or consulting firm – Search and search: Top Ten Tips for Consulting & Planning
More information here:
From toy to professional tool: The incredible evolution of XR technology
Oakley Meta HSTN: Sport meets technology
Specialization for athletes
Alongside the Ray-Ban Meta, Meta, in collaboration with Oakley, developed the Meta HSTN. These smart glasses are specifically designed for athletes and combine the proven technology of the Ray-Ban Meta with Oakley's sporty design and functionality.
The Oakley Meta HSTN features improved camera technology with 3K video recording, compared to the 2K recording of the Ray-Ban Meta. The camera is centrally positioned on the frame, ensuring a more stable recording position during sports activities.
Related to this:
Extended battery life
A key advantage of the Oakley Meta HSTN is its significantly improved battery life. With eight hours of normal use and 19 hours in standby mode, it offers twice the operating time of the Ray-Ban Meta. The charging case provides an additional 48 hours of runtime.
German language support from the start
The Oakley Meta HSTN will offer full German language support from its launch in summer 2025. This means German users can use the smart sports glasses in their native language from the start, without having to wait for updates.
Market development and commercial success
Impressive sales figures
The commercial success of the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is remarkable. Since their launch in October 2023, over two million units have been sold. This figure far surpasses the sales of the first-generation Ray-Ban Stories, of which fewer than 300,000 units were sold in the same period.
Growth of the smart glasses market
Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have significantly contributed to the growth of the overall smart glasses market. According to Counterpoint Research, the global smart glasses market grew by an impressive 210 percent in 2024. Meta dominates this market with over 60 percent market share.
Market researchers predict further growth of 60 percent for 2025, with an average annual growth rate of over 60 percent until 2029. The market value is expected to rise from US$5.78 billion in 2024 to US$20.83 billion by 2033.
Production expansion
Due to high demand, EssilorLuxottica is planning a massive increase in production capacity. The company aims to raise its annual production capacity to ten million units by the end of 2026. This expansion underscores its confidence in the long-term growth potential of the market.
Future prospects and innovations
Long-term partnership
Meta and EssilorLuxottica have extended their collaboration into the next decade with a new long-term agreement. This partnership aims to produce “smart eyewear products that span generations.” Mark Zuckerberg emphasized: “We have the opportunity to make eyewear the next big technology platform while also making it fashionable.”.
Upcoming Innovations
More exciting developments are planned for 2025. Meta is working intensively on smart glasses with an integrated heads-up display, codenamed “Hypernova.” These are expected to feature a small display in the lower right corner of the lens and cost between $1,000 and $1,400.
Advanced AI features
The AI functions are continuously being developed. Meta is testing “Full-Duplex Speech,” which aims to enable more natural, overlapping conversations similar to human interactions. Meta is also working on improved facial recognition and even more precise object identification.
Significance for the future of technology
Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses with German language support mark an important step in the evolution of wearable technology. They demonstrate how advanced AI can be seamlessly integrated into everyday objects without compromising their traditional function or aesthetics. German language support makes this innovative technology fully accessible to the German market for the first time and paves the way for wider acceptance of smart glasses.
With over two million units sold, a rapidly growing market, and continuous technological improvements, smart glasses have a promising future. The combination of stylish design, practical functionality, and powerful AI technology could indeed lay the foundation for the next major technology platform – one that complements or even partially replaces the smartphone.
We are here for you - Consulting - Planning - Implementation - Project Management
☑️ SME support in strategy, consulting, planning and implementation
☑️ Creation or realignment of the digital strategy and digitization
☑️ Expansion and optimization of international sales processes
☑️ Global & Digital B2B trading platforms
☑️ Pioneer Business Development
Konrad Wolfenstein
I would be happy to serve as your personal advisor.
You can contact me by filling out the contact form below or simply call me on +49 7348 4088 965 .
I'm looking forward to our joint project.
Write to me
Xpert.Digital - Konrad Wolfenstein
Xpert.Digital is a hub for industry focusing on digitalization, mechanical engineering, logistics/intralogistics and photovoltaics.
With our 360° Business Development solution, we support renowned companies from new business to after-sales.
Market intelligence, smarketing, marketing automation, content development, PR, mail campaigns, personalized social media and lead nurturing are part of our digital tools.
You can find more information at: www.xpert.digital - www.xpert.solar - www.xpert.plus
Keep in touch
