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The new collaboration between Meta and Oakley aims to lead a new category of AI-powered glasses focused on physical performance and hands-free experience.
Meta has announced a new partnership with Oakley to introduce the Oakley Meta HSTN, smart glasses specifically designed for sports performance and action, integrating artificial intelligence, an ultra-high-definition camera, and speakers into a robust and sleek design. This launch marks a strategic shift from the previous Ray-Ban Meta, clearly attempting to differentiate from the premium and mixed-reality approach of the Apple Vision Pro.
The Oakley Meta HSTN (pronounced How-stuhn) are aimed at both professional athletes and active users who want to capture their daily activities, access AI features, and play content without using their hands or diverting their attention. They will be available from 499 dollars in a limited edition starting July 11, with a general collection starting at 399 dollars.
What do the new Oakley Meta HSTN bring?
The HSTN clearly represent an evolution from the Ray-Ban Meta, targeting a more athletic and technical audience. Here are their main features:
- 3K Ultra HD Camera: A significant upgrade from the 12 MP camera of the Ray-Ban Meta (1080p), allowing for more detailed recordings, ideal for capturing action in sports like golf, skateboarding, or surfing.
- Enhanced Open Speakers: Like the Ray-Bans, the HSTN integrate speakers in the temples, but now with a more powerful and water-resistant design (IPX4), perfect for outdoor use.
- Integrated Meta AI: The voice assistant allows users to check weather conditions, record videos, or play music without touching any device. This functionality was already present in the Ray-Bans but is positioned here as a performance tool.
- Improved Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of active usage and 19 hours in standby. Fast charging allows reaching 50% in just 20 minutes, and the case provides up to an additional 48 hours. This surpasses the average 6-7 hours of the Ray-Ban Meta.
Comparison: Oakley Meta HSTN vs Ray-Ban Meta vs Apple Vision Pro
| Feature | Oakley Meta HSTN | Ray-Ban Meta (2nd Gen) | Apple Vision Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | From 399 USD | From 299 USD | From 3,499 USD |
| Camera | 3K Ultra HD | 1080p, 12 MP | Multiple 3D Cameras |
| Speakers | Open Ear, Water-resistant | Open Ear | Spatial Surround Sound |
| AI Assistant | Meta AI | Meta AI | Siri + Advanced Processing |
| Battery Life | Up to 8 h + case (48 h) | Up to 6 h + case (36 h) | 2 h of use (with external battery) |
| Focus | Sports / Performance | Lifestyle / Social | Mixed Reality and Productivity |
| Screen | None | None | Dual 4K micro-OLED Screens |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | Not specified | Not water-resistant |
| Hands-Free for Social Media | Yes, with voice command | Yes | Yes, but requires more setup |
A Differentiated Approach
While the Ray-Ban Meta were clearly aimed at a young, urban audience interested in social media, fashion, and capturing everyday moments, the Oakley Meta HSTN target a more athletic and professional profile. These glasses are designed to capture workouts, analyze environmental conditions, provide directions, or play music while on the move.
In contrast, the Apple Vision Pro represents another paradigm. Its approach is not traditional wearable, but rather a spatial computer with advanced mixed reality, 3D sensors, and internal screens that project virtual environments. While Apple has achieved complete integration with its ecosystem, its glasses are not designed for everyday or active physical use, but rather for productivity, immersive entertainment, and indoor augmented reality.
Global Availability and Launch
The limited edition of the Oakley Meta HSTN will be available for pre-order on July 11. The full collection will launch over the summer in the USA, Canada, the UK, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, and several European countries. Their arrival is also planned in Mexico, India, and the United Arab Emirates by late 2025.
The launch will be accompanied by a global campaign featuring athletes like Kylian Mbappé, Patrick Mahomes, Gabriel Medina, Boo Johnson, and Ishod Wair, showcasing the use of the glasses in surfing, golf, skateboarding, and more. They will also debut at events like Fanatics Fest and UFC International Fight Week.
Conclusion:
Meta continues to expand its ecosystem of smart glasses with a new product that distances itself from both the Ray-Ban Meta and Apple’s futuristic offering. The Oakley Meta HSTN aim not to replace screens or isolate users from the real world, but to integrate into movement, capture athletic performance, and provide easy access to AI.
A new category has emerged: glasses with AI for athletes, creators in action, and users who prefer to keep seeing the world, but now with technology in their own eyes.
via: Social Media News
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