Meta Connect 2026 showcased new smart glasses and VR technology while expanding AI services. Here's what small business owners should know about the announcements.
Meta Connect 2026, held on September 23 and 24 at the company's headquarters in Menlo Park, California, unveiled a range of new devices and enhanced services geared towards both consumers and businesses. Mark Zuckerberg introduced updates including smart glasses without a camera, an innovative lightweight VR headset, and new AI tools through their Muse platform. With these product launches, Meta aims to address privacy concerns while enhancing user experiences in technology.
Key Announcements from Meta Connect 2026
Below is an overview of the devices announced at the event, including pricing and expected release dates. It's important to note that the prices mentioned are for the U.S. market, and may vary in other regions.
1. Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3
The Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 is now available at a starting price of $449. This model replaces the Gen 2 from 2025 and features several upgrades:
- Slender frames with adjustable temple tips for enhanced fit.
- Battery life extended to nine hours, an hour more than the previous generation.
- A newly introduced action button providing quick access to Meta AI without using the trigger phrase.
- Enhanced microphone capabilities, boasting six mics that reportedly reduce over 90% of background noise during calls.
The camera specifications remain unchanged, with 12-megapixel photo capabilities and 3K video recording. The Gen 3 offers 27 combinations of frames and lenses, including newly designed options like the Aviator and Zena cat-eye styles. A limited-edition Aviator Connect variant is priced at $579, which is an increase from the previous model's launch cost.
2. The LISA Edition
Collaborating with K-pop sensation LISA from BLACKPINK, Meta introduced two stylish frame options—Adventurer LISA Edition and Capri LISA Edition. These frames start at $399 and come with unique features such as:
- Distinct star detailing on the frames.
- A special decorative case.
- Case charms inspired by LISA’s animals.
- Exclusive digital photocards accessible through the glasses.
These special editions are part of the overall Meta Glasses line rather than the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3 series.
3. Ray-Ban Meta Audio
The Ray-Ban Meta Audio represents Meta's first foray into audio-centric glasses. With open-ear speakers, users can enjoy music, attend calls, and interact with Meta AI without any built-in cameras. While this addresses privacy concerns linked to visual recording, the glasses still include microphones for voice recognition.
- Weight: 43 grams
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours on a single charge, plus an additional 48 hours using the case.
- Frame Options: Clubmaster and Burbank with 23 color and lens combinations.
- Price and Availability: Starting from $349, with pre-orders open now and shipping scheduled for October 13.
4. Meta VR Glasses
Weighing around 100 grams, the Meta VR Glasses offer a streamlined alternative to traditional headsets. They achieve a lighter design by separating the display and processing hardware. The glasses incorporate displays and sensors, while a small puck houses the processor, battery, and applications. This innovative setup allows for pocket or table-mounted convenience.
The Meta VR Glasses retail for $1,299.99 and are expected to launch in spring 2027. Control options include eye movements, hand gestures, and voice commands, with controllers available for certain activities.
- At launch, the glasses will support over 75 games compatible with hand gesture controls.
- Touch Plus controllers are available for those who require them.
- A Bluetooth gamepad will be compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Notably, the popular game Beat Saber will introduce a new hand-tracking mode, Flux, next spring, operational on both the VR Glasses and Quest.
Work and Entertainment Features
For business use, Meta VR Glasses enable users to access multiple virtual displays simultaneously, allowing desks to function as keyboards or touchpads. Moreover, the device supports partnerships with various streaming and sports networks, including immersive experiences of major films like Avengers: Infinity War and Star Wars: A New Hope.
Hologram Communication
Meta also showcased a hologram feature allowing users to create lifelike digital representations of themselves for calls by scanning their faces. This feature will be available at launch for Meta VR Glasses users, with early access extended to Ray-Ban Display users in the U.S.
5. Muse Charm
The Muse Charm is a compact device designed for interacting directly with Muse, Meta’s AI assistant. Although specific details, including pricing and a definitive release date, were not disclosed, initial reports suggest it could be available by the holiday season. It is expected to feature voice recognition capabilities and operate independently of a smartphone.
6. Muse, Meta’s AI Agent
Muse went live on September 8, just prior to the Connect event, enabling users to perform a variety of technical tasks, including online shopping, travel planning, and form-filling. Muse prioritizes user approval for sensitive actions such as email or payment confirmations and operates within a secure virtual environment known as the Muse Secure VM.
Enhanced Capabilities
Recent updates enable Muse to integrate with an expanded array of platforms:
- Shopping Partners: Supports various major retailers including Walmart, Best Buy, and Sephora.
- Payment Methods: Now includes Shop Pay and PayPal, alongside Stripe’s existing connections.
- Travel and Grocery Services: Partnerships with Expedia and Instacart enhance its utility.
- Work Applications: Compatibility with tools like Notion and GitHub will be available.
To ensure effectiveness, users should verify which services are operational in their respective regions before relying on Muse for tasks.
Integration Across Devices
Muse is now available on Macs and is expected to be integrated into AI glasses in upcoming months, providing voice assistance based on user context.
Customization Options
Users can customize both the voice output and appearance of Muse through detailed preferences, making the AI personal and responsive to user commands.
7. New Features for Meta Glasses
Enhanced Hearing Assist
Meta is introducing FDA-approved software tailored for adults with mild to moderate hearing impairment, set to be offered in the U.S. for $149.99 or included with a Meta One subscription.
Updated Directional Capabilities
Ray-Ban Display users will soon gain access to improved navigation features, including public transit and cycling directions from this month. Additionally, hologram calls will be rolled out to U.S. users in the upcoming months.
Privacy Features and Camera Updates
Privacy advancements are key, with a new processing feature ensuring that specific AI requests remain private. Enhanced camera functionalities will also be available, including advanced video capture options, although universal rollout dates are still pending.
Further Announcements
- Meta Adventurer: A new budget-friendly option priced at $249, launching on October 23 in all regions where Meta Glasses are available.
- New Frame Options: Introduction of the Capri and Nova frames, plus a limited Meta Fury edition exclusive to Connect and Meta Lab stores.
- Mix & Match Program: A new initiative allowing customization of glasses selections.
- Expanded Selection: By the end of 2026, Meta aims to present over 100 different glasses styles across its product lines.
Market Availability in Africa
South Africa
Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta glasses will reach South Africa along with 11 other new markets in late 2026. However, specific local pricing and release dates remain undisclosed.
Nigeria and Kenya
No official announcements have been made regarding the availability of the new devices in Nigeria or Kenya. Prospective customers may look to local online markets for possibly imported units while checking compatibility and warranty options.
Feature Limitations by Region
Some features, including the hearing enhancement software and specific integrations with shopping partners, are currently limited to certain regions. Users in African nations should carefully assess local availability and services before making any purchases.
Meta Connect 2026 reflects a concerted effort by Meta to evolve its product offerings and seamlessly integrate them with AI technology, aiming to address consumer concerns about privacy while enhancing usability in diverse environments.
