Meta launches prescription-compatible Ray-Ban Optics glasses with upgraded fit and features

Meta and Luxottica have introduced the Ray-Ban Optics series, a version of the second-generation Ray-Ban smart glasses designed for users who need prescription lenses. The frames retain the overall look of the Gen 2 lineup but include interchangeable nose pads, a low-bridge option and moldable tips to improve comfort and reduce slippage. Battery life is modestly increased, with the Blayzer and Scriber models rated for "more than 8 hours" of use, compared with the previous "up to 8 hours" claim.

A new customizable action button on the side of the frame allows quick access to frequently used commands, such as reading incoming text messages through the open-ear speakers. Meta AI, now powered by the Muse Spark model, offers faster, more conversational responses and a longer listening window after a voice command, though users can disable the extended listening period.

The base price for the Optics frames starts at $499; adding prescription lenses, a blue-light filter and scratch-resistant coating pushes the total cost above $700 before tax and shipping. Transition lenses and other options can increase the price further, making the glasses a premium purchase that may be offset only by generous vision-insurance coverage.

Privacy concerns persist, as Meta continues to store voice recordings in the cloud and uses image data from multimodal features to train its AI models. Recent reports of a potential facial-recognition feature have heightened scrutiny, though Meta has not confirmed implementation.

Overall, the Optics line offers the most comfortable and feature-rich version of Ray-Ban Meta glasses for users who require prescription lenses, but the high cost and ongoing privacy debates may limit broader adoption.