Meta to unveil smart glasses without cameras at Connect

Meta Platforms is set to present new smart glasses at its annual Connect conference on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The lineup is expected to include camera-free models to address privacy concerns over AI hardware that can record people without consent.

According to The Information, the camera-free glasses will launch in two styles named Clubmaster and Burbank. Meta is also expected to present an updated version of its camera-equipped Meta Ray-Ban glasses and lighter augmented-reality glasses codenamed Phoenix. The moves follow Snap's recent announcement of its $2,195 Specs augmented-reality glasses.

Sales of Meta's smart glasses developed with EssilorLuxottica surpassed 7 million units last year, giving the company a leading position against Chinese rivals such as RayNeo and Xiaomi. However, recording capabilities have prompted venues in the UK to restrict their use and sparked a proposed class-action lawsuit in California alleging privacy violations during AI training, which Meta disputes.

Industry analysts note that removing cameras might still leave audio recording concerns and could reduce consumer demand. Linda Sui, founder of market research firm Smart Analytics Global, noted that removing cameras from glasses without a display makes product differentiation difficult compared to standard Bluetooth headphones.