Meta and Oakley Collaborate on AI-Powered Smart Glasses for Athletes

Meta Platforms Inc. has announced a partnership with sports eyewear brand Oakley to introduce the "Oakley Meta HSTN," a new line of AI-powered smart glasses designed specifically for athletes. This collaboration marks Meta's latest venture into the wearable technology market, following the success of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.

The Oakley Meta HSTN features a hands-free high-resolution camera, open-ear speakers, water resistance, and integrated Meta AI capabilities. The camera is centrally positioned on the frame to enhance balance and tracking accuracy during high-intensity activities such as cycling and running. The glasses are based on Oakley's existing Sphaera model, tailored to meet the demands of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

A limited-edition version of the Oakley Meta HSTN will be available for preorder starting July 11, 2025, at $499. Additional models, priced from $399, are set to launch later in the summer. The initial rollout will cover North America, Australia, and select European countries, with plans to expand to Mexico, India, and the United Arab Emirates by the end of the year. The product will debut at major sporting events, including Fanatics Fest and UFC International Fight Week.

This initiative builds upon Meta's ongoing partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of both Oakley and Ray-Ban. The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have sold millions of units since their launch, indicating strong consumer interest in AI-powered wearable devices.

The launch of the Oakley Meta HSTN positions Meta as a significant player in the AI-powered wearable device market. Competitors such as Snap and Google are also investing in similar technologies, indicating a growing trend towards integrating AI capabilities into wearable devices. For instance, Google has shown prototype Android XR glasses with augmented reality features, aiming for a commercial release next year.

The introduction of AI-powered smart glasses like the Oakley Meta HSTN raises several social and societal considerations. The integration of high-resolution cameras and microphones into everyday eyewear has sparked debates about privacy and surveillance. Critics fear that such devices could be used to record individuals without their consent, leading to potential ethical and legal challenges. The collection and storage of personal data through these devices necessitate robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access and misuse. Users and regulatory bodies are likely to scrutinize how companies like Meta handle this sensitive information.

For athletes, the Oakley Meta HSTN offers innovative ways to analyze performance and improve training routines. The ability to capture real-time data and footage can provide valuable insights, potentially revolutionizing coaching and athletic development.

Meta's expansion into the smart eyewear market reflects a strategic move to diversify its product offerings and tap into the growing demand for wearable technology. By entering the sports eyewear segment, Meta has the potential to generate significant revenue, especially if the Oakley Meta HSTN gains traction among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The collaboration with Oakley allows Meta to leverage an established brand in the sports industry, providing a competitive edge over other tech companies entering the wearable market. The production and distribution of smart glasses involve complex supply chain logistics. Meta's partnership with EssilorLuxottica could facilitate efficient manufacturing and distribution processes.

The Oakley Meta HSTN represents a significant advancement in wearable technology, merging Meta's AI expertise with Oakley's sports eyewear design. The collaboration underscores the growing trend of integrating AI into consumer wearables, with implications for privacy, data security, and athletic performance.