Meta cuts smart glasses prices to $800, surprising consumers

In an effort to make augmented reality technology more accessible, Meta has decided to reduce the price of its upcoming smart glasses, expected to be named Celeste. Originally speculated to cost above $1,000, the new starting price will be around $800 when the glasses debut in the fall of 2025. This revelation came from Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, who shared insights in his Power On newsletter. This is a significant cut that places them within reach of more consumers but still positions them higher than existing smart glasses from competitors. The Meta Celeste glasses represent a substantial advancement in augmented reality capabilities with an integrated display that is more effective at connecting with Meta's AI systems. Users can anticipate features such as real-time language translations for conversations, allowing a more immersive and practical application of augmented reality in everyday situations. While the current Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarers are popular and start at $299, the new Celeste pair signifies a notable technological leap. However, the design may come with compromises. The Celeste glasses are reportedly heavier than the current Ray-Ban models, weighing around 70 grams compared to the lighter 48 to 51 grams of the earlier models. The increased bulk might affect user perception, particularly for those who appreciate the traditional style of sunglasses. It remains to be seen how effectively the Celeste glasses will resonate with fans of the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarers who may be cautious about the shift in design and weight. Meta's foray into augmented reality is not new; the company had introduced a similar product, the Orion, which they claimed to be the most advanced AR glasses ever made. The Orion featured a translucent display that made content visible in the user's direct line of sight. In contrast, the Celeste glasses will offer a more discreet experience, using a head-up display located at the corner of the user's field of vision. This difference could appeal to users who prefer a less obtrusive method of accessing information. Furthermore, interactions are expected to be enhanced via a wrist or arm band that can interpret hand gestures, facilitating a natural way to control the glasses. As the launch approaches, scheduled for the Meta Connect event on September 18 and 19, 2025, there is speculation about whether the $800 price tag will include additional accessories such as a controller, along with considerations for customization options like prescription lenses. These factors could further influence the final cost for consumers. Overall, the new pricing strategy and innovative features suggest that Meta has recalibrated its approach to make its augmented reality offerings more competitive in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.