Meta is expanding its product lineup with a new range of frames created in partnership with Oakley. The Oakley Meta HSTN (pronounced HOW-stuhn) will be available in multiple variants, similar to Meta’s existing smart glasses. Meta first hinted at a new partnership earlier in June, and rumors that the company was moving beyond its current frames were reported by Bloomberg in January.

Despite speculation that the Oakley glasses would feature a camera embedded in the bridge of the frame, these initial models retain the lens on one side and an LED privacy light on the other. The ultra-wide 12MP camera can capture footage in 3K, compared to the 1080p video capability of the Meta Ray-Bans. In addition to taking POV video calls, shooting photos, and livestreaming what you see, the camera can be used to answer questions about what you’re seeing with the help of Meta AI.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated on Threads that these frames, based on Oakley’s HSTN style, are “built for action.” They may be designed to be more durable than Meta’s older models, although they have the same IPX4 water resistance rating. They feature Prizm and Prizm Polarized lens technology from Oakley, designed to protect wearers’ eyes from ultraviolet light.

The battery is rated for eight hours of typical use on a single charge (twice that of the Meta Ray-Bans) and up to 19 hours on standby. With the included charging case, you should be able to charge the Oakley Meta HSTN glasses from zero to 50 percent of battery capacity in 22 minutes, and to 85 percent in 45 minutes. The case, which is not water-resistant, is said to deliver up to 40 additional hours of on-the-go charging.

The new frames have open-ear Bluetooth speakers, five onboard microphones, and speakers for talking to Meta AI, as well as the ability to take calls, send messages, and play music from your phone. There are touch controls on the side of the frames where you can adjust volume and more.

Meta has also been introducing live translation features for its smart glasses. The company notes that the Oakley Meta HSTN glasses can also enhance accessibility. You’ll be able to send messages and take photos hands-free. Meta’s AI will be able to describe what the camera is seeing. Additionally, wearers will be able to connect to the Be My Eyes network and receive assistance from sighted volunteers.

Meta and Oakley describe these as “Performance AI glasses.” You’ll be able to ask Meta AI for contextual information that might be helpful in the moment, such as wind speed to adjust for while playing golf.

Meta’s partnership with Oakley shouldn’t come as a surprise, given that Oakley is owned by EssilorLuxottica, the same fashion conglomerate that owns Ray-Bans. The companies
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