Meta is planning to release a new pair of smart glasses without built-in cameras this autumn, as the company responds to growing scrutiny surrounding privacy concerns and the recording capabilities of wearable devices, The Information reported on Tuesday.
The glasses, internally code-named Luna, are expected to feature six built-in microphones that would allow users to interact with Meta’s artificial intelligence chatbot and Muse, the company’s recently introduced consumer AI agent, according to people familiar with the matter cited by The Information.
Unlike Meta’s existing smart glasses, the new model would not include cameras. The removal of cameras could make the device more suitable for environments where recording is restricted or where people have concerns about being filmed without their knowledge.
Luna is also expected to include a button on the side of the glasses that would provide quick access to Meta AI, The Information reported. The device would use speakers similar to those found in Meta’s current smart glasses models.
Meta could introduce the glasses at its annual Connect developer conference, which is scheduled to take place next Wednesday and Thursday. The company is reportedly targeting October for shipments, although Meta has not publicly confirmed the launch timetable.
Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The reported launch comes as smart glasses become an increasingly important part of Meta’s hardware strategy. The company has been expanding its wearable technology offerings while adding artificial intelligence features that allow users to interact with digital assistants through voice commands.
Meta’s existing smart glasses combine cameras, microphones and speakers, allowing users to take photographs and videos, make calls, listen to audio and interact with Meta AI. The camera-free Luna model would represent a different approach, focusing on voice-based artificial intelligence features rather than visual recording.
The addition of six microphones could support voice interaction while allowing users to access AI services without taking out a smartphone. A dedicated physical button would provide another way to activate Meta AI.
The reported timing also comes as Meta increases its focus on AI agents. Muse is part of the company’s broader effort to develop consumer-facing AI systems capable of carrying out tasks and assisting users across different activities.
Smart glasses have attracted growing interest from technology companies because they can provide hands-free access to digital services. At the same time, their recording functions have raised questions about privacy, consent and the use of wearable cameras in public and private settings.
A camera-free product could allow Meta to address some of those concerns while retaining features such as voice-based AI assistance and audio playback.
The company is expected to provide more details about its hardware and artificial intelligence plans at Connect if the reported launch goes ahead. Shipping is currently expected to begin in October, according to The Information.
