In 2024, Apple's Vision Pro has not made a splash, while Meta's smart glasses have gained popularity with a surge in downloads.
On Tuesday, according to a recent report by Goldman Sachs analyst Jack McFerran, the download volume of applications related to Meta's smart glasses has seen explosive growth. Sensor Tower's app download data shows that downloads of the Meta View companion app increased by over 200% year-on-year in October. This data indicates a high level of consumer interest in Meta's smart glasses.
The price advantage may be a key competitive factor, as the Ray-Ban smart glasses launched in collaboration with Ray-Ban are priced between $300 and $379, compared to Apple's Vision Pro headset, which is priced at a staggering $3,500. Although Meta's smart glasses have relatively simple functions, mainly adding cameras, speakers, and large language models to the classic Wayfarer frame, lacking true AR/VR capabilities, consumers seem to prefer this more affordable option.
McFerran personally tried the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses at Westgate in Oxford and stated in the report:
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I have a good overall impression of these glasses and can imagine using them to listen to podcasts while walking my dog, participating in morning conference calls, or using them while skiing or cycling. However, I am skeptical about the frequency of use for their photo-taking function or the AI feature to find the nearest Pret or Starbucks.
</blockquote>
Compared to Apple, Meta seems to have gained a leading edge in the wearable technology space, with plans to add a display to the Ray-Ban glasses as early as next year.
According to media reports citing informed sources, Meta plans to add a screen to the $300 sunglasses produced and sold in collaboration with eyewear group EssilorLuxottica. Informed sources indicate that the upgraded Ray-Ban glasses may be released as early as the second half of 2025, with the small display potentially used to show notifications or replies from the Meta virtual assistant.

META

The price advantage has become a key factor driving consumers to choose Meta glasses

- In 2024, Meta's smart glasses have gained significant popularity, with app downloads increasing over 200% year-on-year, according to Goldman Sachs analyst Jack McFerran.  
- The affordability of Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, priced between $300 and $379, contrasts sharply with Apple's Vision Pro, which costs $3,500, leading consumers to prefer the more budget-friendly option despite its simpler features.  
- Meta is reportedly planning to add a display to the Ray-Ban glasses in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, with a potential release in late 2025, enhancing their functionality in the wearable tech market.  

Meta's AI glasses are booming, Goldman Sachs: In October, related app downloads surged 200% year-on-year