Meta expands Ray-Ban smart glasses features: real-time translation and more

Meta has officially announced an expanded rollout of several new features for its Ray-Ban smart glasses, including real-time translation, support for sending messages and making calls via Instagram, and the ability to interact with the Meta AI assistant based on what the user is looking at.

Meta first revealed the real-time translation feature during the Meta Connect 2024 conference in October and began a limited rollout in some countries in December. Starting today, this feature is available to all users in markets where Ray-Ban Meta glasses are sold.

The translation feature allows users to have conversations with people speaking English, French, Italian, or Spanish, with instant audio translation available in the user's preferred language through the glasses' built-in speakers. This feature can be used offline if a language pack has been downloaded in advance, making it practical for international travel.

The company is also preparing to introduce additional features, including Live AI, which will enable the Meta AI assistant to observe user actions for more natural conversations. This feature is expected to launch soon in the United States and Canada.

Additionally, the glasses will soon support sending and receiving messages, as well as images and audio or video calls via Instagram, similar to existing support for WhatsApp, Messenger, and messaging apps on iOS and Android.

Meta has begun expanding support for audio applications outside the United States and Canada; however, using the Meta AI assistant to request audio playback or information will remain exclusive to users who have set English as their virtual language.

Meta confirmed that the Meta AI assistant, which launched in the UK at the beginning of the month, will be available in all supported European countries starting next week.

The company plans to launch its smart glasses soon in Mexico, India, and the United Arab Emirates, although no official date has been specified.