Ray-Ban, Meta launch $799 smart glasses that require mandatory in-store demos to buy

Ray-Ban and Meta have launched the Display & Neural Band, a $799 smart glasses system that projects text and images directly onto the lens while being controlled through subtle finger gestures via a companion wristband. The device represents a significant leap in wearable AI technology, featuring real-time translation capabilities and requiring mandatory in-store demos at Best Buy before purchase—a strategic shift toward tactile retail experiences for high-tech eyewear.

What you should know: The Display & Neural Band combines advanced visual projection technology with gesture-based controls to create a hands-free computing experience.

• The glasses use micro-projector and waveguide technology to display text, images, and AI responses directly on the right lens, creating an overlay that appears to hover in front of the wearer’s eyes.
• The Neural Band wristband uses electromyography sensors (which detect muscle activity) to capture subtle finger movements, allowing users to navigate menus and select commands without voice prompts or touch controls.
• Unlike previous Ray-Ban smart glasses, this model can only be purchased after completing an in-person demo at Best Buy locations.

Key features: The glasses pack enterprise-grade capabilities into a consumer-friendly design with extended battery life.

• Real-time translation and captioning capabilities enable seamless communication across language barriers.
• A 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera captures hands-free photos and video, while open-ear audio handles calls and music.
• Battery life extends up to six hours of active use, with a portable charging case providing roughly 30 hours total.
• Frames are available with sun, clear, and transition lenses, all prescription-compatible.

The retail strategy: Meta is emphasizing in-person experiences over online sales to overcome consumer hesitation toward advanced wearable technology.

• Best Buy serves as the exclusive big-box retailer, with trained associates guiding customers through hands-on demos at select locations nationwide.
• The mandatory demo requirement before purchase marks a deliberate departure from Meta’s previous online-first approach to mixed-reality products.
• This tactile retail strategy aims to help consumers understand the technology’s practical applications before committing to the $799 investment.

Why this matters: The launch signals Meta’s commitment to mainstreaming smart eyewear by making the technology more accessible and demonstrable to everyday consumers, potentially accelerating adoption of AR-enabled wearables in the mass market.