Meta revealed in 2021 that it had partnered with sunglasses brand, Ray-Ban, to create the ultimate smart-glasses called ‘Ray-Ban Stories’. From this month on, the glasses will be available in more European countries and come with new features. A big one is being able to record up to 60-second videos instead of only 30 seconds.
The story behind it
Ray-Ban Stories may look classy, but they pack some high-end tech too. Like the dual integrated 5MP cameras along with a three-microphone array, for those days when your hands are just too full to capture photos or videos. All pics and videos are synced to the Facebook View app (iOS and Android). You can share your captures on any social media platform or messaging app.
Previously, Ray-Ban Stories were limited to recording only 30 seconds of footage. From April, you’ll be able to record up to 60 seconds by adjusting your settings on the Facebook View app. Voice commands will also be available in Italian and French. The Facebook View app will also be available in French, Italian, Dutch, and German.
The glasses are able to check your battery and storage stats and read them out to you if you’re feeling lonely and need to hear another voice. That’s currently only available in English, but it will soon be available in French and Italian.
New looks?
This April release will also see the option of more colour combinations for your pair of Ray-Ban Stories. These include round shiny black with grey transitions, round shiny black with brown transitions, wayfarer matte black with grey transitions, and wayfarer shiny black with brown transitions. You’ve got 28 variations to choose from, although they all sound rather similar. But if you still can’t pick, feel free to visit Ray-Ban’s Instagram Shop to virtually try them on via the Spark AR effect.
Starting at €330 (R5,500) Ray-Ban Stories will be available online and in selected retail stores in Austria, Spain, and Belgium from today. And it’s hitting France on 14 April.
According to Meta people love to use smart glasses for skydiving, recording their adventures and travels, as well as music festivals. Hopefully, people stick with that and don’t use them for other nefarious activities.