Meta is significantly expanding the functionality of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, aiming to establish the device as a serious contender in the emerging hands-free computing market.Unveiled at CES 2026, the updates focus on features for content creation and everyday use, moving beyond basic notifications with the introduction of air-based text input and a built-in teleprompter [[1]]. Despite strong demand, Meta has delayed the European and Canadian rollout, citing supply chain limitations as the company continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence infrastructure to support these advancements [[2]].
Meta is expanding the capabilities of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, adding features designed to appeal to content creators and enhance everyday usability. The updates, unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, aim to move the device beyond simple notifications and into a more versatile, hands-free computing experience – a space previously explored by Google Glass but now reimagined with a focus on social connectivity.
One of the most significant additions is the ability to respond to direct messages using a new text input method. Users wearing Ray-Ban Display can now “write” messages in the air with their hands, which are then translated into text on the glasses’ display, eliminating the need for a phone or keyboard. This functionality leverages the Meta Neural Band, a wearable bracelet, for gesture recognition. The feature will initially be available in early access on WhatsApp and Messenger.
For video creators, Meta is introducing a teleprompter function. This allows users to upload notes from their phones, which are then displayed as scrolling text directly on the glasses’ lenses. The Meta Neural Band can be used to navigate through the text cards. The teleprompter feature will be rolled out in phases, beginning this week.
Meta also announced an update to its Pedestrian Navigation feature, which provides turn-by-turn directions directly within the wearer’s field of vision. Currently available in a limited number of cities, the service will expand to include Denver, Portland, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas.
The Ray-Ban Display can project information like text messages, Instagram Reels, maps, and other data onto the right lens, offering a hands-free alternative to smartphone use. The glasses are available in two sizes and two colors, and come with transition lenses as standard, though custom dark lenses are not currently an option.
Originally slated for release in Europe – including the United Kingdom, France, and Italy – as well as Canada earlier this year, Meta has delayed the launch in these markets. The company cited “unprecedented demand and limited inventory” as the reason for the postponement. WhatsApp and Spotify integration further enhance the glasses’ utility.
