Sales of the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have surpassed 1 million units, making them the most popular product in the non-display smart glasses segment, according to a report by Counterpoint Research.
These smart glasses are the first to use Qualcomm’s AR1 Gen 1 platform for wearable devices, featuring the third-generation Hexagon NPU neural processor. This enables advanced functionality such as Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Key specs include 32GB of built-in storage, a 12-megapixel RGB camera, five microphones, and two speakers. Powering the device is a 160 mAh battery integrated into the frame, supplemented by a 3034 mAh charging case. Despite this, the glasses remain lightweight at just 49 grams, offering comfort for extended wear.
Cost Breakdown and Profit Margins
According to Counterpoint Research’s BoM (bill of materials) analysis, the base version of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, priced at $299, has a production cost of about $135. This translates to a gross profit margin of 46.5% for EssilorLuxottica and Meta. The Qualcomm AR1 Gen 1 platform accounts for 37.7% of the production cost, with mechanical components and the battery making up 13.9% and 5.6%, respectively.
Features and Market Position
Although the Ray-Ban Meta glasses lack a display—often a significant driver of costs—they provide an engaging user experience through Meta AI, which powers voice-activated interactions and other features.
Industry Impact
Analysts at Counterpoint Research note that the success of Ray-Ban Meta is encouraging the development of lightweight smart glasses that integrate AI functionality both locally and via the cloud to enhance user interactivity. Some competitors have already achieved weights under 40 grams, while maintaining competitive pricing, signaling an evolution in the smart glasses market toward more affordable and user-friendly designs.
