September is shaping up to be a blockbuster month for technology enthusiasts. While the spotlight is on flagship smartphone launches like Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series, Meta appears ready to surprise the market with the debut of its next-generation smart glasses, codenamed Hypernova. Unlike Meta’s earlier Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, which focused primarily on fashion and camera functions, Hypernova is expected to push deeper into augmented reality (AR) with a built-in display inside the lens.
Meta Hypernova Price Drop: A Strategic Move
Originally, reports suggested that the Hypernova glasses would cost around $1,400, making them a luxury gadget. However, the latest leaks indicate that Meta could price the device at around $800—nearly half of the earlier estimate. While still pricier than Meta’s Ray-Ban lineup, this aggressive pricing strategy signals the company’s intent to expand adoption and bring more users into its AR ecosystem. Optional upgrades such as prescription lenses or premium styles are likely to increase costs.
Expected Features: A Glimpse of the Future
The Hypernova Smart Glasses are rumored to feature:
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A discreet AR display inside the lens, visible only to the wearer.
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Real-time notifications, mini apps, maps, media, and messaging.
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Meta’s “semg wind” controller, allowing users to navigate through subtle hand movements and gestures.
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Touch controls along the frame for seamless interaction.
This blend of functionality aims to deliver convenience without the bulk of full-fledged AR headsets.
Analyst Take: A Stepping Stone to Bigger AR Dreams
Tech analysts believe that while Hypernova won’t represent Meta’s final vision for AR—rumored to culminate in advanced Oran Glasses—it serves as a crucial stepping stone. The success of the Ray-Ban Smart Glasses has already proven that consumers are open to wearable tech that looks like everyday eyewear but packs futuristic features.
The key question remains: Will consumers see enough value in paying $800 for smart glasses that sit between stylish wearables and full AR headsets?
Meta seems willing to bet big that the answer is “yes.”