Meta Glasses AI Fails, But Mic System Shines

Meta's latest generation of smart glasses, the Gen 3, brings incremental improvements rather than revolutionary changes. Users can expect extended battery life, now up to nine hours, and a superior microphone array. These glasses feature a dedicated button for Meta's AI assistant, alongside a lighter, slimmer design available in numerous frame and color options.

The Meta Nova model, priced at $299, offers much of the same software as its predecessors, featuring 12-MP cameras capable of 3K video. While the camera housing has been reduced, privacy concerns regarding their potential misuse as surveillance tools remain. Features like 'Conversation Focus' are currently exclusive to higher-end Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses.

Unfortunately, the built-in AI assistant continues to underperform, struggling with basic queries about the glasses' own features. Integration with Meta's Muse AI is planned for later this year, which may offer more utility. Despite these drawbacks, the glasses capture quality photos and videos with a more secure indicator light, though the overall value proposition for the $299 price point is questionable when compared to previous models.