Weekend bike rides are a way to reset after a long week. But the more gadgets you bring, the less freedom and enjoyment you get. Ray-Ban Meta solves this problem by combining a camera, headphones, voice assistant, and sunglasses into one device.
All-in-One Convenience
Instead of separate headphones, sunglasses, and a phone for taking photos, one smart device is now enough. Meta reports millions of units sold, and interest among cyclists keeps growing. The company is even planning a collaboration with Oakley to release a version tailored for athletes.
Comfort on the Go
Ray-Ban Meta looks like a regular stylish pair of sunglasses (such as the Wayfarer style) with transition lenses. They protect eyes from the sun and dust and fit reasonably well under a bike helmet. A standout feature is the built-in camera that lets users quickly snap photos or videos with a button press—no need to pull out a phone. The image quality isn’t perfect but good enough to capture moments that would otherwise be missed.
Open-ear speakers built into the arms allow for music or podcast listening without blocking surrounding sounds. The audio quality is surprisingly good. There’s also a voice assistant that can identify buildings, trees, or answer questions mid-ride, adding a layer of interaction without distracting from the road.
Flaws and Limitations
Despite the convenience, the glasses are not perfect. They can slip down the nose on bumpy terrain, and the thick frame can partially obstruct the view—especially in a forward-leaning riding position. Sport sunglasses typically avoid this with thinner frames and adjustable nose pads.
Functionality is also limited. While basic tasks like taking photos or pausing music work well, more complex interactions still require pulling out a phone. Spotify integration is unstable—sometimes the assistant plays the wrong music or nothing at all. Compatibility with iPhones is restricted due to Apple’s limitations. Integration with apps like Strava or Garmin is still missing.
AI Isn’t Quite There Yet
The AI assistant, although heavily marketed, is still underwhelming. It sounds robotic, and its answers can be inaccurate. During tests, it misidentified car models and tree types. Live video queries with the AI didn’t work smoothly and felt unreliable.
Potential Is There
Despite its flaws, Ray-Ban Meta is one of the most promising examples of smart glasses that actually add value to everyday activity. With improved design, better AI, and broader app integration, it could become a must-have for cycling and active lifestyles.
