Meta is preparing to take a big leap in its wearable tech ambitions with a new, more advanced pair of smart glasses—codenamed Hypernova.
Starting at over $1,000—and possibly reaching $1,400—Hypernova represents Meta’s move into more premium hardware territory. But the steep price comes with a key upgrade: an integrated screen behind the lenses.
Unlike the previous model, which focused on voice control, photos, and videos, Hypernova will offer a heads-up display located at the bottom of the right lens. To view it, the wearer will need to glance downward.
The screen is expected to display notifications from Meta’s platforms, such as WhatsApp and Messenger. However, it won’t be an open ecosystem—there will be no app store. Meta intends to tightly control what these glasses can do, at least at launch.
Despite the futuristic upgrade, many of Hypernova’s features mirror the current Ray-Ban Meta glasses. Users can expect voice interaction with Meta’s AI assistant, music playback, and hands-free content creation through photos and video.
That said, the addition of a screen may expand how users interact with digital content, especially as Meta improves the software powering these experiences.
Beyond the screen, the glasses are rumored to feature upgraded cameras—described as a noticeable jump, similar to advancing two generations in smartphone tech. That means sharper photos, better video, and more precise augmented reality overlays.
Meta is also adding new controls. Hypernova will feature capacitive stems—turning the glasses’ arms into touch-sensitive surfaces—and a potential wristband controller, codenamed Ceres, is in the works to provide an additional input method.
The screen’s position at the bottom-right corner evokes comparisons to Google Glass, which placed its mini display in the top-right corner when it launched back in 2013. Meta appears to be refining that idea, hoping for a design people want to wear.
So far, the Ray-Ban Meta line has sold around 2 million pairs since its October 2023 debut. Meta aims to reach 10 million units sold annually by 2026, though it’s unlikely Hypernova will drive mass adoption at its price point. The company will reportedly continue selling more affordable models alongside the high-end line.
Looking further ahead, a dual-display model—featuring one screen per eye—is planned for 2027.
