Ray-Ban glasses produced by Facebook and EssilorLuxottica have been designed to allow users to capture photos and video, listen to music, take calls, and access some Facebook services hands-free. The smart glasses utilize cameras, speakers, microphones and a companion smartphone app to provide these capabilities. The glasses connect via Bluetooth to Android or iOS smartphones and use the Facebook View app as the interface.
What are Ray-Ban Stories glasses?
Ray-Ban Stories glasses are smart glasses created through a partnership between Facebook and sunglasses company EssilorLuxottica. The glasses have built-in 5MP cameras to take photos and 30-second videos, speakers to listen to music or take calls, and 3 built-in microphones for voice commands and calls. The glasses connect via Bluetooth to the Facebook View app on a user’s smartphone to access features.
Partnership between Facebook and EssilorLuxottica
Facebook partnered with EssilorLuxottica, the maker of Ray-Ban and Oakley sunglasses, to produce the Ray-Ban Stories glasses. Facebook wanted to create smart glasses with the style and appearance of regular sunglasses. EssilorLuxottica provided the design and manufacturing expertise to produce fashionable glasses integrated with technology.
Features
Key features of Ray-Ban Stories include:
- Dual integrated 5MP cameras to capture photos and videos
- Open-ear speakers with spatial audio to listen to music, podcasts and calls
- 3 built-in microphones for calls and voice commands
- Touch panel controls on the glasses for camera, calls, music
- LED light indicator to show when recording
- Snapdragon processor to power the glasses
- All-day battery life with included charging case
- IPX4 water and sweat resistance rating
- Customizable frame styles and lens options
- Facebook View app (for iOS and Android) to view and share content
What can you do with Ray-Ban Stories glasses?
Ray-Ban Stories glasses allow users to take photos and videos, listen to music and take calls through the glasses via a connected smartphone. Key uses include:
Take Photos and Videos
The dual integrated 5MP cameras can be used to take photos by pressing the button on the glasses or using Facebook View app voice commands. Video capture up to 30 seconds is also supported. Photos and videos are stored in the Facebook View app gallery to view, edit and share.
Listen to Music and Podcasts
The open-ear speakers allow users to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks and more from their smartphone library hands-free. Volume can be adjusted via swipe gestures on the glasses.
Make and Receive Calls
With 3 built-in microphones, users can take phone calls directly through the glasses. Call notifications will appear on the smartphone and users can answer via the glasses. Voice commands are also supported.
Use Augmented Reality Effects
Special AR effects can be applied to photos and videos taken with the glasses via the Facebook View app. This includes 3D effects, filters, and more.
Utilize a Voice Assistant
Voice commands can be used to take photos/videos, control music playback, and more. Users can leverage their smartphone’s voice assistant through the glasses.
How do Ray-Ban Stories glasses work?
Ray-Ban Stories connect via Bluetooth 5.0 to the user’s iOS or Android smartphone. The Facebook View app powers the glasses and provides the interface to access features. Photos/videos are stored on the app.
Connectivity
The glasses connect to the smartphone via Bluetooth 5.0. Initial setup requires downloading the Facebook View app and pairing the glasses to the phone. Once paired, the glasses will automatically connect when worn.
User Interface
User interaction is handled through the touch panel on the glasses, voice commands, and the Facebook View app. Users can swipe to adjust volume, press to capture content, issue voice commands, and more.
Storage
Captured photos and videos are stored locally on the glasses and transfered to the Facebook View app gallery via Bluetooth. No content is stored on Facebook servers. The glasses have up to 500MB of usable storage.
Audio and Camera Quality
The glasses capture 5MP still images and 720p video at 30fps. Audio is processed using beamforming for voice calls and spatial audio renders music realistically. Quality is designed for short social sharing.
Battery Life
Ray-Ban Stories provide up to 6 hours of continuous usage per charge. The included charging case provides up to 3 full charges for 18+ hours of use before needing to charge via USB-C. Quick charge provides 50% in 30 minutes.
What apps work with Ray-Ban Stories glasses?
The primary app for Ray-Ban Stories is the Facebook View app. This provides access to the glasses’ features and gallery. Other compatible apps include:
Facebook View App
This companion app is required for iOS and Android to connect the glasses, view/share content, and access features. Photos, videos and more are stored here.
Content taken with the glasses can be shared directly to Facebook from the View app. Facebook authentication is required.
Photos and videos from the View app gallery can also be shared to Instagram Stories and Feed. An Instagram login is required.
The WhatsApp plugin for View app allows sharing photos and videos directly into WhatsApp chats and groups.
Spotify
Users can listen to Spotify playlists, albums and more through the glasses via Bluetooth audio streaming.
Assistant Apps
Voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant can be accessed on iOS and Android for hands-free commands.
What are the privacy concerns with Ray-Ban Stories?
As internet-connected cameras, Ray-Ban Stories glasses raise potential privacy concerns. However, Facebook and Ray-Ban emphasize privacy protections:
No Facial Recognition
Facebook states the glasses do not support facial recognition or identity linking. The cameras are outward facing.
Capture LED Indicator
A white LED light is visible when photos/videos are being recorded to alert others.
Limited Audio Capture
Audio is only captured with photos/videos when the camera is active. There is no persistent listening or recording.
Local Storage
No captured content is stored or shared to Facebook servers. All media stays local on the glasses and smartphone app.
Transfer Opt-In
Users must actively choose to transfer photos/videos to the app gallery and share to social media. Nothing is posted automatically.
Clear Public Use Policy
Facebook provides expectations for responsible use in public and respecting privacy laws. Users must follow local regulations.
How much do Ray-Ban Stories glasses cost?
Ray-Ban Stories start at $299 USD which includes the glasses, case, cable, and Facebook View app access. Lens options and frame styles can increase the price up to $379 USD.
Base Models
The starting price for Ray-Ban Stories is $299 and includes:
- Round or Meteor frames
- Clear or sun lenses
- Charging case and cable
- Access to Facebook View app
Other Frame and Lens Options
Other popular Ray-Ban frame styles are available for Stories:
- Wayfarer – $299
- Meteor – $339
- Wayfarer Large – $379
Gradient and polarized lens upgrades add $20-50. Prescription lenses can also be ordered starting at $100 added cost.
Add-Ons
Additional Ray-Ban Stories accessories include:
- Portable Charger – $89.99
- 3 Extra Charging Cases – $59.99
- Polarized Lenses – $50
Where to buy Ray-Ban Stories glasses
Ray-Ban Stories are currently only available directly from Ray-Ban in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Italy and Australia. They can be purchased online through Ray-Ban.com or at select Ray-Ban stores.
Ray-Ban Website
The primary way to purchase the smart glasses is through the Ray-Ban website. All models, lenses, and prescription options are available for order at Ray-Ban.com.
Ray-Ban Stores
Select flagship Ray-Ban retail stores will also carry Ray-Ban Stories models. Availability may vary by location. Try-on and in-store purchases are available.
Other Online Retailers
Ray-Ban states Stories will only be sold through Ray-Ban.com and stores at launch. No other authorized dealers or retailers will have the glasses yet.
Carriers
Ray-Ban Stories will not be available through wireless carriers. The glasses connect via Bluetooth to smartphones, not cellular networks.
Initial impressions and reviews
Early reviews of Ray-Ban Stories have highlighted the fashionable design and social media sharing capabilities while noting some performance drawbacks:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish Ray-Ban design | Expensive starting price of $299 |
| Good photo/video quality for glasses | Audio lacks bass and can sound dull |
| Convenient direct social sharing | Limited app ecosystem support |
| Hands-free listening to media | Diminished clarity with prescription lenses |
| Decent battery life with charging case | Doesn’t excel at any one task |
Overall the glasses are considered a good first-generation product with room for improvement as smart glasses advance further. They can be convenient for short videos and photos, but don’t yet replace phones.
Conclusion
Ray-Ban Stories represent an early entry into mainstream consumer smart glasses. While they may appeal to some early adopters, their limited capabilities and high price will likely curb mass adoption for now. As the technology matures and expands over time with future generations, the appeal and utilities will increase for a larger audience. But for light social media users wanting hands-free moments, Ray-Ban Stories provide a fashionable option. They deliver on core capabilities like photos, videos and calls with ease of use and iconic styling.