Meta Tightens Grip on Smart Glasses Market as Global Shipments Soar 139%

AI smart glasses may be getting more attention, but new data from Counterpoint Research suggests the category is still in its early stages. The tech market research firm reported that the smart glasses market grew 139% year-over-year in the second half of 2025, compared with 2024. And Meta’s AI smart glasses portfolio gets credit for the growth. 

Meta AI smart glasses lead market growth

Both Gen 1 and Gen 2 Ray-Ban AI Glasses drove seasonal demand. Meta accounted for 82% of smart glasses shipments thanks to its new products, and its smart glasses were the best-selling. Both Gen 1 and Gen 2 Ray-Ban AI Glasses drove seasonal demand, followed by the Oakley Meta HSTN and Oakley Meta Vanguard, which accounted for over 30% of the last quarter of 2025. 

CNET editors are big fans of the Meta AI glasses for reasons beyond the AI capabilities. The Ray-Ban Gen 2 glasses are appreciated for their improved battery life and video quality and for maintaining the same shape as earlier generations, so you can use the old lens if you’d like. 

Read more: Meta Ray-Bans, 6 Months Later: The Best AI Companion Happens to Be Camera Glasses

AI glasses are becoming popular, but pricey 

AI smart glasses accounted for 88% of total smart glasses shipments during the second half of 2025, while demand for simple smart audio glasses was far lower. The demand for AI glasses stems from Meta’s AI glasses and from Chinese vendors, including Li Auto, Rokid and Bolon. 

The market growth for smart glasses isn’t expected to stop. Counterpoint says smart glasses shipments are expected to continue strong growth this year, with plans for new brands and for others to expand. But price will become a concern in 2026.

The average price of AI glasses has risen quickly — reaching $347 in the first half of last year. Yet, the average price went up to $360 in the second half. And prices could rise even further if the current memory shortage persists. 

Customers and experts weigh in

Counterpoint also found that Meta customers generally gave positive feedback on video performance for the Gen 2 Meta AI Glasses, and the Oakley Meta Vanguara received positive feedback for its design, as well as its photography and audio features. On the other hand, users say there are still improvements needed in battery performance. 

However, CNET editors are big fans of the Meta AI glasses for reasons beyond the AI capabilities. The Ray-Ban Gen 2 glasses are loved for their improved battery life and video quality, and for keeping the same shape as the older generations, so you can use the old lens if you’d like. 

Watch this: My Life With Meta Ray-Ban Displays: A Weird Wild Future

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