Meta is rolling out a software update for its smart glasses that introduces Conversation Focus, a feature to amplify voices in noisy environments. The update also adds AI-powered Spotify integration for context-based playlists. These enhancements are available first to early access users on Ray-Ban and Oakley models.
Meta announced a year-end software update for its lineup of smart glasses, fulfilling a promise made in September at the Meta Connect developer conference. The key addition is Conversation Focus, which uses the glasses' beam-forming microphones to directionally amplify the voice of the person in front of the wearer while filtering out background noise in crowded or noisy settings. "You’ll hear the amplified voice sound slightly brighter, which will help you distinguish the conversation from ambient background noise," Meta explains. Users can activate it with voice commands like "hey Meta, start Conversation Focus" or by setting a tap-and-hold shortcut.
The V21 update also introduces a multimodal AI feature in partnership with Spotify. By saying “hey Meta, play a song to match this view,” the glasses analyze what the user is looking at—such as holiday decorations—and generate a personalized playlist based on the user's taste and the scene. This capability draws comparisons to upcoming features from Google for its glasses next year.
The rollout targets Meta Ray-Ban glasses (both first- and second-generation models) and Oakley Meta HSTN frames, starting with early access participants before gradually reaching all users. For the Oakley Meta Vanguard shades, aimed at athletes, the update enables single-word voice commands like "photo" to snap a picture or "video" to start recording, helping users "save some breath" during runs or bike rides. Additional features include voice command shortcuts and programmable workouts integrated with Garmin watches.
Similar to FDA-approved hearing assistance glasses from Nuance Audio, Conversation Focus aims to improve accessibility in social situations. The firmware updates may take time to propagate, potentially delaying availability for some users.
