The world of smart glasses is about getting a major upgrade. Meta has had smart glasses on the market for a while. However, they’ve largely been limited to a few core functions. Well, that’s all set to change, as Meta is now opening its AI-powered wearable platform to outside developers, a move that could unlock a whole new universe of apps and capabilities for its smart glasses.
Meta announced the move at their Connect event today . The basis of everything will be the Meta Wearables Device Access Toolkit . Through this developer tool, third-party companies can now build custom experiences that tap into the unique features of Meta’s smart glasses. Of course, these apps could access the built-in sensors and audio of the smart glasses. It’s a significant shift, transforming the glasses from a niche gadget with limited integrations into a more versatile device with a wider range of potential uses.
Meta opens smart glasses to developers, starting with Disney and Twitch
Meta is already working with a handful of early partners to show off what’s possible. Twitch, for example, is building livestreaming capabilities. This could allow creators to share their point of view in real-time without having to hold a phone. Disney is also on board, exploring an app for visitors to its theme parks that could use the glasses’ AI assistant to provide information about rides and attractions as they walk through the park. In the world of sports, a golf app called 18Birdies is working on an integration to give players club recommendations and yardage stats hands-free. The potential for new experiences and possibilities is virtually unlimited.
The firm is looking to build a thriving tech ecosystem around its hardware. Notably, many of these new experiences appear to work with Meta’s non-display glasses. This means that even owners of the first-generation Ray-Ban Meta glasses could see new functionality added to their devices.
Broad launch in 2026
The toolkit will be available as a limited developer preview before a broader release in 2026. This move aligns with the launch of Meta’s new lineup of smart glasses, including the second-gen Ray-Ban Meta glasses, the Oakley Meta Vanguard sports glasses, and the new Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, which feature a video overlay.
