Smart glasses have faced challenges in gaining widespread acceptance beyond novelty status since the introduction of Google Glass in 2013. The absence of a standout application or compelling features that differentiate them from smartphones has raised doubts about their ability to go mainstream.
Dual 5-Megapixel Cameras and Intuitive Controls in Ray-Ban Stories
According to the story by Slashgear, with technology giants like Apple and Meta (formerly Facebook) investing in mixed reality, smart glasses may become the next sought-after device. Meta's smart glasses offering, Ray-Ban Stories, has garnered less attention than their virtual reality headset, the Quest.
Through a partnership with renowned eyewear brand Ray-Ban, Ray-Ban Stories offers a stylish appearance that distinguishes it from predecessors like Google Glass. The first-generation Stories present consumers with three frame options and various color choices to cater to diverse preferences, adding an element of personalization to the user experience.
Despite ongoing software updates aimed at refining the glasses and enhancing their functionality, the feature set of Ray-Ban Stories remains limited. Each pair includes dual 5-megapixel cameras that allow users to capture photos and videos with voice commands or taps.
Spotify Tap's Expanded Availability Enhances Music Streaming Experience
The glasses also feature open-ear audio and the "Hey Facebook" smart assistant, facilitating basic controls and communication via social media platforms owned by Meta, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
The convenience of charging the glasses using a compact case adds to their appeal. However, the latest update, announced on May 23, holds potential for significant improvements to the intelligence and capabilities of Ray-Ban Stories, as explained further in an article by Forbes.
Meta's recent update introduces several noteworthy enhancements to Ray-Ban Stories, expanding the availability of existing features to a wider user base. For instance, previously limited to iOS users, Spotify Tap now enables Android users to seamlessly stream music from their Spotify accounts with a single tap.
Unlocking Seamless Interaction: Enhanced Voice Control Capabilities in Ray-Ban Stories
Moreover, French and Italian users of WhatsApp can now benefit from hands-free messaging and calling capabilities, including encrypted communications, aligning their experience with English-speaking users.
The most significant improvement lies in the voice control capabilities, a pivotal aspect for smart glasses to achieve greater usability. With the latest update, all wearers of Ray-Ban Stories can directly reply to messages, create new ones, and answer or decline calls, all through intuitive voice commands.
Voice controls have been refined to offer a more conversational and responsive experience, enabling users to send messages effortlessly. Meta provides examples such as "Ask Martha if she wants to come to the party" or "Tell David I love him" to illustrate the glasses' improved understanding of natural language.
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Ray-Ban Stories' Voice Commands Extend to Calls, Texts, and Messaging Apps
These seamless voice commands extend across calls, texts, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp, enhancing the hands-free user experience.
Starting in June, Meta will require users to create Meta accounts to access Ray-Ban Stories and the accompanying Facebook View app, replacing the previous reliance on a Facebook account.
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