Meta Introduces Aria Gen 2: The Next-Generation Smart Glasses

Meta has officially introduced its Aria Gen 2 smart glasses, a research-centric wearable that builds upon the foundation of Project Aria, initially launched in 2020. Unlike consumer-focused smart glasses, the Aria Gen 2 is designed exclusively for researchers and industry partners. With improved sensors and extended battery life, the device aims to advance studies in machine perception, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics. Meta plans to distribute these smart glasses to select research partners in the coming months.

Enhanced Features and Technological Upgrades

The Aria Gen 2 smart glasses come equipped with a suite of upgraded sensors that enhance their functionality and data collection capabilities. Some of the key features include:

• Advanced Imaging Systems – The device features an RGB camera and 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DOF) Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) cameras, which improve spatial awareness and tracking.

• Eye Tracking and Spatial Audio – Integrated eye-tracking cameras and spatial microphones help capture user interactions and environmental sounds with greater precision.

• Motion and Environmental Sensors – The glasses include Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), a barometer, a magnetometer, and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capabilities for accurate motion tracking and location detection.

• New Sensors for Health and Voice Recognition – A significant addition in Aria Gen 2 is the inclusion of two new sensors located in the nosepad:

  • Photoplethysmography (PPG) Sensor – Monitors heart rate, potentially paving the way for health-related research applications.

  • Contact Microphone – Helps differentiate the wearer’s voice from background noise, improving speech recognition and interaction capabilities.

Redesign for Lightweight and Portable Use

One of the most notable changes in Aria Gen 2 is the removal of a built-in display, making it more lightweight and compact. Weighing just 75 grams, the device is designed for ease of use and portability, featuring foldable arms for convenient storage. The decision to eliminate the display aligns with Meta’s focus on research applications, ensuring that the glasses serve as a data collection tool rather than a consumer entertainment device.

Targeting Research and Development

Unlike the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which are tailored for mainstream users, the Aria Gen 2 is specifically developed for research institutions, AI developers, and industry partners. Meta has already partnered with leading organizations, including:

• BMW – Exploring potential applications in autonomous vehicle technology.

• Carnegie Mellon University – Investigating advancements in machine perception.

• IIIT Hyderabad and University of Bristol – Conducting research on AI-driven spatial computing.

Meta is also actively seeking additional research collaborators to expand the project’s scope and impact. By equipping developers with cutting-edge tools, the company aims to overcome current limitations in augmented reality (AR) and advance AI-based perception technologies.

On-Device Processing and Extended Battery Life

A key improvement in the Aria Gen 2 is on-device processing, which allows the smart glasses to handle complex machine perception tasks without relying on cloud processing. These tasks include:

• Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)

• Eye and hand tracking

• Speech recognition

Powered by Meta’s custom-designed silicon, the device can operate for six to eight hours on a single charge, making it practical for long research sessions.

The Future of AI-Driven Smart Glasses

As Meta continues to explore the intersection of AI, machine learning, and wearable technology, the Aria Gen 2 serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the development of future augmented reality (AR) devices. The integration of advanced sensors and processing capabilities will accelerate research in AI, robotics, and spatial computing, potentially shaping the next generation of smart wearables.

Conclusion

Meta’s Aria Gen 2 smart glasses mark a significant evolution in research-focused wearable technology. With its enhanced sensors, lightweight design, and powerful on-device processing, the device is set to play a vital role in the future of AI, AR, and robotics research. As the company collaborates with leading institutions and industry partners, the Aria Gen 2 has the potential to drive groundbreaking advancements in machine perception and human-computer interaction.