Can smart glasses take photos and video hands-free?
Short answer
Yes. The Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) records 3K video and 12MP photos from your point of view, from $379. Samsung's Galaxy Glasses are reportedly due in November 2026.
Which products can do it?
- Meta Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2)Yes
Records 3K video and 12MP photos, with up to eight hours of battery per Meta.
Good to know: Engadget got a bit over 5.5 hours of continuous music. Point-of-view framing takes practice.
- Samsung Galaxy GlassesAnnounced
Samsung's Android XR glasses reportedly have cameras, speakers, microphones and Gemini, and work with Galaxy phones.
Good to know: Launch reported for November 2026; no confirmed price or specs.
Why it matters
People want to capture moments without holding up a phone, on walks, with kids or while cooking.
Not proven yet
How bystanders feel about it; the capture LED is the only signal to people nearby.
How we know (3 sources)
Review of the Ray-Ban Meta (2nd gen), from $379: noticeably better battery (a bit over 5.5 hours of continuous music in testing; Meta says up to eight hours typical), 3K video. Live translation helped the reviewer follow a walking tour in Argentina, though it's meant for back-and-forth conversation and drains the battery fast.
Read the sourceReview of the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2): a modest upgrade but still the top pick. 3K video (up from 1080p), 12MP photos, up to eight hours of battery, double the original. Starts at $379; Transitions lenses $459; first-gen still sold from $299. No display.
Read the sourceSamsung's Android XR Galaxy Glasses are reportedly launching in November 2026 (per The Korea Herald). They work with Galaxy phones and reportedly have cameras, speakers, microphones and Gemini. Frames with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. No confirmed price; Samsung targets a "reasonable premium" range.
Read the source