Meta Platforms is recalibrating its hardware roadmap and doubling down on wearable AI, even as it navigates reported layoffs within its Reality Labs division. The company is now said to be in discussions with EssilorLuxottica to significantly ramp up production of its AI-powered Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, signaling that demand for AI wearables may be outpacing earlier expectations.
According to the latest reports, Meta wants to lift annual output to 20 million units by the end of 2026. That’s a major step up from the previous goal of 10 million units, and it reflects growing confidence that smart glasses could become one of the most important consumer devices in the next wave of AI-powered tech. If interest continues to climb, production could even scale higher to 30 million units a year, though that would depend on sustained demand and further planning.
While no final agreement has been confirmed, the talks underline Meta’s intent to push AI-first hardware into the mainstream. By pairing Meta’s software and AI capabilities with EssilorLuxottica’s global eyewear expertise, the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have positioned themselves as a practical entry point into hands-free AI—blending familiar fashion with voice features and everyday usability.
At the same time, the reported Reality Labs layoffs highlight the pressure Meta faces to streamline spending and prioritize projects with clearer near-term momentum. The contrast is notable: Meta appears to be tightening its belt in parts of its VR-focused organization while accelerating investment in AI wearables that could reach far larger audiences.
If Meta follows through on this expanded production plan, 2026 could be a defining year for AI smart glasses, with Ray-Ban Meta glasses potentially moving from a niche gadget to a mass-market product.
