Meta and Oakley bring AI to sport: HSTN smart glasses tested

The update of the hardware platform has allowed the introduction of video recording in 3K format at 30 frames per second, a qualitative leap compared to the 1080p standard of past models. This performance increase is supported by a significantly larger 230 mAh battery, integrated into the HSTN mount. The new battery solves the autonomy problems that penalized the first Ray-Ban models, equipped with a 152 mAh cell that struggled to exceed three hours of continuous use and which prevented the activation of the firmware for higher resolution videos. The autonomy declared for the new models reaches eight hours, supported by a redesigned and more robust charging case, capable of offering up to six full charges.

From the point of view of the user experience, the technical sector remains consistent with the second generation of Meta devices. Image and video capture is entrusted to a single 12-megapixel sensor positioned on the left side, with a 100-degree field of view. Although daytime shots and good light conditions are sharp, performance in dark environments still shows the structural limitations of the sensor, especially when compared to the technological evolutions of today’s smartphones. The audio component relies on a system of five microphones for the cancellation of environmental noise and directional stereo speakers integrated into the temples.

The on-board software sees a progressive maturation of the functions linked to Meta AI, which gains in speed and precision in responses and simultaneous translation. The real novelty of the period is the opening of the platform to third-party developers through the release of the Meta Wearables Device Access Toolkit, a move intended to expand the ecosystem of applications beyond the basic functions of messaging, calls and music playback. The list prices reflect the technological increase, positioning the HSTN model starting from 439 euros, with upward variations depending on the choice of lenses, including photochromic versions capable of adapting to ambient brightness.