Technology companies often promise innovation with each new product release, yet many devices end up being mere iterations of their predecessors. The Meta Oakley Vanguard’s, priced at $789, seemed destined to join this category of expensive yet forgettable tech. However, contrary to expectations, these smart glasses have proven to be a standout product in a crowded market.
Initially met with skepticism due to Meta’s background as a social media giant rather than a hardware manufacturer, the Vanguard’s have defied expectations. They blend the functionality of smart glasses with the aesthetics of premium sports sunglasses, avoiding the pitfalls of previous attempts like Google Glass.
First Impressions: Aesthetic and Build Quality
The Meta Oakley Vanguard’s are first and foremost Oakley sunglasses, with smart features seamlessly integrated. This distinction is crucial as they avoid the “computer on your face” look that plagued earlier smart eyewear. Instead, they resemble high-quality sports sunglasses, appealing to consumers who value style and functionality.
The build quality is impressive, with Oakley’s attention to detail evident in every aspect of the design. The frames are available in several colorways, and the partnership with Oakley brings genuine sports performance DNA, making them suitable for both style and athletic use.
The consumer interest is palpable, with many curious about the glasses’ performance. This curiosity indicates a market ready for smart glasses that don’t compromise on aesthetics.
The Camera: Capturing Life’s Moments
One of the standout features of the Vanguard’s is the 12MP camera, which, while not a replacement for a smartphone, offers effortless usability. The ability to capture moments without interrupting activities is a significant advantage. Whether it’s a sunrise during a morning run or family moments at the beach, the first-person perspective adds a unique intimacy to the captured content.
The Vanguard’s allow users to be present in the moment while still capturing it, a feature particularly appreciated by parents and athletes.
Audio Quality: A Pleasant Surprise
The audio quality of the Vanguard’s exceeds expectations. Open-ear audio in sunglasses might seem like a compromise, but the sound is rich enough for music and clear enough for podcasts and calls. They have replaced earbuds for many users during runs and rides, providing environmental awareness without sacrificing audio enjoyment.
Despite limitations in bass and some sound leakage at higher volumes, the audio performance is commendable, especially for outdoor activities where awareness of surroundings is crucial.
Fitness Integration: A Smart Move
Meta’s decision to partner with established fitness platforms like Garmin and Strava is a strategic one. Instead of reinventing the wheel, the Vanguard’s enhance the user experience by integrating seamlessly with these platforms. Users can overlay workout data onto videos, making it easy to share content with relevant metrics.
The Garmin integration is particularly well-executed, while Strava and Apple Health also offer valuable functionality. This approach allows the Vanguard’s to excel in capturing workouts without attempting to replace dedicated fitness trackers.
Meta AI: A Work in Progress
While the Meta AI integration is a feature of the Vanguard’s, it remains underdeveloped. The voice interface is clunky, and the utility doesn’t yet justify its use. However, the glasses’ core features—camera and audio—are strong enough to stand alone, making the AI features more of a bonus than a necessity.
Battery Life and Practicality
The Vanguard’s offer a battery life of 4-6 hours of mixed use, which is sufficient for most outings. The charging case, though bulky, provides additional charges, making it practical for multi-day trips. Users need to be strategic for all-day adventures, but for typical use, the battery life is adequate.
This first-generation product defies the usual “wait for V2” advice, delivering a functional and impressive experience right out of the gate.
Conclusion: A New Benchmark for Smart Glasses
The Meta Oakley Vanguard’s have set a new standard for smart glasses, effectively combining style, functionality, and technology. They capture authentic moments with ease and deliver quality audio, making them a valuable tool for parents, athletes, and anyone looking to experience life without the barrier of a phone screen.
For those seeking smart glasses that are genuinely good, the Vanguard’s are worth every penny. They represent a successful first step in a market that has long awaited a product that truly delivers.
As Meta continues to refine its offerings, the Vanguard’s stand as a testament to the potential of smart eyewear, proving that sometimes, being wrong about a product can be a pleasant surprise.
