AI Glasses Sales Surge by 210%: Meta Dominates, New Species Become Martyrs

March 3, 2025, 23:16, Guangdong

In 2024, the AI hardware ecosystem witnessed a remarkable surge, with AI-powered glasses emerging as a standout category. According to Counterpoint Research's latest data, global shipments of AI glasses surged by 210% in 2024, compared to 2023. This explosive growth can be attributed to the immense popularity of models like the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which have been a game-changer in the AI hardware space.

The Rise of AI Glasses and Meta's Dominance

The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, launched in 2023, have been a key driver of this growth. These glasses, which retail for $299 overseas, have found favor with consumers for their affordability, lightweight design, and practical AI features that offer genuine assistance in daily activities. Their success is also bolstered by Meta's global influence and collaborations with EssilorLuxottica, which have expanded offline distribution channels.

Counterpoint Research's data reveals that the Ray-Ban Meta alone accounted for 60% of global smart glasses shipments in 2024. This dominance is further accentuated by the limited competition in the space, allowing Meta to carve out a significant niche. The company's ambitious plans for 2025, including the release of new models like the "Hypernova" with advanced AI capabilities, indicate a commitment to maintaining this leadership.

The Surge of New Players and the "Hundred Glasses Battle"

Encouraged by Meta's success, a multitude of brands have entered the AI glasses market. The upcoming MWC 2025 is anticipated to showcase a renewed "Hundred Glasses Battle," with numerous models vying for attention. Chinese manufacturers have been particularly active, introducing products like Baidu's "Xiaodu" AI glasses, Rokid Glasses, and the Lei Bird V3, each offering unique features and competitive pricing.

The expansion of the AI glasses market has also attracted the attention of major smartphone and tech companies. Samsung is expected to release its "Galaxy Glasses" in the third quarter of 2025, equipped with a Qualcomm AR processor and Sony IMX681 sensor. Apple is reportedly exploring the feasibility of AI glasses, while Xiaomi's entry into the market is also anticipated. This influx of new players is not only intensifying competition but also driving innovation and expanding the market's potential.

The Challenge of Differentiation and the Importance of Software

Despite the hardware similarities among AI glasses, differentiation lies in software and ecosystem integration. Many AI glasses rely on standardized components, such as Qualcomm processors and Sony sensors, leaving limited room for hardware differentiation. The true battleground is in software, where understanding of the device, human-computer interaction, and content ecosystems will determine success.

Rokid, for instance, has integrated third-party services like Alipay and DingTalk into its glasses, broadening their utility. Brands with established software ecosystems, such as Samsung and Xiaomi, can integrate AI glasses seamlessly with their existing products, creating a more cohesive user experience. This integration will be crucial in attracting consumers and ensuring long-term engagement.

The Quest for the "iPhone" Moment

The AI glasses market remains in an exploratory phase, with most products still learning from Meta's success and adapting to local market needs. The critical question is whether AI glasses can become an essential product for consumers, akin to how the iPhone revolutionized smartphones. This requires not just technological innovation but also the development of a compelling use case that resonates with a wide audience.

The ability to offer a more affordable price and a more mature user experience will also significantly impact the market's growth and the diversity of the user base. As the market evolves, the real test for AI glasses will be their capacity to deliver continuous value and attract consumers in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The Road Ahead

The AI glasses market's rapid growth and Meta's leadership have set the stage for an exciting future. However, the market's expansion will depend on overcoming hardware homogenization and fostering software innovation. The next few years will be pivotal in determining whether AI glasses can achieve widespread adoption and become a staple in the tech ecosystem.