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According to research data from Mellsenn XR, global AI smart glasses sales are projected to reach 1.52 million units in 2024, with the majority of sales coming from RayBan Meta smart glasses. After RayBan Meta’s spring 2024 launch, Chinese manufacturers will follow suit to enter the smart glasses market. However, RayBan Meta remains the main driving force, bolstered by solid distribution channels and growing user adoption. In addition, a new “all-in-one aviator model” will be introduced, as well as more AI smart glasses that “look like ordinary sunglasses,” accounting for 50% of global sales. Regionally, the Chinese domestic market constitutes the largest share (35%) of AI smart glasses, driven primarily by younger consumers who value trends, fashion, brands, and functionality. By late 2024, overseas AI smart glasses markets will be dominated by RayBan Meta, covering Europe, the Americas, Japan, Korea, and beyond, while continuing to expand worldwide. Overall, global AI smart glasses are expected to see a threefold increase in 2024 compared to 2023.
The potential for AI smart glasses in 2024 is vast. Upcoming products from Meta, Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, MUV, StarV, and other manufacturers that target the general consumer market represent significant opportunities. Many terminal (end-device) manufacturers are continuing to plan their next AI smart glasses releases. As AR smart glasses evolve—paired with large-model and AI voice-interaction technology—IAR = AI + AR smart glasses of the next generation will, after 2025, offer far more applications such as productivity tools, tutoring/guide features, collaborative interactions, and enhanced consumer experiences. At present, some RayBan Meta smart glasses are already using ChatGPT-based voice controls: commands are processed by AI, then projected onto the glasses’ lenses. This is the most feasible short-term AI+AR application.
It is estimated that global AI smart glasses sales will reach 3.5 million units by 2025, a 230% increase from 2024. Most of this growth will come from RayBan Meta smart glasses, while multiple smart glasses brands will continue to launch new models, including those from Xiaomi, Samsung, and others. More and more AI smart glasses will undergo iterative improvements in functionality, form, and interactive performance, moving toward AI+AR smart glasses.
Note: The data in this report is based on Mellsenn XR’s research on AI+AR smart glasses and does not include ordinary camera glasses or sunglasses with built-in cameras. The figures are not guaranteed to be precise and are for reference only.
© Copyright: Mellsenn XR. Article content and XR industry insights belong to Mellsenn XR.
Smart glasses not embedded with large AI models (e.g., early-generation glasses / smart glasses)
Projection-type AR glasses for movie viewing are excluded from the definition and statistics of AI smart glasses
These glasses incorporate AR functionality and large-scale AI model support. They may feature an all-in-one or split display design, along with voice interaction capabilities to enhance information display via AR.
Equipped with built-in cameras capable of taking photos and recording videos, along with AI-based image processing. They can be awakened by voice or AI assistant, and perform real-time analysis of captured or viewed scenes. They can also provide AI-powered assistance, recognition, and immediate feedback on what is being viewed.
Typical camera glasses that connect to large AI models, featuring AI-assisted capture, AI recognition, and voice interaction. Often designed with minimal visible hardware, such as hidden cameras in the frame or side arms, while retaining the external appearance of normal eyewear.
Source: Mellsenn XR. Text content reflects the researchers’ analysis.
Global AI smart glasses sales will reach 1.52 million units in 2024, primarily driven by RayBan Meta smart glasses. Quarterly sales are projected at around 410,000 units, with RayBan Meta launching an upgraded edition in spring 2024. Sales often surge in Q4 during the November 11 (Singles’ Day) and Black Friday shopping seasons, while domestic Chinese AI smart glasses brands will also cluster product releases and promotions that together exceed 100,000 units sold.
It is anticipated that global AI smart glasses sales in 2025 will reach 3.5 million units, a 230% increase over 2024. Most of this growth will come from RayBan Meta smart glasses, as multiple AI glasses brands introduce new models, including those from Xiaomi, Samsung, and other manufacturers.
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“Global AI Smart Glasses Annual Sales Statistics (in 10,000 units)”: 10 (2024 Q1) → 19 (Q2) → 34 (Q3) → 72 (Q4)
“Global AI Smart Glasses Sales Forecast (in 10,000 units)”: 2024: 152 → 2025: 350 → 2026: 700 → 2027: 1100 → … → 2030: 9000
In 2024, the Chinese domestic market for smart glasses is projected at 570,000 units, accounting for 37% of the global total. The main contributors are Huawei MUV, StarV, and other wearable AI smart glasses brands, and by 2025, the Chinese market is expected to represent 41% of global AI glasses sales.
With intensified competition in China’s smart glasses market in 2024, the key competitor is RayBan Meta smart glasses. RayBan Meta, featuring built-in cameras and AI voice interaction, reached sales of 140,000 units in Q4 2023. The strong consumer acceptance of RayBan Meta suggests that from 2025 onward, AR+AI smart glasses are poised for explosive growth.
RayBan Meta is expanding in China with certain AI voice functionalities adapted to local users. At present, RayBan Meta and some domestic AI smart glasses are gradually entering mainstream consumer awareness, supporting new fashionable use cases such as events, travel, and group photos, where AI-based analysis and automated photo capture add value.
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“2024 China Domestic AI Smart Glasses Sales (in 10,000 units)”: 10 (earlier) → 57 (full-year total)
“Global AI Smart Glasses Sales Pie Chart”: Overseas 63%, Domestic 37%
In 2024, AI smart glasses will gradually become mainstream, generally falling into three main categories:
Photo/Camera-Oriented Smart Glasses
AR+AI Integrated Smart Glasses
Standard AI Smart Glasses
Key points for 2024 AI smart glasses products and market developments:
The market will still be dominated by RayBan Meta and RayBan 5Meta, combining functionality and fashion. Secondarily, brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, MUV, StarV, and others in China will also contribute.
Meanwhile, AR lens technology is advancing. For instance, after EVEN in 2024, high-end smart glasses will offer stronger display and interactive features, making them more appealing to consumers.
Between late 2024 and 2025, global AI smart glasses will undergo rapid growth. Especially in Q4 2024, new products are anticipated that will boost overall market momentum. By 2025, global AI smart glasses sales are expected to reach 3.5 million units, a 230% increase over 2024.
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“2024 Global AI Smart Glasses by Category Comparison”: Standard AI, Photo AI, ARAI—3, 6, 6 (10,000 units) …
“Global Smart Glasses Sales Breakdown” Pie Chart: Photo-oriented: 14.3%, Standard AI: 9.7%, AR+AI: 76%, etc.
RayBan Meta and RayBan 5Meta represent second-generation smart glasses, evolving from basic camera features to fashion-driven functionalities, such as customizable patterns on the temple arms. They are integrated with Instagram and other video-centric platforms, and leverage broad “smart” ecosystem applications across industry cloud services.
By Q1 2025, RayBan Meta will gain broader acceptance in specialized markets, with the ability to switch to a “brick wall” or other fashionable effects on the glasses frame.
In Q2 2024, AI voice features and AR functionality will be further integrated. RayBan Meta can serve multiple scenarios—photo, video recording, navigation—to encourage user exploration and lift overall glasses sales.
Users can apply real-time artistic filters to captured footage, then upload or share with Instagram contacts. Balancing work and personal life, RayBan Meta addresses wide-ranging recording needs, with projected sales reaching 670,000 pairs.
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“RayBan Meta Smart Glasses Quarterly Sales (in 10,000 units)”: 2023 Q4: 21 → 2024 Q1: 17 → 2024 Q2: 32 → 2024 Q3: 35 → 2024 Q4: 68
Product images showing RayBan Meta and RayBan 5Meta, featuring multiple sunglass designs
Data source: Mellsenn XR. Content and XR industry insights belong to Mellsenn XR.