Smart glasses have been trying to break into the mainstream for years, often stumbling on issues of practicality, design, or just plain usefulness. The newest contender, the Oakley Meta Vanguard, aims to change that by blending Meta’s tech with Oakley’s signature sporty aesthetic. But does this collaboration create a winning combination, or does the Vanguard lean a little too heavily into its athletic DNA?
Setting Up for Success (or Failure)
Like clockwork, setting up a new pair of Meta smart glasses has become a familiar ritual. First, comes the connecting of Instagram, WhatsApp, and Spotify accounts. Then, I dive into the Bluetooth settings, navigating the slightly complex process to enable Meta AI to announce incoming calls and messages. After this, tweaking the video settings to the highest quality is essential. And finally, for a touch of personality, I switch Meta AI’s voice to “English (UK)” to enjoy the virtual company of “Judi Dench.” These steps become second nature, preparing me for the unique experiences these glasses offer.
Design and Comfort: An Athlete’s Paradise?
Oakley is known for its performance eyewear, and the Vanguard certainly embodies that. The design is aggressive, sporty, and undeniably Oakley. The frame is sturdy and feels like it could withstand some serious activity. However, this focus on sportiness comes at a cost. The bold design might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more subtle or versatile pair of smart glasses that can transition seamlessly from the gym to a business meeting.
The comfort level is decent, but the fit is geared towards an active lifestyle. The glasses stay securely on your face during movement, which is great for running or cycling, but can feel a bit tight and uncomfortable for prolonged everyday wear. If you’re primarily looking for smart glasses to wear during workouts or outdoor activities, the fit might be perfect. But for all-day wear, the sporty design can feel a bit restrictive.
Aesthetics vs. Everyday Wearability
The core issue here is balance. While the sporty aesthetics are certainly striking, they may limit the Vanguard’s appeal to a niche audience. These glasses scream “athlete,” which can be great for some, but alienating for others who want a more versatile look.
Meta’s Smart Features: A Solid Foundation
Beneath the sporty exterior, the Meta Vanguard inherits the smart capabilities of its predecessors. This includes features like photo and video capture, Meta AI integration, and audio playback. These features function reliably, allowing you to snap photos and videos hands-free, ask Meta AI questions, and listen to music or podcasts without needing headphones.
The voice commands work well, and the integrated speakers provide decent audio quality for calls and media consumption. The photo and video quality is also respectable, though it won’t replace your smartphone camera. However, the real strength lies in the convenience of having these features readily available on your face.
Meta AI: The Untapped Potential
Meta AI continues to be a promising feature, although its full potential remains unrealized. While it can handle basic tasks like answering questions, setting reminders, and making calls, it still lacks the advanced capabilities that would truly make it a game-changer. As Meta continues to develop its AI technology, we can expect to see even more useful and intuitive features integrated into these smart glasses.
Battery Life and Performance: A Decent Run
The battery life of the Oakley Meta Vanguard is comparable to other smart glasses in its class. You can expect to get a few hours of moderate use before needing to recharge. Heavy use of features like video recording and Meta AI will drain the battery faster. The charging process is straightforward, and a full charge takes around an hour.
The performance is smooth and responsive, with no noticeable lag or glitches. The glasses connect easily to your smartphone via Bluetooth, and the connection remains stable. The overall experience is polished and user-friendly.
Sporty to a Fault: Final Verdict
The Oakley Meta Vanguard is a solid pair of smart glasses that excels in its intended niche: active lifestyles. The sporty design and secure fit make them ideal for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. However, the aggressive aesthetics and slightly restrictive comfort might not appeal to everyone. If you prioritize performance and style for your workouts, the Vanguard is an excellent choice. But if you’re looking for a more versatile pair of smart glasses for everyday wear, you might want to consider other options.
Ultimately, the “sporty to a fault” label accurately describes the Vanguard. While it delivers on its promise of blending Meta’s technology with Oakley’s athletic DNA, its design choices limit its broader appeal. It’s a great option for a specific audience, but not necessarily the best choice for everyone.
