Oakley and Meta have launched the Oakley Meta Vanguard, a new range of performance-focused smart glasses that combine sports eyewear design with artificial intelligence, hands-free controls and fitness tracking features. The companies are positioning the product as part of a new “Performance AI” category, aimed at athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who want real-time data, video capture and audio functions built into eyewear designed for high-intensity use.
The Vanguard glasses blend Oakley’s sports optics with Meta’s AI-driven software, marking a push beyond lifestyle smart glasses into training and competition environments.
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Built for training and competition
Designed for rugged use, the Vanguard frames come with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Oakley’s Three-Point Fit system is used to maintain stability during movement, while three interchangeable nose pads — including low- and high-bridge options — allow for a more secure, customised fit.
The glasses feature Oakley’s wraparound PRIZM lens technology, which enhances contrast and colour clarity while shielding eyes from sun, wind and debris, making them suitable for cycling, running and other outdoor sports.
Fitness tracking with AI support
Meta’s AI assistant is integrated into the glasses, allowing users to access exercise data using voice commands. The AI assistant is linked to platforms like Garmin, allowing users to view data such as heart rate and pace without having to look at a phone or smartwatch.
A small LED indicator within the wearer’s peripheral vision provides visual cues during workouts, while post-activity performance summaries are available through the Meta AI app.
Camera, audio and battery features
The Vanguard includes a 12-megapixel front-facing camera with a 122-degree field of view, capable of recording up to 3K video. Users can capture slow-motion and hyperlapse footage, with adjustable stabilisation, using hands-free controls.
Open-ear speakers built into the frames deliver audio while keeping environmental awareness intact. According to the companies, the speakers are louder than earlier Oakley-Meta models. A five-microphone array is designed to minimise wind noise during calls and voice interactions.
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Battery life is rated at up to nine hours of general use or six hours of continuous audio playback. The charging case provides up to 36 additional hours, with a quick-charge option delivering around 50% capacity in 20 minutes.
India-specific features and pricing
For Indian users, the Meta AI app supports Hindi voice commands for calls, messaging and media control, along with UPI Lite payments via voice. A celebrity voice option featuring Deepika Padukone is also included.
The Oakley Meta Vanguard is available in four frame and lens combinations, including Black with PRIZM 24K and White with PRIZM Sapphire. In India, prices start at ₹52,300 and the glasses are being sold through selected optical retailers such as Sunglass Hut and LensCrafters.
