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T3
Technology
Matt Kollat

Meta’s AI glasses just got smarter – and Europe’s getting some of the best upgrades

Oakley’s Meta HSTN in use.

Meta is rolling out a fresh software update for its AI-powered smart glasses, including the Oakley Meta HSTN, making them feel less like a tech demo and more like something you’d actually want to wear every day.

Starting 16 December, the update introduces new music controls, smarter AI interactions, and tighter integration with fitness platforms, with several features tailored specifically for European users.

Music to my ears

One of the most practical upgrades is expanded language support for music-related voice commands.

Users in Europe can now control Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and other supported services using French, Italian, German, Spanish and Portuguese voice commands.

Hands-free music control has always been one of the strongest use cases for smart glasses, and this update makes it feel far more inclusive.

(Image credit: Matt Kollat)

Meta is also introducing what it calls its first "multimodal AI music experience," combining visual recognition with Spotify’s music intelligence.

Using a feature called Look & Play, you can simply look at a scene and say, “Hey Meta, play a song to match this view,” and the glasses will generate a soundtrack that fits what you’re seeing.

For now, this feature is only available in English, but it’s one of the more ambitious ideas Meta has put into its glasses so far.

Fewer words, faster actions

Voice shortcuts are coming to Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, allowing users to trigger actions with a single word rather than starting every command with “Hey Meta”.

Saying “photo” or “music” is enough to get things moving, which should make a real difference during activities like running or cycling.

This feature launches in English initially, with more languages planned, and it directly addresses one of the biggest friction points with voice-controlled wearables (having to talk too much).

(Image credit: Matt Kollat)

Fitness fans get a notable upgrade, too. When paired with a compatible Garmin watch, Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses can now create personalised run and bike workouts using voice commands alone.

You can ask Meta AI to start a ride, build a timed run, or set a pace-based session without touching your watch or phone.

This feature will also roll out to Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta glasses, though it’s English-only for now.

With improved language support, deeper music integration and genuine fitness utility, Meta’s AI glasses are starting to look less like a novelty and more like a long-term companion.

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