Meta just released a major software update for its Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta smart glasses. With the new “v21” software version, users will notice practical improvements in how the glasses handle both sound and music.
Takeaways 🚀
✅Amplifies voices in noisy environments..
✅Spotify integration for personalized soundtracks.
✅Easy volume control via swipe.
✅Gradual rollout through Early Access.
✅Enhances conversations and music experiences.
Moreover, this update focuses on two main areas: helping you hear conversations in loud places and integrating smarter music choices through Spotify.
Here is a breakdown of the new features and how they work.
In particular, this update focuses on two main areas: helping you hear conversations in loud places and, additionally, integrating smarter music choices through Spotify.
To help you understand what’s new, here is a breakdown of the updated features and how each one works.
Hear Clearly With Conversation Focus
Background noise often makes conversations difficult. However, the new “Conversation Focus” feature tackles this problem directly. As a result, it helps you hear the person standing in front of you, even in chaotic environments.
How It Works
The glasses use built-in open-ear speakers to boost specific sounds. Furthermore, when you talk to someone, the software identifies their voice. Next, it amplifies that voice slightly above the background noise.
As a result, this creates a clear separation between your conversation and the ambient sound. Therefore, you can focus on what matters without straining your ears.
Where to Use It
Consequently, this feature works well in several common scenarios:
- Busy Restaurants: Hear your dinner partner over clattering dishes and other diners.
- Public Transit: Chat with a friend while commuting on a loud train or bus.
- Live Events: Listen to someone speak during a concert or DJ set without losing the vibe of the room.
Easy Controls
To make adjusting the volume simple, you just need to swipe the right temple of the glasses. Additionally, you can change the settings directly on your paired device. As a result, you can instantly match the volume boost to your specific environment.
Meanwhile, Meta is rolling this feature out now to users in the Early Access Program within the US and Canada.
Smart Music With Spotify Integration
Furthermore, the v21 update also introduces a new way to control music. Specifically, Meta partnered with Spotify to build a unique experience that seamlessly mixes artificial intelligence with your surroundings.
Music That Matches Your View
Now, you can simply use your voice to request music based on what you see. For example, just look at something and say, “Hey Meta, play a song to match this view.”
First, the glasses use their camera and computer vision to analyze the scene. Next, they connect with Spotify’s algorithms to find a track that fits the mood.
Examples of how this works:
- Look at a classic vinyl album cover to play that specific record.
- Look at a festive holiday decoration to start a holiday playlist.
- Look at a rainy window to queue up relaxing, moody tracks.
Therefore, this feature creates a personalized soundtrack for your day, allowing you to enjoy music tailored to your environment without ever needing to scroll through apps on your phone.
Availability
Additionally, this music feature supports English commands. It is currently available in multiple countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, and Japan.
