The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Ray-Ban and Facebook Release Snazzy Smart Glasses

By Matthew Denis Published September 15, 2021

Ray Ban-Stories in a classic Wayfarer frame. — Ray Ban-Stories in a classic Wayfarer frame. Image used with permission by copyright holder

Looking for style, comfort and a bit of magic in your sunglasses? Ray-Ban has now teamed up with Facebook to launch Ray-Ban Stories, smart shades that will never let you miss a photo again.

Recommended Videos

Appearing in iconic Wayfarer, Round, or Meteor frames, Ray-Ban Stories may look like traditional glasses, but take a closer look and you’ll notice two small cameras on either side of the lenses. Wearers can press a button and the glasses will begin recording whatever they are looking at.

Instant photo and video (for up to 30 seconds) let you capture spontaneous moments using the dual 5-megapixel cameras. A quick button press or a hands-free Facebook Assistant voice command — “Hey Facebook, take a photo” — lets you snap spontaneous moments. The first-person perspective footage allows anyone watching to be able to truly see the world from your eyes.

Related Guides

Ray-Ban Stories are also designed with everyone’s privacy in mind, helping device owners and photo subjects feel comfortable, safe, and informed. A capture LED lights up at the corner of the lens when cameras are on to notify nearby people that photography or recording is taking place. Users can set privacy settings via the companion app and turn the glasses’ tech functionality off via a switch inside the arm.

After you’ve captured pics and/or video, the “Facebook View” companion app enables you to browse through footage, edit, and enhance everyday memories captured on Ray-Ban Stories and share the content via Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, or any other social media app.

A built-in Bluetooth, 3-microphone audio array allows you to listen to your favorite media, music, or podcast from any phone app as well as take calls from your Ray-Ban Stories. And a portable charging case keeps the glasses charged for up to three days.

Ray-Ban Stories is far from the first product with these capabilities. In 2017, Snapchat tried a similar product, called “Snapchat Spectacles” and in 2015, Google Glass premiered, but its lack of a signature look failed to entice consumers, ending up in Sweden’s “Museum of Failure” just two years later.

Starting at $299, you can choose from 20 combinations of frames and lens styles. Ray-Ban Stories are available now at select Ray-Ban stores, on Ray-Ban.com and will be rolling out to retailers in 6 countries soon, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Italy, Ireland, and Australia. They are also available with Polarized (starting at $329), Transitions ($379), and prescription lens (varied pricing).

Read More: Ray-Ban Sunglasses Are up to 50% Off Right Now

Former Freelance Writer

Matt Denis is an on-the-go remote multimedia reporter, exploring arts, culture, and the existential in the Pacific Northwest…

Topics

Fashion & Style

Breitling unveils updated Superocean Heritage with Hawaiian surf inspiration

Wave rider: Breitling's superocean heritage update celebrates hawaiian surf heritage with kelly slater

Breitling superocean sea watch

Breitling refreshes its Superocean Heritage collection for the first time since 2017, introducing updated sizes, the new B31 manufacture movement, and a limited edition created in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater. This revision balances vintage 1950s style with modern elegance and pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture through special partnerships.

The Superocean Heritage line originally launched in 1957 as Breitling’s dive watch, combining stylish design with underwater capability. Early models like the Ref. 1004 time-only and Ref. 807 chronograph featured spear and arrow hands, anodized rotating bezels, and compact proportions—appealing to those who valued both aesthetics and function.

Fashion & Style

G-Shock’s original DW-5000c gets mighty full metal reissue

Steel evolution: G-shock's full metal 5000 series celebrates iconic dw-5000c heritage

Casio G-shock original product shot

G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is the first Full Metal model to feature the original’s signature red, blue, and yellow accents—each color carrying meaning: red for “the passion to take on challenges,” blue for “excellent water resistance,” and yellow for “outstanding shock resistance.” Previous Full Metal versions used different color schemes, so this release is especially significant for longtime G-Shock fans.
The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
Alongside this release, G-Shock also introduces the GM-B2100SD-1C, which applies the same color theme to the first Full Metal watch’s round case. This two-part launch demonstrates G-Shock’s commitment to honoring its roots while exploring new expressions within the Full Metal series.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
This release illustrates how classic designs can evolve through new materials and technology, preserving the core qualities that made them legendary and appealing to both longtime G-Shock enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the brand’s origins.

Fashion & Style

Chopard honors Sir Stirling Moss with Mille Miglia limited edition

Racing heritage: Chopard's stirling moss tribute and gts upgrade showcase lucent steel excellence

Chopard Mille Miglia press shot

Chopard honors racing driver Sir Stirling Moss with a Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph. At the same time, the brand updates its popular GTS Power Control with a new in-house movement. Both watches, released in 2025, use Chopard's Lucent Steel alloy, which is known for having the whitest, brightest steel finish in fine watchmaking.
The Stirling Moss tribute watch recognizes the Mercedes-Benz driver whose 722 300 SLR made racing history. The 40.5mm chronograph features a brass dial with a silver opaline finish, recalling the matte silver of Moss's "Silver Arrows" era Mercedes-Benz. Only 70 pieces exist, each individually numbered and priced at $10,800. The watch comes with a period-appropriate racing strap, featuring large punched holes and matching stitching.
Despite the high price, Chopard equips the chronograph with an ETA 2892 base movement rather than one of its own calibers. The movement is 3.75mm thick, runs at 4Hz, and offers a 54-hour power reserve. It is also COSC certified. Some collectors might expect an in-house movement at this price, but the 2892 is known for its reliable engineering, and many enthusiasts prefer it over alternatives like the 7750.
The Mille Miglia GTS Power Control 2025 Race Edition is even more appealing, as it finally receives Chopard's in-house 01.02-M movement. This caliber, measuring 28.8mm wide and 4.95mm thick, features cutouts reminiscent of cooling vents and uses color schemes inspired by car engines. It provides a 60-hour power reserve via a rotor with multiple openings.
A technical review notes, "This movement provides a big upgrade for the MM GTS, and it offers much movement for the price." The 43mm case houses a galvanized salmon dial with a circular satin finish. Grade X1 Super-LumiNova, with a black tint, creates a distinctive look against the salmon background during the day.
The GTS is priced at $7,630, with only 250 pieces available. It offers strong value, considering the in-house movement and Lucent Steel construction. The power reserve display, located between 8 and 10 o'clock, is styled like a car fuel gauge, reinforcing its appeal to car enthusiasts through practical design elements.
Both watches demonstrate Chopard's dedication to automotive history. They show how different approaches—tribute chronographs and technical upgrades—can appeal to various collector tastes. The Lucent Steel construction ensures both models display Chopard's renowned bright finish, which must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The contrast in pricing and features makes the GTS Power Control especially attractive for enthusiasts seeking the quality of an in-house movement at a more accessible price.