In the past, wireless audio was all about noise cancellation—how effectively earbuds could block out surrounding sounds. While active noise-cancellation (ANC) earbuds will always have their place, recent trends show that many users appreciate being aware of their environment. This shift has led to the emergence of a market for open earbuds.
However, what if I told you there’s a superior alternative that offers more than just audio playback? Enter smart glasses, which I believe are the best option for open-ear audio.
I’ve praised smart glasses numerous times, but one of their most underrated features is their impressive audio quality. I personally use a pair of Meta Ray-Bans almost daily. While not my only choice, they are my go-to when I want to stay aware of my surroundings. Those who try the Meta Ray-Bans are often surprised by their audio performance. While they may not be ideal for noisy environments, they excel in quieter settings. With Spotify integration and an efficient onboard audio assistant, they are quite functional.
Smart glasses also shine in voice calls. I use my Meta Ray-Bans extensively for calls, and switching back to traditional wireless earbuds feels like a downgrade. The audio quality for both the caller and receiver is significantly better, thanks to superior microphones compared to other open-ear options.
While I appreciate Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds for their sound quality, their microphone performance is subpar. In contrast, Meta’s Ray-Bans provide a more balanced experience for calls, allowing me to move freely while talking.
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Beyond audio, smart glasses can take pictures and record videos. Although the AI capabilities of Meta are still a work in progress, you get more than just music playback with these glasses.
There are limitations, such as the tinted lenses which can be impractical indoors. However, advancements like electrochromic lenses are emerging, allowing users to adjust tint levels easily.
When comparing costs, high-end open earbuds like Bose typically retail for around $299, the same price as Meta’s Ray-Bans. While Bose may offer slightly better audio, smart glasses provide a versatile package—audio, a camera, and sunglasses—all in one.
Though smart glasses aren’t yet the revolutionary product many hope for, they offer solid functionality for today’s needs, especially for listening. If you’re looking for open-ear audio that lets you stay engaged with your surroundings, smart glasses may be your best choice.
SOURCE: GIZMODO
