Zuckerberg announces launch of Ray Ban Aviator Meta Glasses in honor of Gloria Steinem: "Women deserve to see too"
PALO ALTO, California — In a product announcement thrilling to both women and Top Gun fans alike, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on Wednesday the release of a new iteration of the company's AI smart glasses. The Ray Ban Aviator style lenses, available starting Saturday, were created as a tribute to the late women's rights crusader Gloria Steinem, who passed away last week at the age of 92.
Steinem was a celebrated journalist, author, and feminist organizer known for her dedication to activism and equality for women. An iconic figure, she was almost never seen without her signature oversized aviators.
When explaining the inspiration behind Meta's new release, Zuckerberg cited Steinem's past statements emphasizing fashion as a tool for rebellion and individuality. He added "The glasses' built-in camera and personal speakers will allow us to really tune into how users are expressing themselves." When asked about possible data leak concerns, he responded, "Don't worry about that" and then with a wink "It won't happen again."
The new glasses are expensive, but Meta argues that the $1,920 steep price tag holds a special meaning. Their press release noted that the cost is an homage to 1920, the year the 19th Amendment was passed, giving American women the right to vote. Meta Executives originally had planned to release the glasses next March during Women's Month, but rushed the release on account of Steinem's passing.
So far, the glasses already have celebrity fans. Over Labor Day Weekend, Second Lady Usha Vance was spotted sporting a pair standing next to her husband, Vice President JD Vance as he announced his proposed policy to provide child care subsidies for married couples with a stay-at-home spouse. Vance later posted a picture of the couple, featuring Usha's glasses, with the caption #AlwaysWatchingOutForYou.
Sources report that President Trump has already ordered a pair as a gift for Natalie Harp, and that Meta has tapped Sydney Sweeney as a new brand ambassador. Gloria Steinem would be proud.