Meta Launches $299 Smart Glasses As Wearables Race Heats Up

Meta has unveiled a new line of smart glasses priced at $299, making them at least $80 cheaper than the company’s entry-level second-generation Meta Ray-Ban model as it expands its presence in the wearable technology market.

Lower Price, Broader Ambition

Developed in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the new Meta Glasses feature updated designs but do not carry Ray-Ban or Oakley branding. The launch broadens Meta’s product range at a time when interest in AI-enabled wearable devices continues to grow.

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According to industry estimates, Meta and EssilorLuxottica currently account for more than 80% of the smart glasses market, having sold millions of units since the product line was introduced in 2021. The lower price point may help the company reach a wider group of consumers while strengthening its position in the category.

From Camera Glasses To The Next Computing Platform

Like previous models, the new glasses combine a built-in camera with open-ear speakers and voice-enabled AI functionality. Users can interact with Meta’s AI assistant to translate languages, identify objects and locations, or capture photos and videos hands-free.

Although the device does not include a display, it forms part of Meta’s broader efforts to expand its wearable technology ecosystem. Last year, the company introduced Ray-Ban Display glasses priced at $799, which feature a built-in screen and additional functionality.

Company executives have repeatedly described smart glasses as an important area of development as Meta explores new ways of integrating artificial intelligence into consumer hardware.

Rising Competition In Smart Glasses

The field is getting more crowded. Google said last month that it is developing computerized eyewear with Warby Parker powered by its Gemini AI model. Last week, Snap announced Specs, a $2,195 pair of smart glasses that CEO Evan Spiegel described as a successor to the smartphone. Meta said its new glasses will be offered in three designs, alongside a new charging stand.

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Eurobank Launches First UPI Cross-Border Payment From Greece To India

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 10, 2026

Eurobank has launched its first cross-border payment from Greece to India through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking a new step in the bank’s international expansion and its strategy to strengthen financial ties between Europe and India.

The transaction, completed in cooperation with NPCI International, follows the launch of Eurobank’s new payment service. The inaugural payment was made in the presence of India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Eurobank Chief Executive Fokion Karavias and senior executives from NPCI International.

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A Strategic Bet On India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

According to Eleftherios Vlachogiannis, Eurobank’s head of transaction banking, the service currently supports outgoing payments by Indian citizens living in Greece to recipients in India, representing the first phase of a broader collaboration with NPCI International.

UPI is operated by NPCI International. By integrating the system into its e-banking platform and mobile app, Eurobank enables customers to make real-time transfers.

“The most important aspect is the philosophy behind the initiative,” Vlachogiannis said. “Instead of creating another closed payment system, we are integrating mature and internationally recognised payment ecosystems into the bank’s services so customers enjoy a simple, secure and modern transaction experience.”

He added: “Innovation creates value when it delivers a genuine benefit for the customer.”

Building A Financial Bridge Between Europe And India

The UPI launch follows Eurobank’s opening of a representative office in Mumbai, making it the first Greek and Cypriot bank with a physical presence in India. The bank has also expanded its presence through the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council, a technology centre in Pune and partnerships with Indian institutions.

Vlachogiannis said India’s economic growth and closer ties with the European Union support the bank’s long-term strategy. He also pointed to progress in negotiations on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

Mumbai Office Serves As A Regional Business Hub

Eurobank’s Mumbai office supports businesses seeking to establish operations between India, Greece, Cyprus and the wider European market. It provides access to banking services, business networks and market support.

For Greek companies expanding into India, the bank offers international payments, foreign exchange management, trade finance and supply chain finance. Indian businesses investing in Greece, Cyprus or elsewhere in the European Union can also access financing and corporate banking services through Eurobank.

Aiming To Strengthen The India-Europe Corridor

Looking ahead, Eurobank said it will continue investing in technology, international payments, trade finance and partnerships with Indian organisations.

“Our ambition is to act not only as a banking services provider but also as a strategic partner for businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the opportunities created by this dynamic market,” Vlachogiannis said.

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