Tech editors react to Meta Connect 2026: Will smartglasses become mainstream?

In a recent panel discussion hosted by PCMag’s Iyaz Akhtar, tech experts from CNET, PCMag, and Mashable gathered to analyze the announcements from Meta Connect 2026. The conversation focused heavily on the future of wearable technology, specifically the debut of the Meta Ray-Ban Gen 3 smartglasses, which start at $249, and the introduction of new camera-free audio glasses. The panelists explored the intersection of fashion and functionality, debating whether these devices are poised to reach mainstream adoption. Beyond the hardware, the discussion touched on critical industry themes, including the integration of Muse AI assistants, advancements in VR display technology, and ongoing privacy concerns surrounding Meta’s latest product ecosystem. The experts offered a balanced perspective on the potential for these wearables to reshape consumer habits while acknowledging the significant challenges Meta faces regarding user data and privacy in the evolving landscape of augmented reality.