The smart glasses market is heating up with a new, formidable contender. At CES 2026, Rokid unveiled its AI Glasses Style, a product designed to compete directly with the popular Meta Ray-Bans by prioritizing comfort, extended functionality, and a more accessible price point. This launch signals a strategic shift in the wearable AI space, focusing on practical, voice-first assistance over complex visual overlays, and could redefine user expectations for all-day wearable tech.
A Focus on Featherweight Comfort and Design
The most immediate and tangible difference with the Rokid AI Glasses Style is their weight. Tipping the scales at just 38.5 grams (or 45.5g with polarized lenses), they are significantly lighter than the approximately 50-gram Meta Ray-Bans. This reduction is achieved by omitting a traditional micro-display, a design choice that directly addresses a common pain point for long-term wear. The frames feature air-cushioned liquid-silicone nose pads, which provide a secure and comfortable fit, a detail appreciated by users who find other models can slip. Available initially in Jet Black, with a Translucent Gray variant coming in March, the glasses support prescription lenses through Rokid's online service, making them a viable option for a wider audience.
Key Specifications & Comparison
| Feature | Rokid AI Glasses Style | Meta Ray-Ban (Latest Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 38.5g (45.5g polarized) | ~50g |
| Price | USD 299 | USD 379 |
| Camera | 12MP Sony, 4K video | 12MP, 1080p video |
| Max Video | 10 minutes | ~3 minutes |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours (typical) | Varies, generally less |
| AI Models | ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Qwen | Meta AI |
| Charging | Proprietary pogo-pin cable | Magnetic charging case |
| Launch Date | January 19, 2026 | Available now |
AI-Powered, Camera-Centric Functionality
Without a display, Rokid has doubled down on AI and imaging capabilities. The glasses are powered by a dual-chip system: an NXP RT600 for low-power tasks and Qualcomm's AR1 platform for AI and imaging workloads. This enables a voice-first interface accessible via the "Hi Rokid" wake word, integrating multiple AI engines like ChatGPT and DeepSeek for query handling. A key feature is the 12MP Sony camera, capable of capturing 4K video in social-media-friendly vertical aspect ratios for up to 10 minutes per clip, a notable increase over competitors' recording limits. Additional features include Microsoft AI Translation across 89 languages and Google Maps navigation, all delivered through open-ear speakers.
Notable Features of Rokid AI Glasses Style
- Dual-Chip Architecture: NXP RT600 for efficiency + Qualcomm AR1 for AI/imaging.
- Prescription Ready: Frames support custom lenses via Rokid's online service.
- Translation: Microsoft AI Translation for 89 languages (12 for wearer input).
- Navigation: Integrated Google Maps via audio.
- Design: Air-cushioned nose pads for grip; initial color Jet Black.
Battery Life and the Trade-Offs
Rokid promises up to 12 hours of typical daily use on a single charge, which is competitive for the category. However, this advantage is tempered by a less convenient charging system. Unlike the elegant magnetic charging cases of competitors, the Rokid glasses use a proprietary pogo-pin connector on the right stem, requiring users to carry a specific cable. For travelers and minimalists, this is a notable drawback in an otherwise lifestyle-focused product. The bundled carry case is a positive, but the charging mechanism feels like a step backward in user experience.
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
Priced at USD 299, the Rokid AI Glasses Style undercut the latest Meta Ray-Bans (USD 379) and even the discounted first-generation Meta models. An early-bird offer further reduces the cost. Rokid is also offering a "Golden Bundle" with prescription photochromic lenses for USD 398, presenting a compelling value compared to similar upgrades from Meta. The glasses are set to go on sale globally from January 19, 2026. This aggressive pricing, combined with its unique feature set, positions Rokid's offering as a strong value-oriented alternative, challenging the incumbent by focusing on core strengths like comfort, recording length, and AI utility, while asking users to compromise on charging convenience and, in initial tests, potentially speaker quality.
The launch of the Rokid AI Glasses Style marks an interesting evolution in smart glasses. It proves that compelling wearable AI doesn't necessarily require a visual overlay. By focusing on being a superior audio-and-camera platform housed in a more comfortable frame, Rokid has carved out a distinct niche. For users who prioritize all-day wearability, hands-free video capture, and AI assistance without the premium price tag, these glasses present a very attractive proposition, ensuring the competition in the smart glasses arena is fiercer than ever.