Global shipments of artificial intelligence glasses surged 263% year-over-year in the first half of 2026, according to a market study published by Counterpoint Research on September 21, 2026. Non-display models equipped with cameras, audio, and AI assistants drove 96% of that volume, with Meta commanding 94% of the audio-first category behind strong sales of its Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 lineup.
Meta Dominates the Audio-First AI Glasses Market
According to Counterpoint Research, non-display AI wearables captured the vast majority of consumer demand during the first half of 2026. Meta capitalized on this configuration, increasing its shipments by 260% year-over-year and capturing a 94% market share among non-display devices.
Did you know? Brands like Xiaomi and Alibaba held roughly 1% each of the non-display AI glasses market during the first half of 2026, leaving all other hardware makers to split the remaining 4%, according to Counterpoint Research data.
AR Display Models Post Rapid Triple-Digit Growth
While audio-only wearables captured higher volumes, optical see-through augmented reality glasses grew at an even faster pace. Counterpoint Research data shows that smart glasses featuring integrated visual displays jumped 449% year-over-year in the first half of 2026. Unlike Meta’s dominance in audio-only hardware, the display-equipped segment featured a fragmented leadership structure. Rokid led this category with 41% of shipments, followed by Meta at 37%, Even Realities at 11%, Alibaba at 7%, and INMO at 2%.
Regional Adoption and Pricing for Smart Wearables
Geographic demand remains heavily weighted toward North America and Europe. Counterpoint Research reported that North America accounted for 50% of global non-display AI glasses shipments, while Western Europe represented 28%. Latin America captured a small fraction of the global total. In Brazil, devices like the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 are commercially available starting at approximately R$ 3,5 mil or more through official retail channels, positioning them firmly in the premium electronics tier.
Pro Tip: When evaluating smart eyewear purchases, examine whether a device relies entirely on audio feedback or incorporates visual overlays, as battery life, privacy indicators, and weight vary drastically between the two formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the AI glasses market grow in 2026?
According to Counterpoint Research, global shipments of AI glasses grew 263% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
Which company leads the AI glasses market?
Meta leads the non-display AI glasses segment with 94% of global shipments in the first half of 2026, while Rokid leads the display-equipped AR segment with 41% of shipments.
Do Ray-Ban Meta glasses have a screen?
No. According to product specifications, the popular Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 models operate without a visual display, utilizing cameras, open-ear speakers, and Meta AI for voice and context processing.
How much do Meta AI glasses cost in Brazil?
Official retail listings in Brazil price the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 models at approximately R$ 3,5 mil ou mais, depending on frame styles and lens selections.
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