Meta and EssilorLuxottica Target 20 Million Ray-Ban Smart Glasses in 2026 as Demand Outstrips Supply

The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses are now a victim of their own success. Meta and manufacturing partner EssilorLuxottica are in talks to double annual production to 20 million units — and potentially 30 million or more — after unprecedented demand overwhelmed supply in the first half of 2026.

The Numbers Behind the Surge

• 2025 sales: Approximately 7 million Ray-Ban Meta units sold, roughly double 2024
• 2026 target: 20 million units, up from 10 million previously planned
• Market share: Meta commands 73% of the global smart glasses market (CounterPoint Research)
• Revenue: Reality Labs revenue jumped 74% YoY in Q3 2025, driven primarily by AI glasses
• Waitlists: US waitlists for Ray-Ban Display extend well into 2026

International Expansion Paused

The demand surge forced Meta to pause planned international expansion of the Ray-Ban Display (the screen-equipped model) to the UK, France, Italy, and Canada. The company is prioritizing fulfilling US orders while re-evaluating its global rollout timeline. The screenless Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 remains widely available internationally.

Why Production Is Challenging

RBC Capital Markets analysts note that smart glasses generate "substantially lower gross margins" than traditional EssilorLuxottica eyewear, creating near-term pressure on the partnership even as the category booms. Higher volumes and improved component costs are expected to ease the margin squeeze over time.

What This Means for Buyers

The Ray-Ban Meta at $379 on Amazon is in stock now — but the Display model with a built-in screen has significant wait times. If you want AI smart glasses today, buy the standard Ray-Ban Meta while it's available. For those holding out for competition, Samsung's Galaxy Glasses arrive late 2026. Compare options in our smart glasses guide.