TL;DR
Mentra has launched the Mentra Live smartglasses running open-source MentraOS and an app store that emphasizes livestreaming to major platforms. The glasses pack a 12MP camera, MediaTek processor, three mics and speakers, claim up to 12 hours per charge (50 with the case), and cost $299 with an initial limited run.
What happened
Mentra introduced the Mentra Live smartglasses as an alternative to more closed smartglass ecosystems. The device uses MentraOS (formerly AugmentOS), an open-source platform with its own app store and SDK that developers are using to build MiniApps, many focused on camera-based live streaming. Mentra says the glasses can stream to services including Instagram, X, YouTube, Twitch and OnlyFans. The hardware is a black, bold-framed design similar in look to Ray-Ban Meta, weighing 43 grams and housing a 12-megapixel camera capable of stabilized video, three microphones and stereo speakers. Internals include a MediaTek processor paired with a low-power MCU; Mentra claims around 12 hours of runtime per charge and up to 50 hours with the carrying case. The Mentra Live units are priced at $299, available to preorder from Mentra’s store for a March release, and the company is initially releasing 1,000 pairs.
Why it matters
- An open-source OS and app store could broaden development and third-party innovation for smartglasses, challenging locked ecosystems.
- Direct livestreaming support for multiple social platforms makes wearable hands-free broadcasting more accessible to creators.
- Compatibility of MentraOS with other smartglass hardware may accelerate ecosystem growth beyond Mentra’s own device.
- A lower price point and developer focus could attract tinkerers and early adopters, influencing how mainstream smartglasses evolve.
Key facts
- Device name: Mentra Live smartglasses; software: MentraOS (formerly AugmentOS).
- Design: single color (black), bold frame with a camera in one arm and a blank in the other for symmetry.
- Weight: 43 grams; described as about 5 grams lighter than Ray-Ban Meta but with different dimensions.
- Camera: 12-megapixel sensor in the arm with stabilized video and still capture.
- Audio and voice: three microphones and stereo speakers for calls and media.
- Internals: MediaTek processor plus a low-power microcontroller (MCU) intended to improve battery life.
- Battery: Mentra claims roughly 12 hours of use per single charge; the case extends total use to about 50 hours.
- Software: open-source MentraOS with an app store and SDK; MiniApps include multiple livestreaming options.
- Platform support: Mentra lists Instagram, X, YouTube, Twitch and OnlyFans among supported streaming targets.
- Availability and price: $299 from Mentra’s online store, shipping in March; initial limited run of 1,000 pairs.
What to watch next
- Whether social platforms continue to permit direct livestreaming from the glasses — not confirmed in the source.
- Real-world battery and camera performance during extended livestreaming sessions — not confirmed in the source.
- Whether Mentra expands production beyond the initial 1,000-pair release and wider retail availability — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Open-source: Software whose source code is made available for anyone to inspect, modify, and distribute under a license.
- SDK (Software Development Kit): A collection of tools, libraries and documentation that developers use to create applications for a specific platform.
- MCU (Microcontroller Unit): A compact integrated circuit designed to control specific operations, often used to manage low-power tasks in devices.
- Livestreaming: Broadcasting live video content over the internet in real time to an audience on social platforms or streaming services.
- MiniApp: A small app or module designed to provide a focused function within a larger app ecosystem or platform.
Reader FAQ
How much do Mentra Live smartglasses cost?
$299, available to order from Mentra’s online store.
When will they ship?
Mentra lists a March release date for the Mentra Live smartglasses.
Can they livestream to major social platforms?
Mentra says the glasses can livestream to services such as Instagram, X, YouTube, Twitch and OnlyFans.
Does Mentra provide prescription lenses or subscription services?
Mentra does not provide prescription lens services; there is no ongoing subscription for the Mentra Live smartglasses.
These Ray-Ban Meta challengers will fulfill all your livestreaming dreams Credit: Mentra By Andy Boxall Published 43 minutes ago Andy is a seasoned technology journalist with more than 15 years experience…
Sources
- These Ray-Ban Meta challengers will fulfill all your livestreaming dreams
- Mentra Glass: Open‑Source Smart Glasses with Camera & AI …
- New Meta Ray-Ban AI-Powered Display Glasses and …
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