Meta’s AI glasses can now help you hear conversations better (techcrunch.com)

Meta has announced an update for its AI glasses, enabling wearers to better hear conversations in noisy environments. This feature, which utilizes open-ear speakers to amplify the voice of a person nearby, will initially be available on Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta HSTN smartglasses in the U.S. and Canada. Users can easily adjust the amplification level by swiping the right temple of the glasses, making it adaptable to various settings like restaurants or public transport. This practical enhancement aligns with Meta’s ongoing efforts to innovate in personal technology, competing with similar features found in Apple's AirPods. In addition to the conversation focus feature, the update introduces a Spotify integration that plays music related to the visual context, such as songs by artists seen on album covers. While this functionality may seem more gimmicky, it represents Meta's ambition to enhance the linkage between visual stimuli and app interactions. The software update (v21) will first be accessible to members of Meta's Early Access Program, with plans for a broader rollout in the future, potentially setting the stage for smart accessories that not only augment vision but also assist in auditory experiences.