Meta will provide 15,000 Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses free to Vision Ireland, which will distribute them to blind and visually impaired adults it supports. The initiative highlights the glasses’ potential as accessibility tools, despite continuing concerns that their cameras could enable recording without consent.

Applicants must register their interest with Vision Ireland, which will assess eligibility and offer in-person training and support. The glasses can read text and messages aloud, identify objects, describe surroundings, send dictated replies and connect users with Be My Eyes volunteers; Meta says the donation is sufficient for every eligible adult supported by the charity.