Mentra Live presents itself as a Ray-Ban meta-alternative that remains open. Instead of a locked feature set, it runs MentraOS, an open source operating system with an SDK for third-party apps.
According to Mentra, this is the first smart glasses to be app-based from day one. It features an HD 12MP camera, stabilized live streaming across major social platforms, AI integration, and calls and music.
The purchase window is limited, with Batch 1 limited to 1,000 units and priced at $299, with a shipping date of February 15th. According to Mentra, Batch 2 will ship later in the first quarter, with only a limited quantity available.
Apps, not just hardware
The platform story begins with the MiniApp Store. Mentra calls it the only app store for smart glasses and says developers have been developing MiniApps for it since early 2025.
Owners access these MiniApps via Mentra’s iOS and Android app, and the glasses support iOS 15.1+ and Android 12+. It’s supposed to feel like adding apps to a phone that just run through your glasses.
The early catalog that Mentra points to is a mix of AI Notes and utility-style tools like Poker Probability and Chess Cheater, as well as an app called Merge Proactive AI. The list is rather experimental, which is the advantage of having an open goal.
Mentra also combines openness with trust. Its CEO Cayden Pierce argues that users should be able to choose apps and control data on a community-driven platform, rather than one dominated by big tech companies. The announcement does not detail privacy controls.
What you trade for openness
On paper, the hardware is a simple pair of camera glasses. Mentra lists a 43g frame, a 12MP camera with a 119-degree field of view, three microphones and stereo speakers.
The battery is another selling point. Mentra claims the glasses will last for more than 12 hours, a 2,200mAh case provides more than 50 hours more, and an “infinity cable” that can draw power from a phone or battery. A Mediatek chipset paired with a power-saving MCU is also listed for efficiency.
But the comparison to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses still has gaps. Mentra doesn’t provide any sample material, detailed image processing notes, or clear regional availability in the announcement, so it’s difficult to judge the polish beyond the specs.
What to watch next
Mentra Live will live or die on software quality. If MiniApps stay current and useful, the glasses could feel fresher longer than a closed system.
If you’re tempted, keep an eye out for hands-on reports that test camera performance, streaming stability and everyday comfort, then decide before Batch 2 inventory disappears. Mentra’s own schedule calls for the next batch later in the first quarter.
If you’re in the market now, check out the best smart glasses available today.
