Xiaomi has launched its Mijia Smart Audio Glasses globally, positioning them as a more affordable alternative to Ray-Ban Meta glasses. With a focus on audio and camera functionality rather than displays, these glasses offer 12 days of standby time and 13 hours of continuous usage, all for under €180.
Xiaomi has expanded its Mijia series with the Smart Audio Glasses, now available for order across the Eurozone and the UK. Priced at €179.99 and £169.99 respectively, these glasses represent Xiaomi's direct challenge to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which currently retail for $459.99 on Amazon. The key differentiator is a clear focus on audio and camera functionality over the display-centric approach of devices like the Xreal R1.
What's New: Audio-First Smart Glasses
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses are fundamentally different from traditional smart glasses. Instead of integrating a heads-up display, Xiaomi has prioritized audio capture and playback, along with a camera for short recordings. This design philosophy mirrors the Ray-Ban Meta model but at a significantly lower price point.
Key specifications include:
- Battery Life: Up to 12 days of standby time and 13 hours of continuous audio playback or recording
- Durability: IP54 certification for dust and splash resistance
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 compatibility
- Compatibility: Works with devices running Android 10.0 or iOS 14 and newer
- Audio: Built-in speakers and four microphones for clear audio capture
- Controls: Touch gesture activation for voice assistant integration
How It Compares: Xiaomi's Own Lineup and Competitors
Xiaomi directly compares these new glasses to its existing Smart Audio Glasses, noting that the Mijia version is thinner and offers improved battery performance. The 12-day standby time represents a full day's improvement over the previous model, while the 13-hour continuous usage is competitive for audio-focused wearables.
Against the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, the Mijia Smart Audio Glasses offer similar core functionality—audio playback, voice assistant access, and camera recording—at less than half the price. However, they lack the Meta glasses' integration with social media platforms and the more sophisticated camera system found in higher-end models.
The IP54 rating is a practical inclusion, making the glasses suitable for light rain or dusty environments. Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable connectivity and potentially better battery efficiency compared to older Bluetooth standards.
Who It's For: Practical Audio and Camera Users
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses are designed for users who want the convenience of audio playback and hands-free recording without the premium price tag of display-equipped smart glasses. They're particularly suited for:
- Commuters and travelers who want audio entertainment without earbuds
- Content creators needing quick, hands-free video or audio capture
- Professionals who benefit from voice assistant access during meetings or calls
- Everyday users seeking a more affordable entry into smart wearable technology
The 13-hour battery life covers a full workday, while the 12-day standby means users won't need to charge them frequently if used intermittently. The four-microphone array should provide clear audio capture even in noisy environments, making them practical for voice notes or quick video clips.
Technical Considerations and Limitations
While the specifications are competitive for the price point, there are trade-offs. The lack of a display means these glasses won't show notifications, navigation directions, or other visual information directly in the user's field of view. The camera is designed for short recordings rather than high-quality photography, which limits their utility for serious content creation.
The Android 10.0 and iOS 14 compatibility requirements mean users with older smartphones may need to update their devices or find alternative solutions. The touch gesture control, while convenient, may require some learning curve for users accustomed to physical buttons.
Availability and Next Steps
Xiaomi's Mijia Smart Audio Glasses are available for order starting today through Xiaomi's official channels in the Eurozone and UK. For detailed specifications and purchasing information, visit Xiaomi's official product page.
This launch continues Xiaomi's strategy of offering feature-rich smart wearables at accessible price points, making smart glasses technology more approachable for mainstream consumers. As the market evolves, we expect to see further refinements in battery life, audio quality, and camera capabilities across all price segments.
For users considering smart glasses, the Mijia Smart Audio Glasses represent a compelling middle ground—offering core smart functionality without the premium price of display-equipped alternatives. They're particularly attractive for those who prioritize audio and quick recording capabilities over visual information display.
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