Mentra Live Smart Glasses Launch with Open-Source OS

Mentra is preparing to launch its first entry into the wearable technology market with the Mentra Live smart glasses. While the device may appear similar to competitors at first glance, it introduces a significant shift in functionality through its open-source operating system and a dedicated application ecosystem.

The company aims to transform smart glasses into a more versatile platform for developers and users alike. With a focus on accessibility and utility, the Mentra Live is designed to handle everything from communication to entertainment, all while maintaining a lightweight, prescription-ready form factor.

The defining feature of the Mentra Live is its MiniApp Store, which the company describes as the first app store of its nature specifically for smart glasses. This dedicated store will be accessible to both iOS and Android users through the companion Mentra app, allowing for a seamless integration with existing smartphone ecosystems.

Developers have had access to the software development kit (SDK) since early 2025, utilizing an open-source OS that encourages innovation. The potential applications range from practical tools to entertainment, signaling Mentra's ambition to bring the smartphone-ification of smart glasses to reality.

Examples of potential applications include:

• Hand-written note saving on the fly
• AI-driven gaming assistance
• Real-time translation and transcription
• Social media integration and livestreaming

Under the hood, the Mentra Live is powered by a Mediatek MTK8766 chipset. The device features a 12-megapixel camera with a wide 119-degree field of view, ensuring broad capture for photos and videos. The front-facing camera supports HD video recording and offers livestreaming capabilities directly to platforms like X, YouTube, Twitch, and Instagram.

Audio functionality is robust, featuring three microphones and built-in stereo speakers. Users can listen to music or take calls from apps such as WhatsApp and FaceTime directly through the glasses. The device is designed to be among the lightest in its category, weighing in at just 43 grams.

Apps might do something as simple as saving hand-written notes on the fly, but a more specific example is "Chess Cheater," which will use the front-facing camera and AI to analyze your position and literally whisper a suggested next move to you.

Battery performance is a critical factor for wearable devices, and the Mentra Live addresses this with a claimed battery life of more than 12 hours on a single charge. This duration is intended to cover a full day of use without interruption.

For extended usage, the device comes with a 2,200mAh charging case. This case provides an additional 50+ hours of charge, ensuring that users can remain connected for days at a time without needing to access a power outlet. The combination of the glasses and the case offers a total of over 60 hours of operational time.

The Mentra Live smart glasses are priced at $299 and are fully prescription-ready, allowing users to insert their own lenses. The company is launching the product in limited batches to manage initial demand.

The first batch consists of 1,000 pairs, which are scheduled to ship on February 15. A second batch will follow shortly after, with a limited number of units available to ship on February 28. This staggered release approach suggests high anticipation for the device within the developer and tech enthusiast communities.

The launch of the Mentra Live represents a significant step forward in the evolution of smart glasses, moving them from niche accessories to potentially essential tools for daily life. By prioritizing an open-source environment and a dedicated app store, Mentra is betting on developer creativity to drive adoption.

As the first batches ship in late February, the tech community will be watching closely to see how the MiniApp Store evolves and what unique applications emerge. With its competitive price point and focus on utility, the Mentra Live is positioned to challenge established players in the wearable market.