Technology
Meta's Three-Hour Trap Wasn't Invented by Meta
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Meta is capping AI features on Ray-Ban glasses at three hours monthly unless users pay $19.99 per month. This isn't innovation — it's the playbook that worked for printer makers, car manufacturers, and fitness equipment companies, now executed on eyewear.
Conversation Focus limited to 180 minutes/month; unlimited access requires Meta One Premium at $19.99
Meta claims subscription optional while functionally gating core AI features intended for daily use
Same rate-limiting strategy normalized printer ink DRM, BMW heated seat paywalls, Peloton bike restrictions
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