Best Buy to open immersive in-store shops dedicated to Meta AI glasses, VR headsets
Best Buy is partnering with Facebook parent company Meta.
The consumer electronics giant plans to roll out experiential spaces, called “Meta Lab @ Best Buy,” in 50 stores this summer, starting in June (list of initial locations at end of article). The 900-sq.-ft. space is designed to give customers a hands-on way to explore Meta’s full product lineup of AI glasses and VR headsets through interactive demos and displays, smart mirrors, personalized fittings and more.
According to Best Buy, more than 50% of their customers say they want to see Meta’s AI glasses in person before making a purchase.
“Meta Lab @ Best Buy is an experience customers can’t find at any other retailer and sets a new standard for how our customers will explore, play with and discover the latest cutting-edge tech,” said Patrick McGinnis, chief merchandising officer at Best Buy.
The in-store experience will feature a dedicated wall highlighting the large assortment of AI glasses, allowing customers to get a hands-on fit and feel for the glasses. Displays nearby will use interactive UV light to capture how lenses may adjust in different light settings. Customers will be assisted by dedicated Meta sales specialists.
The space also includes tech-forward displays that allows customers to virtually try on different shades and styles of the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses using high-tech smart mirrors. Customers can see the glasses on themselves virtually, browse frames and colors with the touchscreen or take a photo to compare favorite looks side-by-side.
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"Best Buy is an incredible partner,” said Christa Wittenberg, VP of global retail sales at Meta. “Together we're reimagining how consumers shop the next generation of personal technology. These are immersive, hands-on spaces built for real discovery — where people can experience firsthand just how stylish, fun, and personal AI glasses and VR really are."
The first Best Buy stores to roll out the Meta experience include:
•San Carlos, Calif.;
•Roseville, Minn.;
•Woodland Park, N.J.;
•Greenville, S.C.; and
•Columbus, Ohio.
