Meta and Amazon have upped the game on smart glasses, both launching new generation wearable technology in iconic frames.
New Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, made available for sale last month, have live streaming and Meta artificial intelligence (AI) as well as boosted audio capabilities.
The glasses incorporate a new Meta AI assistant and are capable of livestreaming broadcasts of what a user is seeing directly to Facebook and Instagram, an advancement over the previous generation’s ability to snap photos.
EssilorLuxottica described the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses as “truly wearable, life-enhancing technology” that is a “leap forward” in audio and camera quality,
“We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Meta… the new Ray-Ban Meta collection is in a league of its own with features that have never fit inside a pair of glasses before,” said Rocco Basilico, Chief Wearables Officer for EssilorLuxottica.
“The world sees you in a pair of your favourite Wayfarers, perhaps with your own prescription and Transitions lenses that go from day to night, but you know you have this powerful universe of tech inside.
“Meta AI, live streaming, and insanely crisp audio and calling capabilities – all hands-free,” said Mr Basilico said.
Meanwhile, Safilo has collaborated with Amazon to launch two iconic Italian design frames fitted with Alexa technology.
Available in the United States only, the Carrera smart glasses have open-ear audio technology that directs sound to the ears without covering them, while minimising what others around can hear. Customers can get up to six hours of continuous media playback or continuous talk time on a full battery charge.
“Safilo has always looked to the future with an innovative approach, and this is why we are very proud to collaborate with Amazon on this innovative project, offering our Italian design and the unique style of Carrera Eyewear,” said Angelo Trocchia, CEO of Safilo Group.
Jean Wang, Director Smart Eyewear at Amazon said: “Safilo delivers expertise in the eyewear industry and Carrera’s iconic frame designs are a natural fit for smart eyewear and builds upon our vision for Alexa and ambient intelligence. With the new Carrera smart glasses, we’re offering customers even more options for stylish smart eyewear.”
