A MAFO magazine article from Issue 05/2026 argues that ophthalmic lens power is not an intrinsic property but depends on optical context. The text notes that while geometry and refractive index are invariant, effective power changes with the surrounding medium, illustrated by intraocular lenses dropping from approximately 60 diopters in air to 20 diopters when implanted. For eyewear, vertex distance adjustments compensate for positional differences, particularly in high-power prescriptions. Furthermore, central measurements fail to capture peripheral aberrations caused by oblique gaze angles, which introduce unwanted astigmatism and higher-order aberrations like coma. Although Tscherning’s ellipse describes base curves that minimize these effects, aesthetic and manufacturing constraints often prevent their use. Consequently, peripheral compensation technologies are necessary to align perceived power with prescribed values across the visual field.
US optical technology company Colorboost, expanding into Europe, has proposed two new metrics—the Color Resolution Factor (CRF) and the Color Accuracy Factor (CAF)—to objectively measure lens color performance. The initiative addresses a gap in industry standards where terms like “enhanced color” lack shared measurement methods, unlike established values such as Visible Light Transmission. Adapting display industry concepts, Colorboost maps pixel density to Spatial Cutoff Frequency to define these factors. CRF serves as the primary measure of color contrast, comparing a lens’s ability to resolve color differences against a clear reference. This approach aims to standardize how wavelength-filtering lenses are evaluated, moving beyond simple light blocking to quantifiable visual enhancement.
Solabs has introduced Solar Defog Technology (SDT), a durable, PFAS-free coating that uses near-infrared sunlight to passively heat eyewear lenses and reduce fogging. Unlike surface-based solutions, SDT integrates a semicontinuous nanolayer inside standard anti-reflective or mirror coating stacks, protecting it from abrasion and ensuring compatibility with modern lens designs. The technology absorbs up to 70% of NIR radiation while maintaining up to 80% visible transparency. Laboratory and field tests indicate the coating can increase lens temperature by several degrees under sunlight, reducing defogging time by up to a factor of 10. The first commercial application is the Optray Sky SDT by Solabs, launched in collaboration with React Swiss Eyewear. Durability was validated with Bühler Leybold Optics, confirming suitability for industrial production.
Editorial relevance: The launch of a passive, sunlight-activated anti-fog coating addresses a persistent consumer pain point in eyewear, potentially driving demand for high-performance outdoor and safety lenses.
In a MAFO magazine interview, Li Jun, founder and CEO of Maat Optical, discussed the company’s strategy for photochromic lenses. Founded in China in 2000, Maat Optical produces over 20 million lenses annually with nearly 400 employees, including more than 30 in R&D. The company utilizes in-mass and spin-coating technologies to compete with international brands. Li highlighted recent additions of red and amber colors in the first half of 2026 and an annual pipeline of over three new products guided by their "8Q Strategy." He identified balancing thermal stability with photosensitivity as the primary technical challenge, noting that high temperatures limit darkening performance. Based in Danyang, a major ophthalmic manufacturing hub, Maat Optical aims to enhance light management and visual health protection globally.
LOOK has introduced the Nil-Tech 75400 series to its Premium segment, featuring four frames weighing seven grams each. The collection includes a panto, a rectangular double-bridge, and two squared silhouettes designed for both men and women. Constructed from LOOK’s patented NIL technopolymer front and titanium temples, the frames utilize an interlocking system instead of screws or adhesives. This design was tested over 16,000 opening and closing cycles to ensure stability. The NIL front is precision-milled using techniques derived from traditional acetate processing. Comfort features include elongated nose pads and increased side depth for a subtle wraparound effect that accommodates thicker prescription lenses. All frames are designed and manufactured entirely in Italy at LOOK’s own production facility.
OVVO has expanded its Ti2 Collection with three new titanium eyewear models: ATLAS, KRONOS, and TYPHON. Designed for strength, lightness, flexibility, and comfort, each style offers a distinct silhouette. ATLAS features an all-metal construction with angular lenses and a surface that shifts between matte and metallic finishes. KRONOS presents a bold, architectural rectangular frame with a raised bridge and pronounced browline. TYPHON, described as the most experimental of the trio, utilizes sculpted surfaces and unexpected geometry to create a three-dimensional profile, incorporating a keyhole bridge and integrated nose pads. These additions demonstrate the versatility of titanium as a design material while maintaining OVVO’s focus on technical precision and considered construction.
ENGO has announced the engo3 Cyclist, a heads-up display (HUD) smart glass model designed specifically for road and gravel cyclists. Powered by ActiveLook technology, the glasses project over 40 data points into the rider's field of view, including real-time power zones, heart rate, and estimated watts. A key feature is the integration with Garmin-compatible bike radars (such as the Varia range), which displays alerts for approaching vehicles based on distance and speed to enhance safety. The device offers customizable screens via a companion app, double-tap controls, and compatibility with Garmin watches and Edge devices. ENGO states the glasses feature an IP55 rating, adjustable temples for helmet compatibility, and a battery life exceeding 20 hours. The standard version is priced at €349.95/$399.95/£299.95, while the photochromic version costs €399.95/$449.95/£349.95.
Masai Eyewear presented its new collection during Expovisão in Rio de Janeiro, showcasing designs described as inclusive, lightweight and multicultural. The line features thin-profile metal frames in square and geometric shapes with black, silver, rose and gold tones, alongside acetate models in blue, black, translucent gray and demi colors. Rounded and rectangular forms aim to balance comfort, lightness and style for daily use. Distributed exclusively by Prooptica Brasil, the collection is positioned for optical retailers seeking versatile, contemporary eyewear. The source highlights design aesthetics and brand identity but does not provide specific model names, prices or launch dates beyond the event presentation.
Paris-based independent luxury eyewear brand Ahlem has developed a new bronze frame construction after two-and-a-half years of R&D, including oxidation testing. The nickel-free alloy allows for architectural forms and shifts weight to the temples for better balance, while fronts retain plated metal. Nine new designs featuring bronze temples will debut at Silmo Paris (September 25–28). This launch accompanies Ahlem’s retail expansion: opening its largest US boutique in New York, a first Asian flagship in Tokyo, and a second Paris store in October. The brand expects eight boutiques by end-2026, following minority investment from 1686 Partners. Ahlem reports 35% year-on-year growth across approximately 900 wholesale doors.
McQueen Eyewear has released its latest collection, which combines bold shapes with refined craftsmanship. The range includes sharp cat-eye frames, narrow oval designs, and striking wraparound sunglasses. Constructed from lightweight acetate and metal, the frames feature subtle signature details and the McQueen logo to establish identity without overpowering the design. The collection aims to balance strength with elegance, offering contemporary yet timeless silhouettes intended for everyday luxury wear.
Yohji Yamamoto has introduced a new eyewear collection emphasizing lightweight titanium construction and refined metal detailing. The line includes the YY040 combination frames, which feature subtle 3D bevels on the top bar and are available in colorways such as black with brushed gun, tortoise brown with gold, and crystal grey with brushed silver. Additionally, the YYSUN504 sunglasses present a hexagonal shape with matte black titanium temples and signature gold screws. Both models incorporate distinctive Y-shaped end pieces along with comfortable titanium temples and nose pads. The collection aims to balance strong silhouettes with precise, light construction, reflecting the brand’s design philosophy of clean architecture and understated detailing.
For this year’s SILMO Paris, J.F. REY introduced a collection exploring complementarity between masculine and feminine perspectives. The designs reinterpret signature codes through variations in lines, proportions, materials, and construction techniques. Specific models include the titanium Sledge line model »JF3173« with a feminine turn, and »JF3161«, which offers a lighter, streamlined expression of the iconic Double Combi’s metal lining. The brand emphasizes evolving existing design languages rather than repeating formulas, maintaining individual character within each concept. This theme of connection extends to a new communication campaign centered on couples, visually representing how distinct identities can unite without becoming identical.
French fashion brand agnès b. has introduced its latest eyewear line, THE SPECIAL PIECE, specifically model AB 60120X. The collection features frames made from renewable eco-friendly materials to honor founder Agnès Troublé’s commitment to ocean conservation. Design elements include deep blue tones and wave-like undulating lines on the frame and temples, with transparent temple arms displaying a gradient effect. Each pair includes a double-sided reusable eco-bag and an eyewear case crafted from vegan leather. The brand emphasizes classic, minimalist aesthetics over transient trends. This initiative is managed by 101 Design Studio Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Suning Optical Group Holdings Limited, which handles the design, production, and distribution of licensed eyewear brands for the group.
INVU announced its new Timeless Style collection, targeting the men’s optical segment with magnetic clip eyewear. The frames are crafted from TR90, acetate and stainless steel, featuring classic silhouettes designed for lightweight comfort. Each optical model includes a precision magnetic sun clip that attaches to the frame, converting prescription eyewear into sunglasses. The lenses utilize INVU’s ultra-polarized technology, providing glare reduction, UV400 protection and clear vision, particularly beneficial for driving or changing light conditions. The collection emphasizes versatility through this two-in-one design, combining timeless aesthetics with functional adaptability without compromising style.
Eyewear brand ANDY WOLF has announced its Reading Club Chapter 20 collection, emphasizing subtle details in color, material, and form. The line centers on reinterpreted Havana patterns with vibrant gradients, extending to metal frames via patterned temple tips. A new white-silver tone introduces a modern edge to the metal designs, while matte acetate adds tactile sophistication to sculptural lines. Specific models include »4848« and »5166«, which feature lower-set temples for a balanced silhouette, and »4854«, a slim cat-eye shape offering a contemporary take on feminine forms. The collection is part of a campaign themed around curiosity and new perspectives, positioning each frame as a distinct way to express style.
FLEYE Copenhagen has introduced the PERSPECTIVES collection. The new line revisits the brand's material language through a fresh lens. No specific product details, pricing, availability dates, or geographic launch scopes were provided in the source material.
Italian eyewear brand Persol has released the limited-edition PO3416V optical frame, a collaboration with typewriter manufacturer Olivetti. The design honors Marcello Nizzoli’s 1950 Lettera 22, featuring handmade cotton acetate construction and metal nose bridges with radial engravings mirroring the typewriter's internal mechanics. Key details include customized Meflecto flexible stems and Arrow hinges incorporating Olivetti’s “O” insignia, along with temple tips finished in red to evoke the original ribbon. Available in Black, Havana, and Brown Gradient (1259), the frames come with collector’s packaging. Currently sold through Persol flagship boutiques and persol.com for $562 USD, this release highlights shared heritage in Italian industrial design without altering standard optical functionality beyond aesthetic customization.
Eyewear brand ØRGREEN has announced its new Sheet Titanium SUN collection. The release focuses on exploring the sculptural potential of titanium within the company's eyewear designs. The source material confirms the existence and naming of this specific line but does not provide details regarding pricing, availability dates, geographic distribution, or technical specifications beyond the use of sheet titanium. As an announcement rather than a confirmed retail launch, current market access remains undefined in the provided text.
Porsche Design announced its Fall/Winter 2026 eyewear collection, featuring titanium, stainless steel, and RXP® materials. The lineup includes the Splitline Series with all-titanium frames, the Neo Blade Series inspired by brake calipers, and the Liquid Titanium Series with organic designs. It also expands the Hexagon Series with the unisex P’86016 model and updates the Eternal Series P’8508 with new color combinations like warm gold with green lenses. The collection emphasizes technical precision and industrial design influences across optical styles and sunglasses, maintaining a focus on lightweight constructions and contemporary silhouettes without specifying immediate retail availability or pricing details.
Japanese brand GROOVER SPECTACLES, founded by Masataka Nakashima in 2008, announced the release of two new eyewear models: FITZGERALD and GARLAND. Both frames are handcrafted at the G-YARD factory in Tokyo under the "Tokyo Craftsmanship" standard. The FITZGERALD model features a softened acetate fiber frame inspired by the brand's previous TRASH design, priced at $13,900 with dimensions 52□17-147. It includes signature eagle feather rivets and logo-engraved nose pads. The GARLAND model is constructed from pure titanium with a classic horseshoe bridge, priced at $15,750 with dimensions 48□23-147. APLUS TRADING serves as the general agent for Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China.
Eyewear brand MOREL has introduced two new sunwear signatures, named LIMNOS and PATMOS. The collection combines expressive silhouettes with refined construction. The source material confirms the launch of these specific models but does not provide details regarding pricing, availability dates, geographic scope, or technical specifications such as lens materials or frame dimensions.
Jiu Bi Da Eyewear, established in 1984 with locations in Tainan and Kaohsiung, has selected three Chrome Hearts metal frame models for display. The chosen styles are EDITH F., VAGIDICTORIAN, and PHUNK, all priced at $68,400. These frames feature titanium structures combined with the brand's signature silver carving aesthetics. EDITH F. uses acetate and titanium with a small round shape; VAGIDICTORIAN presents a crown-shaped design with black and gold tones; and PHUNK offers a double-bridge aviator style in gold and stainless steel. Each model incorporates specific dimensions and colorways, such as BK/MBK for EDITH F. and GP/SS for PHUNK, highlighting Chrome Hearts' integration of gothic motifs into lightweight metal eyewear.
The Japanese brand spec ēspace has reintroduced its popular ES-2061 eyewear model in Taiwan, responding to local demand. This frame features a double-layer titanium construction and the brand’s signature “no welding, no screws, no hinges” one-piece structure, designed for lightweight comfort and durability. It includes skin-friendly temple tips that offer anti-sweat and non-slip properties to reduce pressure during extended wear. The return launch offers six distinct color variations (Col. 01–05 and Col. 07) with a size specification of 54□17. The suggested retail price is set at $19,500. Availability is confirmed through authorized distributors in Taiwan, including the Eiyokawa display center in Taipei, though specific stock levels remain unverified by independent sources.
The provided text identifies AKONI as a high-end eyewear brand from Switzerland, featured by Jupiter Optical (久必大眼鏡) in the cities of Tainan and Kaohsiung. This information appears within a navigation menu or category listing on an eyewear news website, rather than in a detailed article body. Consequently, no specific product launches, pricing details, availability dates, or independent performance metrics are reported. The content serves primarily to highlight the brand's origin and its association with the named optical retailer in these geographic locations, without providing further factual context regarding sales figures or new collections.
KADOR has expanded its Premium Collection by introducing two new interpretations of longstanding bestsellers: the Mondo Premium Retro Bold and the Jolly Premium Retro Bold. These models retain the distinctive character of their predecessors while offering stronger, contemporary silhouettes. The Mondo features a charismatic round shape, whereas the Jolly draws inspiration from 1950s eyewear with balanced proportions. Both frames utilize bold acetate fronts softened by gentle bevels to create depth without visual heaviness. Design details include ergonomic temples adorned with KADOR’s signature eight-point star rivets on both front and temple areas. Exposed metal cores feature linear engravings and the brand’s characteristic sequence of engraved K motifs. Constructed from premium acetate using a combination of skilled handcraft and advanced manufacturing techniques, these updates aim to provide new depth through material and precise detailing while maintaining visible heritage elements.
Los Angeles-based luxury eyewear label AHLEM, founded by Ahlem Manai-Platt, has unveiled its “ECHOES OF LOVE” collection. The range comprises 17 metal and acetate frames inspired by a cinematic love story set in Paris. Key features include plant-based cotton flower acetate, palladium-electroplated metals with 22K gold coating, and custom nickel-free bronze temples developed over a year for skin feel and durability. Handcrafted in French workshops, the designs incorporate hand-hammered textures, step-like reliefs, and laser-engraved geometric motifs on hinges. The collection balances deep jewel tones with translucent neutrals in acetate, while metal pieces combine structural stability with warm gold surfaces. AHLEM’s “ECHOES OF LOVE” is currently available globally via the brand’s official webstore and physical flagship stores.
CAZAL Eyewear has released a new collection centered on its "Sonic Architectures" design concept, featuring sculptural silhouettes and intricate metalwork. The lineup includes the men's MOD 687 sunglasses with gold-plated acetate and metal details; the women's MOD 5025 with titanium nose pads and Torx screws; and the women's MOD 8525 sunglasses with flat lenses. The men's MOD 9117 combines shield lenses with grid patterns and colorful detailing. Notably, the oval-shaped MOD 890/3 is produced as a strictly limited edition of 400 pieces total: 200 units in Col.001 and 100 units each in Col.002 and Col.003. All models emphasize craftsmanship through material contrasts and signature brand elements.
INVU has introduced the IB12704A, a new women’s sunglass model featuring a modern update to the classic oval silhouette. The frame utilizes a lightweight mixed-material construction combining TR90 and stainless steel for durability and flexibility. Equipped with INVU’s proprietary ultra-polarized lenses, the product offers full UV400 protection and significant glare reduction while maintaining clear vision. The design emphasizes clean lines and refined details, positioning the eyewear as a versatile option suitable for extended wear across seasons.
Eyewear brand i-spax has introduced the SHADES OF COLOUR collection, presenting minimalist designs that incorporate expressive colors and clean shapes. The line includes six distinct models: KALLE features a double bridge metal aesthetic with gradient lenses in green, light blue, orange, and grey; QUINN combines round lenses with a stainless steel shield-inspired front; MAPLE offers a slim, angular wire frame with contrasting eye rims; JUNIPER and TIMBER utilize continuous double bridges extending to the endpieces, reinterpreting aviator and angular styles respectively; and CLOVER updates the panto silhouette with sharpened lower rim edges. Accompanying campaign imagery uses pink, light azure, and hazelnut-brown backgrounds to highlight color and individuality within a relaxed visual language.
In July 2026, ophthalmologist Celso Cunha, a consultant for Japanese optics company HOYA Vision Care, detailed considerations for selecting progressive lenses to address presbyopia, which affects approximately 43% of the Brazilian population according to IBGE 2025 data. Cunha explained that progressive lenses offer smooth transitions between distance, intermediate, and near vision zones, unlike monofocal lenses. He recommended prioritizing digital surfacing technology, such as Hoya’s Amplitude lenses, alongside UV protection, blue-light filters for screen users, anti-reflective coatings, scratch-resistant finishes, and photochromic options. The specialist emphasized that routine habits influence comfort and adaptation, urging consumers to seek trusted opticians for proper lens centering. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of regular eye exams to detect silent conditions like glaucoma and cataracts early, ensuring appropriate visual correction at each life stage.
German eyewear brand FLAIR has announced a new collection to celebrate its 80th anniversary. The lineup features models such as the Art Couture 9148 and 9149, which combine decorative elements with lacquer inlays, alongside titanium-based frames like the 9150 and 9151 that incorporate delicate engravings. Several designs, including the 2021, 2023, and 1504, draw inspiration from the Art Deco era, utilizing high-gloss details and sculptural elements. Other models explore lightweight construction through ß-titanium designs and subtle color gradients. The collection also includes the 2504, part of FLAIR’s 3D-printed 2500 series, which pairs a printed front with forged titanium temples. These releases highlight the brand's focus on precision, individuality, and material innovation.
Italian eyewear brand LOOK has introduced the Lamina collection, a new line of lightweight frames designed for everyday wear. The collection utilizes a shared construction for both men’s and women’s styles, featuring fronts made from Xinox, an ultra-lightweight high-tech steel, connected via a screwless mechanism to temples crafted from NIL (Natural Injection Light). This design emphasizes slim profiles, flexibility, and stability while maintaining a visually understated aesthetic. The men’s models offer streamlined silhouettes with urban, athleisure-inspired details and matte or polished surfaces, whereas the women’s styles present softer, slender profiles with delicate contrasts and fresh colour combinations. LOOK positions Lamina as a fusion of material innovation and Italian craftsmanship, focusing on comfort and natural movement without appearing overly technical.
Jacques Marie Mage unveiled its Summer 2026 “Iconographies” collection, celebrating the brand’s first decade by revisiting archival silhouettes and introducing new material innovations. Designed in Los Angeles and handcrafted in Japan and Italy, the limited-edition line features two primary series: the Ti Series, converting acetate styles like DEALAN, ZEPHIRIN, and TORINO into 100% beta titanium frames, and the Mx Series, combining 12mm plant-based acetate with engraved titanium temples for models including MOLINO. The release also includes original designs such as SQUADRON, AMILCAR, KENSHIN, and TAMERLIS. Photographed by Horst Diekgerdes under the theme “Rebirth of the Icon,” the collection is currently available worldwide through Jacques Marie Mage Galleries, the brand’s website, and select luxury eyewear retailers.
GALLERY DEPT. has released its first eyewear collection, designed by founder Josué Thomas. The line features five silhouettes constructed from premium acetate and metal, incorporating hardware details derived from the brand’s jewelry line. Inspired by Hollywood uniform culture, the frames span classic and sport-focused aesthetics, with each model named after a date of personal or cultural significance to Thomas. The collection is currently available for purchase via GalleryDept.com and physical stores, with prices ranging from $250 to $285 USD.
At Galaxy Unpacked in London, Samsung Electronics introduced its latest intelligent eyewear, developed in collaboration with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. Building on designs announced by Google at I/O in May 2026, the new frames feature extended battery life (up to nine hours per charge), Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 processors, and Gemini multimodal AI integration via Android XR. The devices offer hands-free assistance, live translation, and visual context capture. While specific pricing and exact availability dates remain unannounced, Samsung has targeted a fall 2026 launch. The collaboration emphasizes everyday wearability and distinct brand aesthetics, with Warby Parker offering brown hues and Gentle Monster providing slim black frames.
Editorial relevance: Samsung's introduction of intelligent eyewear with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster signals a significant expansion of smart glasses into the mainstream optical retail channel.
Gentle Monster has revealed the second design from its upcoming intelligent eyewear collection, developed in partnership with Google and Samsung. The new optical frame features a square silhouette and integrates audio, camera, microphones, and Google Gemini. It connects to Android (Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel) and iOS (Apple iPhone) devices via a companion app, supporting voice commands for music, calls, photography, translation, navigation, and contextual AI assistance. The frames offer up to 9 hours of battery life per charge, with a charging case providing seven or more additional charges. This second style joins the initial design ahead of the full collection's launch, scheduled for later this fall. A campaign photographed by Éamonn Zeel Freel, starring models Anok Yai and Alex Consani, accompanies the reveal.
Silmo Paris has announced the ten finalists for its 2026 Optical Design Contest, selected from global student entries under the theme “The Future of Optics: What Vision?” The jury is chaired by designer Olivier Lapidus. The nominated projects include adaptive sports eyewear, smart frames with heart-rate sensors for children, and biodegradable mycelium-based designs. These concepts will be showcased at the Silmo Paris exhibition, scheduled for September 25–28 at Paris Nord Villepinte. One overall winner will receive a €10,000 prize, split equally between the student and their educational institution. The announcement highlights Silmo’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and exploring innovative uses in optics through experimental design.
l.a.Eyeworks announced a limited-edition "Yello" colorway of its Button frame, with proceeds benefiting the Gai Gherardi Fellowship. Established by Art Matters in June 2025, the fellowship honors late co-founder Gai Gherardi and awards $10,000 annually to an artist; Dinah Young was the 2025 recipient. The titanium frames, developed by Gherardi before her March 2025 death, are limited to 100 individually numbered units featuring yellow acetate temple tips and accessories designed by Huntley Muir. Availability is restricted to l.a.Eyeworks’ global wholesale network and Los Angeles retail store until sold out.
The Optical Women's Association, via its OWA Connects platform, published guidance on integrating next-generation technology into optical practices. The article advises identifying specific workflow friction points before investing in tools. It highlights AI-powered Electronic Health Records (EHR) for voice-driven documentation and scheduling, as well as AI front desk systems that autonomously manage calls and appointments 24/7. Revenue Cycle Management solutions are noted for using automated claim scrubbers to potentially increase pass rates from 50% to 90%. Additionally, the text describes automated vision test kiosks for adults aged 18-64, which update prescriptions in under 15 minutes with licensed doctor review but do not replace comprehensive eye exams. Digital merchandising tools are also mentioned for updating retail displays automatically.
For the Spring/Summer 2026 season, MODO has expanded its R 1000 Collection by introducing four new optical styles. The collection centers on R 1000, a high-performance memory plastic originally developed for aerospace applications, which is paired with ultra-light titanium temples to ensure flexibility, durability, and exceptional lightness. Among the new additions is model 7082, featuring a refined double-bridge silhouette. The frames are offered in a versatile color palette that includes understated shades such as black, grey, and blue, alongside expressive tones like burgundy, violet, red, and electric blue. This update reflects MODO’s ongoing focus on combining technical innovation with a clean, contemporary design language for everyday wearability.