At Expo Ottica Sud 2026, EssilorLuxottica showcased an ecosystem of solutions combining innovation, personalization, and protection under the "Anima Mediterranea" theme. The presentation featured Varilux XR series with Essilor Living Intelligence for progressive lenses, Transitions Gen S for adaptive light comfort, and Transitions Color Touch for style-driven color nuances. Visioffice X+, a new digital optical column generation, was highlighted for using AI to capture individual visual parameters and frame positioning in seconds. Additionally, Nikon Lenswear’s Z Suite progressive designs and Galileo’s new presbyopia management protocol were displayed. The company stated these technologies aim to center the wearer and optometrist, integrating brand competencies to address diverse visual needs and Mediterranean identity values.
Boston-based startup Legato has made its Legato Frames hearing glasses available for purchase in the United States. This release marks the first entry among new competitors challenging EssilorLuxottica’s Nuance Audio product line. The source identifies HOYA’s PENTAX as the lens partner for these frames. The move represents a concrete expansion of options in the hearing aid eyewear sector within the US market.
Giorgio Armani’s heirs plan to meet LVMH, L’Oréal and EssilorLuxottica to discuss selling an initial 15% stake in the fashion group, following founder Giorgio Armani’s succession instructions. Chief Executive Giuseppe Marsocci stated the holding could be shared among investors, though terms remain undecided. The will prioritizes these three groups but allows for comparable buyers, with a deadline of March 2027 that may extend due to market conditions. A possible split would grant each party a 5% holding. Valuation gaps persist, with insiders suggesting €10 billion against investor estimates of €3–7 billion. EssilorLuxottica holds an eyewear agreement until 2038, while L’Oréal’s beauty licence runs through 2050. Further sales of 30% to 54.9% are planned over three to five years.
Armani is preparing to initiate discussions with EssilorLuxottica, L’Oreal, and LVMH regarding the sale of a 15 percent stake in the company. This move follows instructions outlined in the will of Giorgio Armani, according to media reports. The talks represent a strategic step in executing the late founder's succession plan, involving key players in the luxury and optical sectors.
The optical industry introduced new lens and technology products for the fall season. Signet Armorlite launched Kodak Precise Next Lenses, featuring near zone amplification to accelerate power progression. EssilorLuxottica released Crizal Natural Look coating to reduce reflections and highlighted Stellest lenses, the first FDA-approved eyeglass lenses designed to slow myopia progression in children ages 6 through 12. VSP Optics offered TechShield Sun UVR, an anti-reflective coating for sun lenses compatible with all materials. IOT introduced Neochromes ONE photochromic lenses, claiming up to 20 percent darker performance in high temperatures, and Neochromes Vibe for aesthetic customization. Hoya Vision Care unveiled Sensity 3, stating it is up to 4x more resistant to reaction fatigue than leading competitors. Schneider announced CCU Modulo Zero hybrid linking technology and Modulo Center ONE Pro, which delivers up to 40 percent higher throughput in a compact footprint.
EssilorLuxottica announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its invisible, open-ear assistive listening glasses designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The product features improved audio performance, extended battery life of approximately ten hours, and an expanded range of styles including Square 53, Panthos 48, and Upturn 52. Available from September 30th in Canada through authorized professionals and online in selected countries, the recommended retail price starts from $1,149 depending on lens configuration. Key updates include directional amplification, new on-frame controls, and compatibility with Transitions lenses. This release builds on the original Nuance Audio Glasses, which have expanded to 14 countries and over 18,000 stores since their initial launch.
EssilorLuxottica has announced ELevate, a new partnership programme designed to support independent eye care practitioners in the UK. Launched at an event in Birmingham on 10 September, the initiative consolidates existing Essilor and Luxottica loyalty schemes into a single portal offering rewards, training, business support, and clinical expertise. The programme features four pillars: Clinical excellence, Connect, Accelerate, and Differentiate, including access to brand accreditations like Ray-Ban Legends and Oakley Pro. It retains a three-tiered points system based on annual spend, ranging from Aspire (up to £12,000) to Advanced (over £96,000). Giona Riccetti, general manager for UK and Ireland, described it as a global first, aiming to help independents navigate rising costs and competition by providing dedicated account management and digital insights.
SightGlass Vision presented new research at the American Academy of Optometry 2026 Annual Meeting indicating that children wearing DOT spectacle lenses exhibit viewing behaviors comparable to those using standard single-vision lenses. Studies utilizing eye-tracking and motion capture assessed activities such as reading, gaming, walking, and cycling, finding no significant differences in head movements, reaction times, or steering between lens types. Additional analyses from the CATHAY clinical study reported infrequent visual disturbances and high satisfaction rates among children aged 6 to 13. SightGlass Vision states these findings support fitting DOT lenses with greater confidence. The company notes DOT lenses are commercially available in China, Canada, Israel, Spain, and the UK.
Rodenstock has introduced the "B.I.G. Vision Lift & Learn Wall," an interactive in-store consultation system designed to visually demonstrate lens benefits. The setup features a large touchscreen (43, 55, or 65 inches) paired with twelve RFID-tagged demonstration lenses. When a consultant places a specific lens into a sensor-equipped frame on the wall, the system automatically triggers relevant visualizations comparing near, intermediate, and distance vision across different lens technologies. Unlike pure software solutions like EssilorLuxottica’s Eyecast, this hardware-based approach emphasizes haptic interaction and serves as a visual anchor in the retail space. Alexander Horn, owner of Optik Horn in Würzburg, reports that the tool streamlines consultations, aids in explaining premium lens value, and increases customer decisiveness by making complex optical concepts intuitively understandable.
EssilorLuxottica announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its invisible, open-ear assistive listening glasses for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The new product features improved audio performance, extended battery life of approximately ten hours, and an expanded range of styles including Square 53, Panthos 48, and Upturn 52. Available from September 24th in Canada through authorized professionals and online in selected countries, the recommended retail price starts from $1,149 depending on lens configuration. Key advancements include directional amplification, intuitive on-frame controls, and compatibility with Transitions lenses. This release builds on the original Nuance Audio Glasses, which have expanded to 14 countries and over 18,000 stores.
EssilorLuxottica has announced the launch of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its FDA-cleared open-ear hearing glasses designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The new model features improved amplification, clearer speech-in-noise performance, extended battery life of approximately 10 hours, and hands-free phone call capability when paired with a compatible iPhone. Available in three frame styles (Square, Panthos, Upturn) and five colors, the glasses support prescription lenses and Transitions® options. Currently available in the United States through authorized optical and hearing-care professionals starting at $829 USD, online availability varies by country.
At Meta Connect 2026, Mark Zuckerberg announced a strategic reversal for the company's hardware division. Previously built on the assumption that the metaverse would precede AI superintelligence, Meta is now prioritizing AI functionality first. This shift centers on 'Muse,' the company’s personal AI agent. The move signals an intent by Meta and partner EssilorLuxottica to occupy significant market share in the AI glasses sector by aligning product development with current AI capabilities rather than future metaverse promises.
Ray-Ban Meta has announced its first audio-only AI glasses, Ray-Ban Meta Audio, alongside the next-generation camera-equipped models, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3). The Ray-Ban Meta Audio features open-ear listening and Meta AI assistance in Clubmaster and Burbank frames, weighing 43 grams. The Gen 3 models introduce a slimmer profile, a 3K Ultra HD camera, six-array microphone, and up to 9 hours of battery life across Wayfarer, Aviator, and Zena silhouettes. This expansion includes new seasonal colorways for Blayzer Optics (Gen 2) and Scriber Optics (Gen 2). Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3) is available starting September 23 via Ray-Ban stores, Ray-Ban.com, select EssilorLuxottica banners, and Meta.com. Ray-Ban Meta Audio launches October 13 through similar channels. Global rollout continues with planned launches in markets including Hong Kong, South Africa, and Portugal.
Editorial relevance: The release of audio-only AI glasses and Gen 3 smart eyewear expands the product portfolio available through major retail channels, directly impacting consumer choice in the smart eyewear segment.
At Meta Connect, EssilorLuxottica and Meta announced new AI glasses lines, including the camera-free Ray-Ban Meta Audio in Clubmaster and Burbank styles, and the slimmer Ray-Ban Meta Gen 3. The portfolio expands with new Oakley Meta Capri and Nova styles, plus LISA-designed models, aiming for over 100 styles by year-end. New features include the Muse AI agent, Hearing Enhancement (US only), and private processing. Retail expansion covers ten new markets including Poland and South Africa. Meta Ray-Ban Display is now available online, launching today in the UK and Canada, with pre-orders starting in France, Italy, and Germany.
Editorial relevance: The release of camera-free audio glasses and expanded retail markets directly impacts the smart eyewear segment within online optical retail channels.
EssilorLuxottica reported six-month interim findings from an ongoing randomized, double-masked clinical trial in China for its Essilor Stellest 2.0 lens design. The study showed treatment effects of 0.51 D for myopia progression and 0.21 mm for axial elongation compared to single-vision lenses. These results are comparable to those previously reported after 12 months with first-generation Stellest lenses, suggesting a potentially accelerated response using H.A.L.T. MAX technology. Principal investigator Professor Yang Xiao noted the treatment response appeared approximately twice as fast. Over 90% of children wore the spectacles more than 12 hours daily, and 98% adapted within one week. The trial remains ongoing, with one-year analysis serving as the primary efficacy endpoint.
Monica Jong, Head of Medical Affairs North America at EssilorLuxottica, discussed recent findings on Stellest lenses' effectiveness in controlling myopia progression. A two-year randomized clinical trial involving 159 US children showed a 71% reduction in myopia progression compared to single-vision lenses, with 34% of wearers experiencing no progression. The study, published in JAMA Ophthalmology, supports the FDA-approved status of the lenses. Additionally, the American Medical Association recently passed a resolution classifying myopia as a formal disease, including Stellest lenses as a treatment option for children aged 6-12 years. This classification may support insurance coverage for pediatric eye care. EssilorLuxottica stated it has trained over 30,000 eye care professionals on myopia management.
At Connect 2026, Meta announced new features and expanded availability for the Meta Ray-Ban Display. Key updates include hands-free cycling and public transit navigation launching later this month in the US and Canada, and a Hologram feature for calls rolling out in Early Access on WhatsApp in the US later this fall. The company also introduced Dolby Atmos video capture, enhanced calendar integration, mirrored notifications, and Threads community feeds. Regarding sales, Meta is expanding into the UK, Canada, France, Italy, and Germany with online ordering. Sales began today in Canada and the UK; pre-orders started today in France, Italy, and Germany, with full availability on October 13. Prescription lenses will be available via EssilorLuxottica stores in France and Italy starting October 13, and later in Germany.
Editorial relevance: The announcement details specific online ordering channels and geographic availability for Meta Ray-Ban Display, directly impacting eyewear e-commerce distribution.
At Connect, Meta announced Ray-Ban Meta Audio, its first audio-only glasses, priced from $349 USD with pre-orders open and shipping on October 13. The company also launched Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3) starting at $449 USD, featuring a slimmer design, longer battery life, and a 6-mic array. Additionally, Meta expanded its EssilorLuxottica partnership to include new styles like the LISA collaboration and Kylie Jenner Ivory colorway, plus more affordable options starting at $249 USD. By year-end, Meta plans to offer over 100 glasses options across Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Meta brands. New markets including Singapore, South Korea, Mexico, and the UAE are receiving Meta Glasses today, while other regions will see broader brand availability later this year.
Editorial relevance: This release expands Meta's AI glasses portfolio with new audio-only and camera-equipped models, broadening price points and market availability for eyewear ecommerce.
EssilorLuxottica has initiated the rollout of Nuance Audio Plus, the next generation of its open-ear hearing glasses designed for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. The launch is currently limited to selected countries, notably France and Spain. This update follows a challenging first-generation launch, occurring as competitors begin to emerge in the space.
According to a leak reported by The Information, Meta is developing a camera-free pair of smart glasses internally codenamed "Luna," which could ship as soon as October. Neither Meta nor its manufacturing and commercial partner EssilorLuxottica has commented on the report. The source article discusses the potential reasons for dropping the camera feature but notes that the timing, motive, and scope remain unconfirmed by the companies involved.
The Accessories Council announced the finalists for its 2026 Design Excellence Awards, recognizing innovative products across the accessories industry. The awards include four eyewear categories split between independent brands and multi-brand companies, alongside segments for handbags, footwear, jewelry, sustainability, and technology. Notable optical finalists include Silhouette, Krewe, EssilorLuxottica, Marcolin, Safilo, and Barton Perreira. Winners will be revealed on November 2 at a New York City event. Public voting is currently open and remains available until October 26. Since the program’s inception in 2019, it has celebrated hundreds of brands. Accessories Council President Karen Giberson highlighted increased participation in the optical sector, noting eyewear’s growing role as an expression of personal style and design innovation within the broader accessories market.
Show organizers for Silmo Paris have announced the nominees for the 33rd Silmo d'Or Awards, an annual juried ceremony celebrating eyewear design and innovation. Joachim Froment, co-founder of Futurewave, will serve as jury president. The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on September 26, 2026, during the Silmo 2026 show scheduled for September 25–28 at Paris Nord Villepinte. Categories include children, sport, vision, materials, technological innovation, smart eyewear, optical frames, and sunwear. Notable nominees feature products from EssilorLuxottica (including Ray-Ban Meta Display), Oakley, Hoya Vision Care, and various independent designers across multiple segments.
Leonardo Maria del Vecchio, one of eight heirs to Luxottica founder Leonardo Del Vecchio, called for a change in strategy at EssilorLuxottica. The request comes as the family holding company Delfin remains the largest shareholder with a 32.4 percent stake. Del Vecchio cited the declining value of the eyewear giant’s stock as a key factor behind his appeal for strategic adjustments.
The United Opticians Association held its 2026 conference in Chicago from June 25–27, gathering nearly 250 opticians, educators, and industry partners. The event featured technology demonstrations by MEI Systems, EssilorLuxottica, Optikam, and Eyebot, alongside exclusive visits to Europa Eyewear and MEI Systems. Attendees elected new FY27 leadership, including Board President Dr. Aarlan Aceto, and recognized award recipients such as Mary Seguiti and Heather Branderhorst. The conference raised more than $20,000 for the Vision of Hope Foundation and Optical Heritage Museum, with donations remaining open through July 31. Organizers announced Minneapolis, Minnesota, as the host city for the 2027 conference and launched the "Get Certified. Stay Certified." initiative.
BBGR and Nikon Verres Optiques will exhibit at Silmo 2024, the Mondial de l’Optique trade show. The event is scheduled from Friday, September 20, to Monday, September 23, 2024, running daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center. Attendees can find the companies in the dedicated BBGR-Nikon space within the EssilorLuxottica stand. The announcement invites visitors to request badges and access practical information via provided links. This notice confirms participation plans for the upcoming optical industry exhibition without detailing specific product launches or sales figures.