Vision Australia has criticized the Victorian Government’s decision to ban smart glasses in state schools from 2027, warning that the policy overlooks the needs of blind and low vision students. The organization argues that these devices are vital assistive technologies for independent navigation and classroom participation. Vision Australia specifically objected to a caveat permitting usage only when no other suitable adjustment is available, stating it creates unnecessary hurdles rather than fostering collaborative solutions. Additionally, the group raised concerns about confusion regarding specialist clinical wearables that function similarly to mainstream smart glasses. They expressed disappointment over the lack of prior consultation with the disability community. As the implementation date approaches, eyecare professionals may face increased queries from families, while Vision Australia urges the government to reconsider the blanket ban to ensure essential technologies remain accessible.
Synsam AB repurchased 124,574 own shares between October 19 and October 23, 2026, as part of a share buy-back program initiated to adjust the company’s capital structure. The transactions were executed on Nasdaq Stockholm by DNB Carnegie Investment Bank AB. This activity falls within the maximum MSEK 200 program announced on May 28, 2026, which runs from June 1, 2026, until February 26, 2027. Following these purchases, Synsam holds 5,084,209 own shares out of 145,313,746 total outstanding shares. Daily volumes ranged from 24,574 to 25,000 shares, with weighted average prices between SEK 53.55 and SEK 55.41.
100% Optical announced Frame of Mind, a new destination celebrating independent eyewear design, scheduled to launch when the annual event returns to Excel London from February 27 to March 1, 2027. Organizers state the space is created to connect innovative eyewear designers with independent opticians, practice owners and boutique retailers. The announcement precedes the actual opening of the curated area at the upcoming show dates.
Maison Margiela and Gentle Monster have unveiled their fourth collaborative eyewear collection, featuring 43 sunglasses and 25 optical frames designed around the concept of deconstruction. The line includes exaggerated proportions, second-skin leather wrapping, and variations of Maison Margiela’s signature four white stitches. The launch is supported by a short film directed by Alex Prager and immersive pop-up installations opening on October 29, 2026, in eight cities: Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai, Beijing, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, and Paris. A live performance by choreographer Damien Jalet and artist Ian McMahon will accompany the Seoul opening. Full release details are hosted on the brands' official websites.
OVVO Optics expanded its Duo Collection for Fall 2026 with three new optical eyewear styles: Calvin, Anderson and Marla. These models combine the brand’s surgical steel and titanium composite with Italian acetate, featuring metal temples and newly introduced integrated acetate nose pads for improved fit. Each style offers distinct silhouettes and specific colorways; Calvin presents rounded shapes in options like Midnight with Clouds, while Anderson features angular profiles in shades such as Chrome with Neutral. Marla introduces an upswept design with expressive palettes including Cherry Matte with Ruby. The release emphasizes material innovation and European craftsmanship within the existing collection framework.
Alain Afflelou has introduced eggplant, violet, and purple frames to its MAGIC collection, aligning with the autumn-winter 2026/27 fashion trend that favors deep colors over neutral tones. The update features four specific models: the round acetate MAGIC CARACTÈRES DIPLOMATE, the butterfly-shaped MAGIC 425, the XL square MAGIC CARACTÈRES RÊVEUSE, and the octagonal MAGIC 277. Each frame includes two interchangeable magnetic clips, part of a system offering more than 1,000 available options for sun protection, blue-light filtering, and night driving. This move positions colored eyewear as a functional accessory capable of adapting to various situations while reflecting current style preferences observed at Madrid Fashion Week.
VisionLab relocated its Gijón store to Corrida Street, expanding the space to over 90 square meters. The new location implements the company's updated concept, featuring Kümer IA lenses and proprietary Custom Lab technology for in-store 3D-printed frames. VisionLab also highlights its exclusive Kümer by VisionLab contact lenses and myopia management services. Currently operating 109 stores across Spain and Portugal with more than 600 professionals, the chain remains the only Spanish optical retailer with an ophthalmic lens factory in Madrid. Recent innovations include a partnership with IOT to produce progressive lenses via light flash, making VisionLab the first global distributor of Light Form.
On October 25, Etnia Barcelona presented its collaboration with artist Felipe Pantone at the Chiesa della Misericordia in Venice. This event followed an earlier presentation in Barcelona attended by Lookvision. The partnership features a limited edition of 1,000 numbered eyewear units designed to reflect Pantone’s exploration of movement and visual perception. The frames include interchangeable temples allowing two distinct aesthetic options: one with chromatic gradients created through laminated acetates, and another featuring a moiré optical pattern inspired by Pantone’s work. A specialized key is included to facilitate temple swaps. The exclusive gathering attracted artists, designers, and cultural figures, including Ezequiel Pini, Aryz, Sabine Marcelis, and Cora Novoa, concluding with a live performance by Yerai Cortés.
Banuba published a comparison of eight Shopify virtual try-on apps as of October 2026, noting monthly costs range from $14.99 to $1,299. The analysis distinguishes between three billing units: per-try-on generations (used by six apps), digitized products (Camweara), and free built-in media (Shopify). It highlights that entry-level plans often have higher per-unit costs at volume compared to premium tiers. Key findings include that four apps charge overage fees between $0.10 and $0.17 per extra try-on, while Banuba is the only app listed without auto-charged overages. The report also contrasts real-time AR solutions, such as Banuba and Camweara, with AI photo generation apps, advising retailers to match the technology to their product category, particularly for face-worn items like eyewear.
Editorial relevance: Provides a detailed comparison of pricing models and hidden costs for virtual try-on apps on Shopify, aiding merchants in selecting tools for eyewear and other categories.
The Optonia vocational school for optometry and ophthalmic optics held its ninth career day on September 16, 2026, in Diez. More than 200 attendees, including students, alumni, and company representatives, engaged with approximately 25 exhibiting firms to discuss professional perspectives and entry opportunities in the optical industry. Four former graduates delivered keynote presentations detailing diverse career paths ranging from self-employment and leadership roles to specialized technical positions and early business ownership. Twelve workshops provided practical insights into current industry topics. Additionally, informal "Nice-to-meet-you" sessions allowed students to establish initial contacts with potential employers. Holger Werner, Managing Director of Optonia, emphasized the importance of personal exchange and strong networks for professional success.
MPG Optische Werke GmbH launched a new campaign emphasizing its lens portfolio, noting that development occurs in Austria while production takes place at the company’s site in Glücksburg, Germany. The manufacturer states it employs 200 specialists across development, manufacturing, service, and consulting. The high-end portfolio includes MPO Life Digital for digital device use, MPO Life with personalized fitting parameters, MPO @Work for specific viewing distances, and MPO Mono Relax 2.0 with up to +1.10 diopters of near support. Additionally, MPO BLC integrates a blue light filter reducing short-wave blue light by up to 65 percent, based on internal company measurements, alongside claimed 100 percent UV protection.
EssilorLuxottica reported a group revenue of €7.49 billion for the third quarter of 2026, representing a 9% nominal increase from €6.87 billion in the prior-year period. Currency-adjusted growth was 7.2%, slower than the 11.7% constant-currency rise seen in the same quarter last year. The Direct to Consumer segment grew 10.6% on a currency-adjusted basis to €4.09 billion, outpacing the Professional Solutions segment, which rose 3.4% to €3.39 billion. E-commerce contributed 7% of total group revenue, unchanged from previous levels. Key growth drivers included myopia management, with sales up 24% at constant exchange rates, and wearables, which increased 20% currency-adjusted to €486 million. However, wearable sales declined in the EMEA region despite gains in North America, Asia, and Latin America. The company also launched the Nuance Audio Plus smart hearing glasses in mid-September 2026.
During the Paris Games Week (October 22–25), eyewear retailer Krys released study results indicating increased visual and auditory strain among French video game players. The data shows 41% of gamers report eye discomfort, such as dryness or blurred vision, a four-point rise from 37% in 2025. Additionally, 22% experience hearing issues like tinnitus, up three points year-over-year. The study notes that 73% of French people play video games, with smartphones serving as the primary device for 56% of users. Young adults aged 18–34 are disproportionately affected, with 46% reporting eye strain. Krys recommends preventive measures including the "20-20-20 rule" for vision and limiting audio volume to 60% for hearing protection, though these guidelines do not guarantee risk-free usage due to varying device capabilities.
An official decree published in the Journal Officiel on October 15 extends a July 9, 2026 salary agreement for the retail optical-lunetterie sector. Signed by employer groups ROF and FNOF alongside unions CFDT, CFE-CGC, CFTC-CSFV, and UNSA, the accord replaces the September 14, 2023 wage grid. Effective November 1, 2026, it applies to all companies under the branch collective agreement. For non-BTS employees working 151.67 hours monthly, gross minimum wages range from €1,903 to €3,536 depending on category. For health professionals, the grid starts at €2,024 and reaches up to €3,859 based on coefficient.
Starting November 1, the European Union will levy a permanent two-euro handling fee on each type of item in packages sent directly to consumers from outside the bloc. This measure aims to curb the influx of low-value imports, particularly from China via platforms like AliExpress and Temu, and compensate customs authorities for increased workload. The fee applies regardless of parcel value and is separate from the temporary three-euro duty on small parcels introduced in July. While the EU states consumers will not pay this fee directly, online marketplaces and sellers are responsible for it and may pass costs to buyers through price adjustments. Officials note that imports have fallen by approximately 64 percent since the July duty was implemented, though they caution it is too early to draw firm conclusions.
Editorial relevance: The new EU handling fee directly impacts cross-border online retail logistics and costs for major e-commerce platforms selling into the European market.
OVVO announced three new additions to its DUO Collection for Autumn 2026, continuing the brand's exploration of material contrasts. The styles combine OVVO’s signature composite of surgical steel and titanium with handcrafted Italian acetate, aiming to balance technical lightness and durability with expressive softness. A notable update includes the introduction of acetate nose pads to the DUO line for the first time, designed to enhance fit and create a cohesive appearance. The collection features modern silhouettes with defined contours and softened angles, reflecting a blend of advanced materials and European craftsmanship.
French eyewear brand Variation Design, founded in 2003, presented its 2026 novelties at SILMO. The collections for adults, teens, and children consistently feature a "double line" design element where a second colored accent parallels the main frame without touching it. Materials include acetate and metal, with each model available in three colorways. Women’s frames like CARAMIEL and MÉDÉE use bold, offset contours, while men’s styles such as ZED and ABSOLU employ thinner, refined accents or double bridges. Kids’ models, including ALI and LEONOR, apply the motif through vibrant, multi-colored combinations. All designs are created in France, emphasizing distinct aesthetic approaches across age groups while maintaining the brand's core visual identity.
French optical store revenue increased by 1% year-on-year in September 2026, following a 1.7% rise in August. This growth masks significant disparities across different locations. Stores in commercial activity zones (ZAC) performed best with a 2.6% increase, while city-center stores rose by 1.5%. Conversely, shopping centers saw a 1.6% decline after strong August performance. Overall, 56.2% of points of sale reported higher activity. The September result marks the second consecutive month of growth since a low point of -8% in May 2026. However, October activity was noted as particularly disrupted, suggesting this positive trend may not continue into the next month.
Optic 2000 has announced the release of its first 100% audio smart glasses, available from October 26 across its network and website. Priced at €99 for a second pair and €149 for a first pair, the frames feature discreet HD directional audio, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and two-button controls on the temples. The devices offer five hours of continuous listening with a 90-minute recharge time and weigh 30 grams. Two styles are available: a transparent optical frame compatible with prescription lenses and a tortoiseshell sunglasses version with category 3 lenses. The company cites a February 2026 Toluna Harris Interactive study indicating that 83% of potential buyers prioritize fluid call and music management, while cost remains the main barrier for half of interested consumers.
Snap announced that actor Robert Downey Jr. has joined the company as an honorary Chief Customer Experience Officer (CCEO) to promote its upcoming SPECS augmented reality glasses. In this role, he will guide customers on using the see-through devices and help shape new Lens experiences and original content. While a previous rumor suggested a $100 million deal, the exact financial terms remain unconfirmed by Snap. The appointment aims to increase general audience awareness of AR technology. Separately, leaked specifications from SammyGuru indicate Samsung’s upcoming smartglasses, developed with Google, will feature a Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip, 2GB RAM, and a 41-gram weight, positioning them lighter than current Ray-Ban Meta models.
Miga Studio introduced new eyewear models and additional color variants for its Fall/Winter 2026 collection, focusing on geometric shapes and material combinations. The updates span the Taisho Titan Top, Kōji, and Titan 11.0 mm lines. Key additions include the "Ma" frame in Taisho Titan Top, combining Takiron acetate with titanium; the angular "Kaku" model in Titan 11.0 mm; and five new Kōji frames, comprising three aluminum designs ("Tōri," "Shizen," "Rin") and two acetate models ("Kizashi," "Kōsei"). The brand also expanded color options across selected frames, featuring varied metal tones, surface textures, and matte finishes. Notably, the Kaizen Thin line received contrasting matte surfaces to highlight its Japanese titanium and aluminum construction, while the fundamental frame structures remained unchanged.
Italian manufacturers' association ANFAO reported that Italian eyewear exports reached €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026, a 2.7% year-on-year decline. While total exports fell due to a significant 25.1% drop in shipments to the US (€320 million), monthly trends showed gradual recovery, with June exports rising 3.7%. Europe strengthened its position as the primary market, growing 4.4%, led by gains in Germany (+7.1%) and Poland (+20.9%). Conversely, Asia saw a 6.0% decrease. Domestically, Italy's optical retail market remained stable at €1.8 billion (+0.3%), outperforming broader European declines. ANFAO President Lorraine Berton emphasized geographic diversification as essential for competitiveness amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
French optical retailer Optic 2000 has launched its own brand of connected eyewear, prioritizing audio functionality over video. The new glasses feature integrated speakers in the temples for calls, music, and GPS navigation but explicitly exclude cameras. Martine Loyer, Director General of Groupement Optic 2000, stated the choice reflects a focus on simplicity and daily utility. The devices connect via Bluetooth to iOS and Android smartphones, controlled by two buttons on the temples, offering up to five hours of battery life with a 90-minute recharge time. Two models are available: a transparent frame compatible with prescription lenses and a tortoiseshell sunglasses model with category 3 lenses. Priced at €149 as a first pair or €99 as a second pair, these products complement the retailer's existing sales of third-party video-enabled brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley.
Organised by the HKTDC and HKOMA, the 34th Hong Kong International Optical Fair will be held from November 4 to 6 at the HKCEC. The event features over 600 exhibitors from 14 countries, showcasing products including smart eyewear, frames, lenses, and eye-care solutions. Highlighting sector growth, organizers cited IDC data showing global smart glasses shipments reached 3.566 million units in Q1 2026, up 130.1% year-on-year. The fair adopts an EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, utilizing Click2Match and Scan2Match tools for business connections until November 13. Concurrent events include the 24th Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium and the 26th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition.
Australian eyewear brand Sunday Somewhere announced a new optical collection featuring four frames designed to evoke specific moods rather than locations. Shot in Marrakech, the lineup includes Marceline SS1087, Azura SS1089, Amorette SS1091, and Oria SS1096. Each model utilizes premium Mazzucchelli acetate with distinct silhouettes, such as retro aviators and modified rounds, incorporating signature palm tree accents and custom hinge designs. Colorways vary by frame, including Purple Confetti Tort, Teal Caramel, Brown Smoke, and Red Multi. The collection emphasizes sculpted edges and layered laminations for depth. WestGroupe, which distributes Sunday Somewhere globally, supports the launch. Specific availability dates or pricing were not disclosed in the announcement.
Retail locations in Taree and Forster, New South Wales, are seeking joint venture partners. The opportunity offers a guaranteed salary, a share in dividends, and the chance to build and lead a team. The source text does not specify the company name, the number of available positions, or the exact nature of the retail business beyond the location context.
At the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO) autumn meeting in Billund, Denmark, from October 16–18, 2026, ZVA Vice President Sylvia Alps was elected for the first time to the Public Affairs and Economic Committee (PAEC). The PAEC is one of two central specialist committees within ECOO, focusing on political, regulatory, and economic frameworks for the optical industry in Europe. Alps succeeds ZVA President Kai Jaeger, who previously represented the association on the committee. This appointment allows the ZVA to actively shape European developments and advocate for German optical interests in early-stage decision-making processes. Alps stated her goal is to ensure European decisions remain practical for businesses. The ZVA also highlighted its ongoing efforts to enforce Medical Device Regulation standards for corrective eyewear sold via international online platforms from non-EU countries.
Online eyewear retailer Zenni announced the appointment of Erica J. Scott as chief commercial officer, effective September 28, 2026, and Zoe Richards as director of public relations. Scott will lead Zenni’s commercial strategy, bringing over 25 years of experience in global consumer brands, including her recent role as global CMO at Signet Jewelers’ Milestone Brands Division. Co-founder and CEO Julia Zhen stated that Scott’s background is instrumental for expanding reach and strengthening the brand during Zenni's next growth phase. Richards joins from Rothy’s, where she served as director of communications and public relations for nearly seven years, following agency work with brands such as Olay and GANT.
In an exclusive interview with Vision Monday, EssilorLuxottica Chief Scientific Officer Norbert Gorny discussed how artificial intelligence and oculomics can reshape eyecare. Gorny emphasized that AI serves as a tool to enhance efficiency for optometrists and ECPs rather than replace them, allowing professionals to delegate routine measurements and focus on patient care. He highlighted the company’s R&D achievements, including the development of Essilor Stellest lenses for myopia management and Varilux XR progressive designs. Since joining in January 2011, Gorny has led scientific vision sectors, advocating for innovation driven by real-world consumer needs. He noted that emerging technologies in smart frames could measure cognitive load and contribute to systemic health insights, marking a shift beyond traditional optical correction.
S&P Global Ratings has upgraded the long-term credit ratings of EssilorLuxottica, assigning a stable outlook to the company. The action was reported on October 25, 2026, by Philip Webster for Eyewear Intelligence. The source confirms the rating upgrade and the stability of the outlook but does not specify the previous or new rating levels, nor does it detail the financial metrics or strategic factors driving the decision. No information regarding the impact on stock performance, debt costs, or operational changes is provided in the available text.
Spanish optical group MO Global Eyewear, operating under the Mó and Multiópticas banners, plans to expand its presence into Guatemala and the Dominican Republic. This growth is scheduled for early 2027 and relies on an agreement with Disresa, which will serve as the master franchise in both countries. The source confirms these are expansion expectations based on a signed agreement, rather than completed store openings or launched operations at this time.
Specsavers Canada issued a public advisory on childhood myopia during Children’s Vision Month, emphasizing early detection and management. The company reported that its myopia management treatments tripled over the past 18 months, with approximately 1,800 children presenting with myopia monthly across Canada. Specsavers cited an estimated 30% population prevalence for myopia, noting it increasingly affects children as young as six or seven. Clinical Services Director Naomi Barber stressed that regular comprehensive eye exams are critical because symptoms like squinting or screen proximity may not be obvious to parents. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends annual exams for school-aged children until age 19. Specsavers, which entered Canada in late 2021 and operates 278 locations, offers affordable solutions through independent optometrists.
At the Silmo trade show, HTC presented its Vive Eagle eyewear concept, emphasizing privacy as a core component of its artificial intelligence strategy. Thomas Dexmier, HTC’s Associate VP for EMEA Business Development and Enterprise Solutions, stated that the company views eyewear as a potential successor to the smartphone in smart computing. Dexmier argued that achieving this transition requires ensuring the technology is socially acceptable. The presentation focused on strategic positioning rather than announcing a specific commercial launch date or detailed technical specifications for immediate consumer availability.
During Paris Fashion Week, Thélios, the eyewear division of luxury giant LVMH, showcased the spring-summer 2027 collection of American label Barton Perreira. Acquired by Thélios in 2024 for an estimated 80 million dollars, the brand retains its independence in design and production with Japanese artisans, according to co-founder Patty Perreira and managing director Cédric Moreau. The new collection features architectural inspiration with hand-bevelled Japanese acetate and titanium frames. While operating five boutiques domestically and reaching over 1,500 specialist opticians globally, the brand plans to expand its network in Europe and increase marketing investment in China and Japan. Prices remain between 400 and 700 euros, unchanged for two years, as the company leverages Thélios’s distribution capabilities without diluting its identity.
Eyewear brand ic! berlin has announced a motorsport-inspired retail pop-up experience scheduled to coincide with the Austin race weekend. This event marks the company's first-ever physical retail pop-up location. The initiative aims to provide an immersive eyewear experience linked to the racing context in Austin, Texas. Specific details regarding exact dates, product availability, or operational hours were not provided in the source material.
Ocuco has appointed Mike Sullivan to the role of Enterprise Account Executive, specifically covering the North American market. This personnel change was announced via a press release distributed by Optical Prism. The source material confirms the appointment and the geographic scope but does not provide further details regarding Sullivan’s previous experience, specific responsibilities, or the effective date of the new position beyond the announcement itself.
Superflex Kids, a brand under WestGroupe, announced the addition of four new eyewear styles to its children’s collection. The release includes two designs for boys (SFK-343 and SFK-344) and two for girls (SFK-345 and SFK-346), all featuring the brand’s signature spring-hinge flexibility and playful temple detailing. Constructed from stainless steel and handmade acetate, these frames are designed for children aged 6 through 12. Specific models offer varied aesthetics, such as laminated temples, checkered patterns, or floral prints, across multiple colorways and sizes. While the source highlights durability and accessible pricing, it does not specify exact retail costs or confirm immediate global availability beyond the announcement of these new additions to the existing portfolio distributed in over 40 countries.
ZEISS has introduced its MyoActive lens in Canada. The product is described as the first myopia management lens to apply Dynamic Signal Theory. This announcement marks the availability of the specific technology within the Canadian market.
The organizers of the international eyewear trade show MIDO have opened applications for the 2027 edition of its awards. The program features three distinct categories: Best Store Award, CSE Award, and CSE Corporate Award, which recognize businesses and projects demonstrating creativity, innovation, and forward-looking visions in retail, sustainability, and storytelling. These awards are associated with MIDO 2027, scheduled to take place from February 6 to 8, 2027, at Fiera Milano in Rho. The event is described as a hub for business connections, new collections, and industry trends. The source confirms that applications are currently open but does not specify deadlines, eligibility criteria, or prize details.
Zeiss announced that Bryan Rossi will transition from his role as head of Zeiss Vision Care Canada to become the head of Zeiss Medical Technology Canada. In addition to this new responsibility, Rossi will continue to serve as the head of Zeiss Canada and president of Carl Zeiss Canada Ltd., ensuring continuity in the leadership of the Canadian organization. The announcement was made on October 23, 2026.