US-based Wolfspeed announced on October 29 the commercial launch of TSiC, a technology producing optically transparent silicon carbide. The company now offers optical wafers specifically designed for waveguide displays in augmented reality glasses. The material features a high refractive index, hardness, and thermal conductivity, enabling compact optics with wide fields of view without multi-layer structures. Technical specifications for 4H polytype monocrystalline wafers include light absorption below 0.05 cm⁻¹ (450–650 nm), surface roughness under 1 nm RMS, and nominal thickness of 500 µm ± 20 µm. Commercial sizes are 150 mm and 200 mm diameters, with 300 mm samples available upon request. While prior prototypes like Orion and Goeroptics modules demonstrated SiC's utility, Wolfspeed has not disclosed prices, production volumes, or customer names, leaving the immediate effect on consumer AR eyewear costs undetermined.
Spanish lens technology provider IOT, in partnership with optical chain VisionLab, has introduced the first commercially available progressive lenses manufactured using its Light-Form technology to the Spanish market. The Light-Form method is a light-based 3D production process that creates an entire progressive lens in a single step via controlled light-guided polymerization, replacing traditional grinding and polishing. IOT claims this multi-year development reduces energy consumption by 90% and waste by 76%, requiring no water during production. This launch marks the transition from research to practical application for IOT, which originated from Complutense University Madrid in 2005. The company also identifies potential future applications in intelligent glasses and augmented reality systems.
Vision Monday and 20/20 magazine jointly introduced a digital-only smart eyewear supplement on October 30, 2026. The publication features articles analyzing the shift of smart glasses from novelty to everyday wearable tech and the evolving role of opticians. It highlights drivers such as AI integration, display-less audio/camera models, and augmented reality, citing Ray-Ban Meta’s success in hands-free media capture and live translation. The supplement addresses persistent privacy concerns, noting that 20 percent of hesitant consumers cite security apprehensions, while 10 percent worry about environmental or ethical AI issues. Experts discuss retail strategies, contrasting big-box pricing with local optical practices’ personalized care, emphasizing the need for staff to stay current on emerging technologies.
Meta announced a partnership with CNIB, a Canadian non-profit founded in 1918, to support individuals who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. The initiative aims to explore the potential of AI wearable technology by leveraging community expertise to shape accessible future products. Meta’s funding will support four key areas: engaging the community to understand their experiences, supporting peer training and demonstrations led by affected individuals, sharing insights with Meta’s product teams, and providing accessible learning resources. Additionally, Meta is donating AI glasses through CNIB’s Come to Work program to help participants assess how wearable technology can assist in securing employment and building careers. This collaboration builds on previous global accessibility efforts, including donations to blind veterans in America and work with Vision Ireland.
Povilas Grigas introduced a theoretical smart glasses concept as part of his 2024 design thesis, envisioning eyewear that integrates computing with fashion. The design features broad, rounded lenses in a silver frame made from CNC-milled grade 5 titanium and optically polished sapphire crystal. Vision sensors are strategically placed at the bridge to enable a hands-free computing experience, challenging traditional device constraints. The robust arms embrace thickness rather than concealing electronic components, creating a bold silhouette. A sophisticated leather charging case is included in the proposal. However, the concept remains theoretical, with unresolved details regarding battery life and comfort. No commercial launch or availability has been announced, distinguishing this academic exploration from market-ready products.
Rokid has announced its latest AI Glasses, named Rokid Color, which feature dual full-color microLED display engines. These glasses weigh 55 grams and represent the company's first microLED-powered color AI eyewear. Shipping is scheduled to begin in April 2027, with a starting price of $750 for the model equipped with 2 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. The company disclosed that the complete optical display engine has a volume of 0.16 cc but did not provide further specifications on the microdisplays.
According to a Korea Herald report cited by Acuité, Samsung may launch its first connected glasses, tentatively referred to as Galaxy Glasses or Intelligent Eyewear, in November 2026. The device features a screen-free design integrating cameras, microphones, and speakers, relying on Google’s Gemini assistant via a connected Galaxy smartphone for functions like translation and navigation. Samsung claims up to nine hours of battery life with a charging case. Frame partners include Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. The product aims to be lighter than Ray-Ban Meta glasses, though specific weight targets remain unconfirmed. Privacy measures include recording-indicating LEDs. A second-generation model with a color display is reportedly in development without a confirmed timeline. Pricing and available markets have not been disclosed.
Google introduced support for connecting Android XR smart glasses to smartphones in version 26.42 of Google Play services, released on October 26. This update, listed under Device Connectivity, prepares the mobile ecosystem for upcoming AI-powered glasses featuring Gemini integration. The company did not disclose compatible eyewear models, minimum smartphone requirements, or technical pairing details, noting that some features may remain experimental or roll out gradually. This change occurs on the smartphone side rather than as an OS update for the glasses themselves. It follows May 2026 announcements of devices co-developed with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker, which include audio-only and display-equipped variants. While this confirms software infrastructure readiness, it does not yet enable users to connect specific hardware models.
AR Insider estimates that Meta Reality Labs sold approximately 1.76 million XR devices in Q3, comprising 1.47 million smart glasses and 286,000 VR headsets. The analysis reverse-engineers these figures from Meta’s $443 million Reality Labs revenue, which fell 5.7% year-over-year despite a 20% growth in Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses sales reported by EssilorLuxottica. Key estimates include 1.05 million Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses units, 165,000 Oakley HSTN units, and 162,000 Quest 3s units. The report notes that while smart glasses drive volume, higher-priced VR headset fluctuations significantly impact revenue. Meta Reality Labs recorded $4.13 billion in losses for the quarter, though this narrowed from Q2.
The Vision Council released its Consumer inSights Q3 2026 report, surveying over 12,000 U.S. adults to analyze optical category purchasing trends. Findings indicate stable market conditions with consumers shifting toward the $100–$199 price range, while spending under $100 or over $200 declined. The data reveals that in-person buyers reported higher average out-of-pocket costs than online shoppers, though 53% of online buyers purchased multiple pairs compared to 36% of in-person shoppers. Managed vision care coverage reached a five-quarter high at 72%. Smart eyewear adoption among recent purchasers fell three percentage points to 13%. Additionally, 59% of respondents spent less than $100 on contact lenses, the highest share in five quarters. Gen Z and Millennials drove increased eye exam rates, while Gen X reported the lowest.
Vuzix Corporation announced a distribution agreement with Commercial Electronics Systems (CES), a Denver-based value-added distributor serving Colorado, Texas, and Wyoming. CES has received and begun shipping against an initial six-figure order for Vuzix LX1 smart glasses. The partnership aims to expand Vuzix's enterprise sales channel by integrating smart glasses into CES's new Automation and Intelligent Infrastructure division, targeting commercial automation and workforce modernization markets. CES will leverage its experience in security and fire protection to introduce wearable technology for hands-free information access and remote support. Vuzix CEO Paul Travers noted that CES is building a broader automation business around customer needs rather than simply reselling hardware.
Reebok smart glasses, developed with Lucyd, were named among Time magazine’s best inventions of 2026. Designed for athletes like runners and cyclists, the eyewear features open-ear air-conduction speakers in the temples, allowing users to listen to music, take calls, or receive voice instructions while remaining aware of ambient sounds. The frames weigh between 50 and 58 grams and include noise-reducing microphones, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and an announced battery life exceeding eight hours. Adjustable nose pads and temple tips enhance stability during exercise. The collection comprises six models starting at $149, offering polarized or photochromic lenses depending on the version. Notably, the Nitrous model supports prescription lenses. The companion Lucyd app provides real-time translation and a talkie-walkie mode for communication between athletes or coaches.
EyeFly, a brand under HOUSE of MODO, has announced three new smart audio eyewear styles: Axis, Nova, and Amp. These additions follow the debut style Drift. Each frame offers open-ear audio via Bluetooth-enabled Smart Tech Temples, which can be swapped for regular temples to convert the glasses into classic eyewear. The designs are available as prescription-ready optical frames with blue light filtering lenses or as ready-to-wear sunglasses. All models weigh 30 grams and integrate with apps for navigation, voice assistants, real-time translation, health tracking, and audio notes. Colorways range from Black, Blue, and Smoke to Olive, Burgundy, and Havana.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INMO announced the GO 3 AR smart glasses, featuring dual microLED displays. The company disclosed limited technical specifications, confirming only that the displays offer 1,500 nits of brightness to the eye and a 30-degree field of view. No further details were provided. The previous generation, the GO 2 AR, utilized JBD's monochrome green 0.13-inch VGA microdisplays. While it is likely that the GO 3 AR also uses JBD-produced microdisplays, this supplier relationship has not been confirmed by INMO.
During the Q3 earnings call on October 21, 2026, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a strategic realignment for Reality Labs. The division will prioritize investments in personal artificial intelligence and smart glasses, specifically developing the Muse AI assistant, while limiting new virtual reality device releases to instances of significant technological advancement. Meta plans to transition its wearables business model from high-margin hardware sales to software services and subscriptions. In 2026, the Muse Spark neural network replaced Llama 4 in most smart glasses. Financially, Reality Labs reported $443 million in Q3 revenue, a 5.7% year-over-year decrease attributed to lower Quest sales partially offset by smart glasses growth. Operating losses narrowed by 6.8% to $4.129 billion. Projections indicate full-year 2026 operating losses of $18–19 billion, expected to drop to approximately $15 billion in 2027 due to this investment redistribution.
Snap Inc. announced that actor Robert Downey Jr. has joined its augmented reality glasses subsidiary, SPECS, as honorary Chief Customer Experience Officer (CCEO). In this role, he will collaborate on hardware development, shape new Lens experiences, and produce original content exploring applications in education, medicine, and manufacturing. The appointment coincides with the launch of a series of episodes testing the SPECS see-through AR glasses, which cost USD $2,195 and are scheduled to begin shipping later this fall in the United States, United Kingdom, and France. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel stated the partnership aims to bring Downey’s long-standing vision for the technology to life. Initial broadcast appearances occurred during an NBA game on October 20, with another episode debuting during the World Series on October 23.
Innovative Eyewear announced that its Reebok sport smart eyewear collection, developed under the Lucyd brand, was named to TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2026 list. The recognition in the Audio Sunglasses for Athletes category highlighted features including open-ear audio, noise-cancelling capabilities, polarized lenses, and prescription-ready options. CEO Harrison Gross stated the award indicates strong product-market fit. The selection places the glasses among eight other vision technology innovations on the 300-item list, such as Essilor Stellest lenses and Science Corporation’s PRIMA subretinal implant system. While PRIMA is available in Europe with an FDA humanitarian designation received in July 2026, OneCourt’s assistive device is scheduled to ship at-home versions in December.
The Victorian government announced on October 21 that students in government, Catholic and independent schools must switch off and store smart glasses during school hours starting the 2027 school year. In government schools, teachers, parents and volunteers are prohibited from wearing smart glasses or other covert filming devices on school grounds or at off-site activities at any time, except as a reasonable adjustment for disability. Penalties have not been set. Extending the adult ban to private schools requires legislation after the next state election. The rule covers camera-equipped glasses but names no specific companies or products.
At the September MicroLED and AR/VR Connect conference in Eindhoven, a notable shift emerged as many MicroLED companies emphasized optical interconnects and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) for AI data centers. The event, which has grown 20–30% annually, also featured discussions on optical see-through (OST) augmented reality. Panelists noted that green-only MicroLEDs currently dominate small, ~30° field-of-view products, primarily used in Asia for English translation. However, full-color MicroLED solutions remain challenged by size and cost constraints compared to LCOS. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the manufacturing friction of integrating prescriptions into AR glasses and skepticism toward claims that $100 component costs are necessary to reach 100 million units.
EssilorLuxottica reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of €7.486 billion, a 7.2% increase at constant currency rates compared to Q3 2025. The wearables segment, including AI glasses and Nuance Audio, generated €486 million (approximately 6.5% of total group revenue), marking a 20% growth at constant currency rates from €370 million in the prior year. Direct-to-Consumer sales rose 10.6% at constant currency rates to €4.093 billion, while Professional Solutions grew 3.4% to €3.393 billion. Online commerce represented 7% of group revenue with slight growth. Myopia management solutions increased by 24% for both the quarter and the first nine months. Regionally, Asia-Pacific saw the highest growth at 15.7% at constant currency rates, followed by EMEA at 7.5%, North America at 4.7%, and Latin America at 7.1%. Nuance Audio Plus was launched in mid-September.
Innovative Eyewear, Inc. announced that its Reebok sport smart eyewear collection received the Time Magazine Best Inventions of 2026 award. The lineup comprises ten styles designed for outdoor athletes, featuring a new audio system, adjustable rubberized nosepieces and ear grips, lens vents to prevent fogging, and Walkie-talkie connectivity via the Lucyd app. Polarized and light-adaptive models are available, with all Nitrous versions fully prescription adaptable. CEO Harrison Gross stated the recognition indicates product-market fit and design quality, noting it follows a recent Red Dot award for Lucyd Armor. The collection is currently available at Lucyd.co with or without prescription options.
At Meta Connect 2026, the company emphasized its shift toward hardware through a keynote featuring a wall of smart glasses. Announced products included Meta Display Glasses priced at $799, camera-less Ray-Ban Meta Audio, and Meta VR Glasses. The event highlighted strong market performance, citing nearly 1.8 million XR units sold in Q2 and a 67% SteamVR ecosystem capture. Lifetime sales figures reported were 26.7 million for Quest devices and 8.9 million for Ray-Ban Metas. Despite Reality Labs’ $4.62 billion operating loss in Q2, Meta projected confidence, leveraging recent stock gains driven by Muse AI releases to position itself as an innovator rather than solely a software entity.
ARtillery Intelligence projects global spatial computing revenue will grow from $28.2 billion in 2025 to $59.7 billion in 2030, representing a 16.2 percent compound annual growth rate. The forecast identifies AI-powered smart glasses as a primary driver, with Meta’s earnings showing these devices offsetting declines in consumer VR. While VR currently leads in total revenue ($13.75 billion last year) due to established software ecosystems, non-display AI glasses lead in unit sales and are projected to challenge VR’s revenue position. Mobile AR generated an estimated $8.9 billion in 2025, primarily through enterprise productivity and B2B2C marketing rather than direct consumer hardware purchases. The report highlights a strategic shift toward diversification into purpose-built form factors, including flat AR displays and full spatial experiences, though specific product launches remain anticipated for 2027 and 2028.
Researchers from Northwestern University introduced GlassTENG, an experimental smart glasses prototype that detects pulse, blinking, and facial movements using three flexible triboelectric nanogenerators embedded in the frame. Presented at ISWC 2026, the system converts mechanical pressure changes into electrical signals without cameras or skin-contact electrodes. In tests with 20 volunteers, a machine learning algorithm recognized actions with 93.8% overall accuracy, achieving 99% for blinking and teeth tapping but only 55% for speech detection. Pulse measurement showed an average absolute error of 1.82 beats per minute compared to a Polar H10 chest strap during rest. The analog circuit consumes 4.1 microwatts across three channels, excluding microcontroller and wireless components. Full autonomy without a battery has not yet been demonstrated, and the prototype does not provide medical diagnostics.
Optica 2000, part of the EssilorLuxottica group, announced it will add the new Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3) smart glasses to its catalog starting in October. The Gen 3 collection features updated designs including Wayfarer, Aviator, and Zena frames, with the Aviator model joining the Ray-Ban Meta line for the first time. Key hardware upgrades include a 3K Ultra HD camera, a six-microphone system, a customizable action button, flexible temples, and up to nine hours of battery life. The glasses integrate Meta AI for hands-free image capture, real-time translation, and local recommendations without requiring a phone connection. Lens options range from clear and solar varieties, such as Transitions® and Polarized, to unrestricted prescription capabilities. Additionally, Blayzer Optics (Gen 2) and Scriber Optics (Gen 2) frames have been expanded with new color options.
Developer RandyNorthrup released an unofficial, AGPL-3.0 plugin named Meta G Link Direct that streams the camera of Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 glasses into OBS Studio on Windows. The tool uses the glasses' own 2.4GHz Wi-Fi for video and Bluetooth for control, requiring no phone or router. However, setup makes the PC the exclusive owner, disconnecting the glasses from the Meta AI app. Currently in beta, it supports tested 720x1280 portrait video at 30fps with audio disabled by default. Streaming drains battery in approximately 35–40 minutes, though this is unconfirmed. Reconnection features and identity verification are incomplete. Meta has no affiliation with the project, which relies on public protocol definitions without including Meta code.
The Norwegian government announced its intention to temporarily ban the use of AI-powered smart glasses in specific public locations, including parks, museums, shopping centers, and schools. Authorities cite concerns that embedded cameras and microphones enable covert recording of individuals without consent. Minister of Digitalization Torgeir Micaelsen stated that the spread of such devices poses a risk of hidden surveillance. The proposed legislation aims to provide time for developing permanent regulations on wearable electronics. While a complete prohibition is not planned, private use will remain permitted with exceptions for people with disabilities who require these devices as assistive technology. The government has not yet defined which specific device categories will be restricted, considering options ranging from camera-equipped glasses to broader wearable classes. Separately, two Socialist Left Party MPs proposed stricter measures banning both use and sales of covert-surveillance wearables. No new bans have entered into force.
A 12-minute documentary titled "MA VIE WORLD TOUR," shot almost entirely on Ray-Ban Meta glasses during Doja Cat’s European tour, premieres on her YouTube channel on October 23. Directed by Quinn Whitney Wilson, the film captures footage across seven countries using glasses worn by the artist and crew. Concurrently, Meta hosts a Doja Cat takeover at its Los Angeles store from October 17 to 25, displaying performance outfits and custom Gen 3 frames. Visitors can demo Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 3) Zena and Aviator models, priced at $449 in the US. Buyers receive limited collectibles while supplies last. Meta provides no technical camera specifications for the shoot, noting only that developer guidance caps capture resolution at 720x1280.
Rokid has opened what it claims is the world's first unmanned AI glasses experience store at Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. The shop features eight self-service zones demonstrating functions like real-time translation and navigation on Rokid Glasses' in-lens waveguide display, allowing customers to try products and complete automated checkout without staff assistance. To incentivize early adoption, the first 500 buyers at the physical location receive a Joy Pack valued by Rokid at HK$4,688 (approx. $600), which includes Rokid Max AR glasses and a Rokid Station streaming device. This promotion extends to participating online channels and eight retailers, including Optical 88 and Fortress, until October 31 or while supplies last. The release does not specify the retail price of the Rokid Glasses themselves.
Two unnamed smart glasses manufacturers are prioritizing frame aesthetics and comfort in their product designs. This approach contrasts with the majority of current market offerings, which are typically developed by technology companies that prioritize technical features before adapting them into acceptable form factors. The source notes that traditional tech-led designs often result in frames that merely resemble eyewear while attempting to minimize weight on the nose. Specific details regarding the identities of these two makers, their product names, or launch timelines were not provided in the excerpt.
Meta and EssilorLuxottica have announced a collaboration with Milan’s Pinacoteca di Brera to test AI glasses for blind and visually impaired visitors. Presented on Tuesday, the initiative, titled "Sensing Art — Discovering Masterpieces Beyond What Meets the Eye," integrates technology into the Grande Brera app as an alternative to the traditional DescriVivendo tour. The system allows users to activate artwork recognition for eight masterpieces, including works by Hayez, Mantegna, and Raphael, while listening to audio descriptions via temple speakers. Visitors can query Meta AI about their environment and connect with sighted volunteers through Be My Eyes integration. Developed with institutions like ANS and UICI, the trial is available at the museum upon reservation.
On October 14, Meta announced the launch of "Sensing Art," a pilot program developed with the Pinacoteca di Brera and EssilorLuxottica. The initiative enables blind and low-vision visitors to use AI glasses to recognize eight specific artworks and hear pre-recorded audio descriptions via open-ear speakers. These descriptions are sourced from the museum’s existing Grande Brera app, developed by Associazione Nazionale Subvedenti using the DescriVedendo method, rather than generated by an AI model on the spot. The glasses also integrate Be My Eyes for real-time volunteer support and Meta AI for contextual questions. Access is by reservation only, available Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:30. Meta did not disclose the specific hardware model, pilot end date, or visitor numbers.
SammyGuru reports that Samsung’s first smart glasses weigh approximately 41 grams with standard lenses, available in 26 frame and color combinations across partners Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. The source states sales may begin in November, with Gentle Monster models in South Korea and the US, and Warby Parker models exclusively in the US via brand stores, websites, and Samsung Experience Stores. Hardware specifications reportedly include the Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platform, 2GB RAM, 64GB storage, a 12MP camera, and open-ear audio without a display. Samsung has not officially confirmed the weight, price, or release date, though its July announcement detailed battery life and the processor. Galaxy-specific features require recent Galaxy devices running One UI 9 or later.