Dive Brief:
- Warby Parker is introducing the brand’s first Intelligent Eyewear frame built with technology from Google and Samsung, according to a press release.
- The frames use Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, and are compatible with the Android XR operating system. With the glasses, wearers can access information, use mobile apps, manage daily tasks and more, according to the release.
- The company plans to launch the eyewear line this fall with multiple optical and sunglass options that will support a broad range of prescriptions, per the release.
Dive Insight:
Warby Parker previously hinted at the upcoming launch of its AI glasses in collaboration with Samsung and Google. The eyewear brand’s AI ambitions are now coming into focus.
When crafting its smart eyewear collection, Warby Parker drew inspiration from the company’s style archive created by its New York City design team as well as its proprietary fit and comfort data, the company said. Crafted with ultra-lightweight nylon, the company hopes wearers will use the glasses daily.
“These glasses give you powerful new tools, but they’re designed to feel intuitive and unobtrusive so you can stay focused on the people and moments in front of you,” Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, said in a statement. “Every detail and curve was considered for extended, everyday use, from the fit and balance of the frame to enhanced grip and stability.”
Like Warby Parker, several brands have been trying to crack the code on smart glasses in recent years. In 2023, Innovative Eyewear struck a licensing deal with Authentic Brands Group to create the Nautica Smart Eyewear collection. The following year, Innovative Eyewear introduced the Eddie Bauer Smart Eyewear collection, featuring voice access to ChatGPT.
Meanwhile, other tech players have tried their hand at popularizing tech-enabled glasses. In 2024, Meta hosted a temporary pop-up shop in Los Angeles, where the company promoted its Ray-Ban Meta glasses. The glasses featured Meta’s smart AI assistant. The company went on to sign a 10-year lease for its Manhattan Meta Lab NYC store, wherein shoppers can test out its AI glasses.
Warby Parker has come a long way from its early days, when customers tried on the brand’s eyewear in Blumenthal’s apartment. The company recently decided to sunset its home try-on program and instead focus on reaching customers in person through its stores and online through digital tools.
The company recently reported its first full-year net income, and in Q1 reported that net revenue increased 8.3% to $242.4 million.
