Kering Eyewear, Warby Parker and Gentle Monster have partnered with Google to develop smart glasses powered by artificial intelligence (AI) under the tech company’s Android XR brand.
The frames were said to combine cutting-edge design, intelligent features and human-centric technology, while seamlessly integrating into everyday life.
Roberto Vedovotto, founder, president and CEO of Kering Eyewear, said: ‘We are honoured to share the values of innovation and forward thinking with Google and we are proud to partner with them to explore new horizons for the future development of our company.
‘Together, we are shaping a product that people will want to wear: a pair of masterfully designed, high-quality, stylish glasses that unlock the potential of artificial intelligence, while redefining the way of interacting with both the real and virtual worlds.’
The co-founder and CEO of US-based Warby Parker, Dave Gilboa, said multi-modal AI was perfectly suited for glasses and enabled real-time context and intelligence to augment the wearer’s surroundings as they moved through the world.
‘We couldn’t be more excited to be partnering with Google to bring together the best of AI and the best of eyewear,’ he added.
The companies intended to release a series of products over time and the first line of AI-powered, prescription and non-prescription eyewear would launch after 2025.
Google also committed up to $75m for Warby Parker’s product development and commercialisation costs, as well as a $75m investment into Warby Parker, at Warby Parker’s option and subject to reaching certain collaboration milestones.
