EssilorLuxottica and Applied Materials to Develop Optics for AR Smart Glasses
EssilorLuxottica and Applied Materials announced a joint development agreement to accelerate the commercialization of optical systems for AI-powered smart glasses. The collaboration will focus on advanced optical technologies, including waveguides and active optical modulators.
EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in eyewear, and Applied Materials, a technology company, have entered into a long-term joint development agreement to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation optical systems for AI-integrated smart glasses. This collaboration aims to advance optical solutions for augmented reality (AR) devices.
The partnership will concentrate on developing advanced optical technologies such as waveguides, active optical modulators, and material innovations. These technologies are crucial for future smart glasses and AR experiences. Waveguides are essential for directing imagery from a display, while electro-active lenses adjust to ambient light conditions to enhance visual comfort.
By combining EssilorLuxottica's expertise in lenses and eyewear with Applied Materials' capabilities in materials engineering and nanotechnology, the companies aim to develop new optical platforms. They believe that through close collaboration and a dedicated joint research lab, they can speed up the transition of breakthrough technologies to large-scale production.
"We are convinced that the convergence of advanced optics, AI, and wearable technology will open a new generation of experiences for consumers," said Francesco Milleri, CEO of EssilorLuxottica. Gary Dickerson, CEO of Applied Materials, added that the collaboration will expedite the development and commercialization of smart glasses featuring advanced display technologies.