Google has announced a strategic partnership with premium eyewear manufacturer Luxottica Group for a range of Glass frames. The Luxottica Group owns a number of well-known brands including Ray-Ban, Oakley and Vogue Eyewear. The deal is aimed encouraging uptake of Google Glass.
The first collection of frames for Glass was announced in January. The Titanium Collection includes four titanium frames and two new styles of twist-on shades from which to choose. It was noted that the addition of frames made Glass a little less conspicuous, thereby reducing one of the perceived barriers to its uptake.
The partnership with Luxottica will increase the number of eyewear options available to Glass users and will serve to further normalize Glass amongst consumers, with well-known brands being amongst those that will feature in the collection. Luxottica has confirmed that both Ray-Ban and Oakley will be part of the collaboration. Oakley already has a great deal of experience in the wearable technology arena, having developed MP3 and HUD devices.
Luxottica promises that the new collection "will combine high-end technology with avant-garde design offering the best in style, quality and performance."
