Facebook to Launch 'Smart Glasses' Next Year in Partnership with Ray-Ban

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] Facebook is partnering with Ray-Ban, famous for sunglasses, to launch its first 'smart glasses' next year.

According to the economic media CNBC, Facebook announced on the 16th (local time) at the 'Facebook Connect Livestream' event that it has formed a partnership with the Italian Luxottica Group, which owns the Ray-Ban brand. Both parties will jointly develop smart glasses aiming for a release next year. Smart glasses refer to glasses-shaped devices equipped with see-through functionality and a computer.

Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook, said, "After spending time with their (Ray-Ban) team and visiting the factory, I realized they are the optimal partner to help create the best glasses with the best technology."

He added, "I cannot specify the product specifications," but expressed confidence in the upcoming smart glasses, saying, "It will be the path to the next step of augmented reality (AR) glasses." He also hinted that the exterior design has been enhanced, saying, "They also look quite good."

Before launching the smart glasses, Facebook will introduce 'Project Aria' research glasses this month to collect video, eye-tracking, and location information in public places.

Andrew Bosworth, head of Facebook hardware, explained, "Starting in September, Facebook employees and partner company employees will wear Project Aria glasses around the company and in public places," adding, "They do not have AR functions and are not for sale." He further stated, "They are research equipment to help develop the software and hardware needed to see how AR glasses actually work."