Google Glass may have been making more waves than usual over the past couple of months, but one thing that has continuously followed the high-tech eyewear is the criticism of it‘s look.
I mean, let‘s be honest, from a style point of view, Google Glass is definitely not the Prada of eyewear. In fact, for someone who cares more about the look of their glasses than its technical abilities, Google Glass is ugly.
And, finally, it seems as though Google has caught on to this.
The mega company announced yesterday that it will be partnering with Luxottica, to help establish Google glass as both a tech must-have and a fashionable accessory.
Never heard of Luxottica? Neither have we. However, we are very familiar with it‘s subsequent companies. Luxottica is the parent company of Ray-Ban and Oakley – no doubt two of the biggest eyewear companies on the planet.
Ray-Ban and Oakley have both climbed on board with Google Glass and will now design and manufacture stylish, brand-specific frames for Glass.
This means that the high-tech, low-style Google Glass devices will now incorporate the distinctive styles of Ray-Ban and Oakley into their frame design. By choosing Ray-Ban and Oakley, Google will now firmly place it‘s Glass device within the frame of two very well known (and much loved) eyewear brands.
Oakley is known for it‘s tech-inspired and modern design. There have been countless Oakley glasses that feature something cool, innovative and without a doubt high-tech. The eyewear brand is also a popular choice for professional sportsmen and women. Another avenue that we‘re sure Google Glass would like to tap into.
Ray-Ban, on the other hand, is a worldwide favourite. It‘s classic design and trendy reputation will also boost Google‘s efforts to get in with the cool kids. With Ray-Ban being perhaps best known for their super stylish (and ageless) Wayfarers and Aviator sunglasses, we can only hope that they come up with something equally classy for Google Glass.
A few months ago, it was rumoured that Google had plans to open Glass retail stores. However, with this new partnership with Luxottica, it is very likely that they will use the company‘s (already existing) retail outlets to sell the new, more fashionable Glass devices.
“Luxottica‘s retail and wholesale distribution channels will serve us well when we make Glass available to more people down the road“ Google said in their statement announcing the partnership.
While no details have been released on when these new Google Glass designs will be available, we are pretty sure that it won‘t make the device any less expensive.
Currently, Google Glass retails for about $1,500 in the US. Make that a Ray-Ban Glass device, and you‘re surely looking at more.
Neither Google or Luxottica have announced when these updated devices will be availble.
We don‘t really know how much you will be able to change the look of the existing Google Glass device – but hey, if Ray-Ban and Oakley can make it look nicer, then we might consider it. Might.
Source: Mashable
