The latest trends in eyewear are incorporating the digital world by mixing modern technology with traditional frames to create smart eyeglasses. Since the debut of the Glass™ wearable device in 2012, smart glasses have come a long way. The doctors at Eric G. Stocker, OD, in Amherst, OH, are excited to share new advancements and discuss all you need to know about the option. 

What Are Smart Eyeglasses?

Smart eyeglasses are augmented reality (AR) machines that overlay digital data on the physical world by projecting images on or in lenses. In simple terms, they are wearable computers that respond to touch, visual, and voice commands. Instead of holding up a smartphone, users can interact with their glasses. Like normal lenses, however, smart ones will need to be fitted to your unique eye specifications — including prescription and eye distance — so the displayed image is crisp.

While there are potentially limitless benefits and uses of this new technology, common ones include:

• Text and phone notifications
• Weather updates
• Maps and directions
• Sports scores
• Grocery lists 
• Monitoring heart rate
• Video streaming
• Taking photo or video clips

Who Is Making Them?

The tech world is most excited about three specific companies: Apple®, Vuzix®, and Intel®.

• Apple: According to Bloomberg Technology, the company is currently working on smart glasses to succeed their popular iPhone® models. It’s widely suspected that they will replace them, as Apple tends to make all-purpose devices. Many analysts are expecting the glasses to debut in 2019 and roll out in 2020. 
• Vuzix: Amazon® recently paired with Vuzix Corp. to roll out a new pair of smart glasses that will be compatible with the Alexa™ voice assistant. Wearers must already be or become Amazon customers to use Alexa’s capabilities, which include music playback and checking sports scores.
• Intel: Intel’s newest glasses are more minimalistic than the Glass device, with a thinner and lighter frame. One interesting feature is that the displayed data is not visible to people opposite the wearer. Also, to keep data from being distracting, Intel design it to appear only when the wearer glances at the bottom of the frame.

Ready to find a pair of eyeglasses? Smart or otherwise, you can schedule an exam and pick up your favorite brand at Eric G. Stocker, OD. Backed by nearly 30 years of experience, their practice aims to improve their clients’ vision and comfort. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 988-4419 today. You can also visit their website for more information about care and treatment options.