Meta and EssilorLuxottica Double Down: AI Glasses Production to Hit 20 Million Pairs

The partnership between tech giant Meta and optical industry leader EssilorLuxottica (owner of Ray-Ban and Oakley) is reaching new heights. According to Bloomberg, the companies are discussing a massive expansion in the production of smart glasses integrated with artificial intelligence.

The goal is ambitious: not only to meet surging consumer demand but to spearhead a technological shift where wearable devices begin to replace traditional smartphones.

Scaling Production: Ambitions for 2026

The success of the latest AI glasses has exceeded analyst expectations. The current target of 10 million units may be reached ahead of schedule, prompting the partners to revise their strategy:

• Base Goal: Increasing annual capacity to 20 million pairs by the end of 2026.
• Optimistic Forecast: If demand remains high, production could reach 30 million pairs.

Strategic Move: Life After the Smartphone

For Mark Zuckerberg, the smart glasses project is a path to "digital sovereignty." Owning its own hardware platform will allow Meta* to reduce its dependence on Apple and Google ecosystems, ensuring direct contact with users via AI interfaces.

EssilorLuxottica CEO Francesco Milleri shares this vision. He views AI glasses not as a mere fashion accessory, but as a full-fledged replacement for smartphones. In his view, wearables and medical technology will be the primary growth drivers for the company over the next decade.

Challenges and Economic Risks

Despite the optimism, forced growth comes with significant challenges for EssilorLuxottica:

1. Factory Modernization: Mass-producing complex electronics requires massive capital investment to retool traditional optical plants.
2. Lower Margins: Analysts note that profits from high-tech glasses are currently lower than from classic luxury frames due to the high cost of components.

Competition in the Wearable AI Market

Meta* aims to secure a leading position before competitors flood the market:

• Meta and Oakley: Have already launched an aggressive marketing campaign for the Vanguard AI glasses, targeting professional athletes.
• Google Alliance: The tech giant has teamed up with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker. The release of their first AI glasses is planned for 2026.