True innovation comes from looking at the world through different lenses

The collaboration between Ray-Ban and Meta exemplifies the seamless integration of traditional design with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a product that feels both familiar and revolutionary. The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses mark a bold entry into the realm of wearable technology, redefining what eyewear can achieve. At the core of this innovation lies the convergence of augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and smart connectivity—a powerful trifecta poised to reshape how we interact with the world around us.

For consumers, the promise of these smart glasses is immense. From a design perspective, the innovation extends beyond the technology itself. Unlike earlier, bulky iterations of wearable tech, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses prioritize discretion and elegance, offering a product that integrates seamlessly into everyday life. This design-forward approach ensures that the glasses remain both functional and stylish, bridging the gap between practicality and aesthetic appeal.

However, the road ahead is not without challenges. Privacy concerns, battery life limitations, and questions of affordability are significant hurdles that must be addressed for these smart glasses to achieve widespread adoption. Their success will ultimately hinge on how effectively they balance utility, comfort, and ethical considerations, ensuring that innovation aligns with the values and expectations of modern consumers.

To delve deeper into the opportunities for innovation in the eyewear industry, I spoke with Matteo Battiston, Chief Design Officer at EssilorLuxottica. With the groundbreaking advancements introduced by Ray-Ban and Meta making waves in the market, the timing for such a discussion could not have been better. For some, this partnership represents a daring gamble; for others, it’s an inevitable step into the future.

Battiston’s insights offered a compelling perspective on how a global leader like EssilorLuxottica envisions the evolution of eyewear. His vision underscores the industry’s steady progression, driven by the demands of the times we live in. It’s a powerful reminder that few product categories are ever truly saturated. Technological advancements, such as the development of more sustainable materials, for instance, continue to open doors to solutions that were previously unimaginable.

What does it involve to be the Chief Design Officer at a company like EssilorLuxottica? What are the duties and responsibilities associated with this role?

Matteo Battiston:

“As Chief Design Officer at EssilorLuxottica, my role revolves around defining the creative vision and strategy for our eyewear portfolio, which encompasses some of the most iconic brands globally, including Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Persol. My responsibilities span overseeing product design, ensuring alignment with brand identity, and driving innovation to meet consumer needs. I collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—from engineering and marketing to manufacturing—to bring concepts to life, ensuring every product reflects our commitment to quality, functionality, and style.

Leadership in this role also involves anticipating trends, fostering a culture of creativity, and mentoring a talented team of designers to continuously push the boundaries of what eyewear can achieve.”

What role does design (and a design team) play in a product category like eyewear?

Matteo Battiston:

“Design in eyewear is essential because glasses are much more than functional tools; they’re personal style statements and, increasingly, technological interfaces. The design team is tasked with merging aesthetics, ergonomics, and innovation to create products that not only look and feel great but also cater to diverse needs, from vision correction to smart technology.

Our role is to make eyewear both timeless and forward-thinking, balancing tradition with cutting-edge advancements. Every detail, from material choices to fit and durability, must be meticulously considered to ensure our products resonate with wearers around the world.”

Seemingly a product that offers little room for innovation, what do you think are the areas of evolution for the category you represent? In what ways can it actually innovate?

Matteo Battiston:

“At first glance, eyewear might seem like a static product, but it’s actually a fascinating category with tremendous room for growth. One area of evolution lies in materials. There’s been a big push toward making frames lighter, more durable, and eco-friendly. Imagine glasses made from bio-based or recycled materials that are not only stylish but also kinder to the planet.

Technology integration is another exciting frontier. Glasses are becoming smarter, with features like augmented reality displays, voice assistants, and even health-monitoring sensors. The challenge—and the opportunity—is embedding these technologies in a way that feels natural, so they enhance daily life without losing the classic appeal of traditional eyewear.

Personalization is also transforming the industry. With advancements in AI and digital tools, we’re getting closer to creating eyewear that’s uniquely tailored to each person—not just in style, but in fit and function. This makes glasses feel more like an extension of you rather than just an accessory.

Then there’s the potential for glasses to play a larger role in healthcare. They could monitor things like eye strain or screen exposure and even track overall health metrics. It’s about turning something you wear every day into a tool that supports your well-being.

Innovation in eyewear is really about merging function, fashion, and technology. By addressing these areas, we’re redefining what glasses can do and ensuring they remain indispensable in people’s lives.”

You recently won the iF Award with your Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. What exactly are they? How did the project come about and what innovations does it incorporate?

Matteo Battiston:

“The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are a bold step into the future—a fusion of iconic design and groundbreaking technology, and one of the first products to truly embrace the potential of artificial intelligence in everyday eyewear. Developed in collaboration with Meta, these glasses aren’t just an accessory; they’re a gateway to an enhanced way of living.

With AI at their core, they enable wearers to capture life as it happens, hands-free, through intelligent photo and video capabilities. Built-in microphones and speakers create a seamless connection to the world around you, while the ability to interact effortlessly with social platforms redefines how we share and connect. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about empowering people to experience the world without barriers, with technology working quietly in the background.

The project was born from a vision to reimagine what eyewear could be—a blend of timeless style and cutting-edge functionality. We saw glasses not just as a tool for vision correction or a style statement but as a powerful platform for innovation. By embedding artificial intelligence into something so familiar, we’re making advanced technology accessible, intuitive, and beautifully integrated into daily life.

Winning the iF Award is a testament to this vision. It reflects our belief that the future of wearable technology is about more than gadgets—it’s about creating meaningful, human-centered experiences. The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses mark the beginning of a new era, where AI doesn’t just assist us but becomes a natural extension of who we are.”

Do you think that a product like the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses could lead EssilorLuxottica into new business areas, such as content creation?

Matteo Battiston:

“Absolutely, smart glasses like these have the potential to open new avenues for EssilorLuxottica. By equipping wearers with tools to capture and share experiences, we’re venturing into the realm of content creation. This aligns with broader trends where hardware becomes a gateway to user-generated content and social engagement.

However, our primary focus remains on enhancing the eyewear experience. If content creation emerges as a natural extension of that goal, it will be pursued in partnership with platforms that specialize in it, ensuring that we leverage their expertise while staying true to our core mission.”

Looking at the Apple Vision Pro, what differences or similarities do you see compared to your Smart Glasses? Can they be considered different solutions for a common trend in some way?

Matteo Battiston:

“The Apple Vision Pro and Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses cater to different aspects of a shared vision for wearable technology. The Vision Pro is a high-tech, immersive device focused on augmented reality and productivity, offering a more contained experience. In contrast, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses emphasize accessibility, style, and everyday utility, blending seamlessly into a wearer’s lifestyle.

Both products reflect a common trend: the convergence of fashion and technology. They signal a future where wearables are increasingly integrated into daily life, enhancing how we connect, create, and interact with the world. While the approaches differ, they complement each other in advancing this overarching trend.”