In a move that cements its ambitions in the wearable AI space, Meta has invested €3B ($3.5B) for a nearly 3% stake in EssilorLuxottica, the global eyewear powerhouse behind Ray-Ban and Oakley. This strategic investment is more than just financial it represents a bold step toward mainstreaming smart glasses and scaling immersive technology beyond niche adoption. By strengthening its partnership with EssilorLuxottica, Meta gains deeper influence over hardware design, manufacturing, and global distribution critical elements in turning futuristic tech into everyday essentials.
The collaboration has already brought to life Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which seamlessly blend iconic style with AI-driven utility. But this latest deal signals that Meta isn’t just experimenting it’s betting on smart eyewear as a gateway to the next era of computing. With discussions of a potential stake increase to 5% also on the horizon, the partnership reflects both long-term vision and the recognition that wearable AI will only succeed at the intersection of design, function, and global reach.
At its core, this investment underscores Meta’s belief that the future of technology will be worn, not just carried. By aligning with EssilorLuxottica’s heritage of craftsmanship and global distribution power, Meta is setting the stage for smart glasses to move from early adopters to the mainstream market.
This is more than a partnership it’s a step toward reshaping how we see, connect, and experience the world. And with Meta doubling down on wearable AI, the future of computing might just be resting on the bridge of our noses.