A Beginners Guide to this Wearable Tech Accessory
The term “smart eyewear” may conjure up images of futuristic spectacles straight out of a Sci-Fi movie or minimalist frames housing an intricate communications system that gives James Bond the tools he needs at the touch of a button. But wearable tech isn’t some farfetched prop, it’s a growing trend that’s turning everyday accessories into extensions of our other smart devices.
Those interested in adding this multipurpose protective eyewear to their wardrobe selections should consider the main purpose of this purchase – whether you’re looking for a new way to capture the world around you, wanting to invest in a hands-free listening alternative, or just dipping your toe in the wearable tech waters – we’ve picked out a few of our favorites to help you navigate the growing field of options.
For Visual Storytellers and Content Creators
Just an average pair of sunglasses, right? Not these specs. Ray-Ban’s Stories were developed in partnership with Meta to capture images and video in addition to doubling as Bluetooth headphones, with both voice and touch control options.
Stories’ dual 5MP cameras allow you to take hands-free, high-quality photos and videos with clear sound from the frame’s three built-in microphones. Then import, edit, and share your content with the Facebook View app. You can also take calls, catchup on your favorite podcast, or get in the zone with your work-out playlist using Stories’ discrete open-ear speakers.
And if you’re worried about finding a pair to fit your style – don’t. You have your pick of three different Ray-Ban frames, five frame colors, and six different types of lenses.
Meta isn’t the only social media company diving into the smart eyewear world. Snapchat’s Snap Spectacles 3 features two HD cameras and four microphones.
Inspired by the human eye, the lenses sit on the two top corners of the frame for depth perception, capturing clear, colorful photos and videos from slightly different angles that combine to create a three-dimensional effect. When you’re ready to share your content, connect Spectacles to your phone via Bluetooth to instantly upload and edit on your Snapchat app.
The unique round lens, stainless-steel frames are light weight, yet sturdy, and come in two color options: black or rose gold finish.
For On-The-Go Listeners
Bose is synonymous with high quality audio products, and their sunglasses are no exception. Originally debuting in 2019, the newest generation of Frames harnesses exclusive Bose OpenAudio™ technology, with active noise cancellation and built-in speakers behind wearers’ ears that produce vibrant and robust sound while not disturbing others close by.
The water-resistant coating provides protection for the frames from moisture damage, and while only offered in a solitary color combo for frames and lenses, the all-black palette makes the three different design shapes look sleek. Not sure which pair would suit you best? Check out the Bose style guide for guidance on the best option for your face shape.
Lucyd Lyte Bluetooth Audio Sunglasses
If you’re looking for top-notch audio with a wide range of style and color options, Lucyd Lyte has you covered. The four built-in speakers are located close to the ears for optimal audio quality and noise-cancellation, with touch control buttons on both arms and enhanced Bluetooth connectivity that offers an impressive 100-foot range.
With more than a dozen frame styles available in various lens color options, you have your pick of everything from classic aviators and wayfarers to trendy retro cat-eye and rounds.
Interested, but looking for more budget-friendly options?
If you’re not ready to drop a few hundred bucks on this trend, TechKen sunglasses price out at just $16 and feature built-in Bluetooth headphones that are connected to the frame’s arms, a built-in microphone, and button controls on the frame to adjust volume, play and pause music, and answer calls.
A little higher up in price point is the Razer Anzu. Pick from two frame design options – round or rectangular – and receive a set of changeable blue light filtering lenses and polarized sunglass lenses. With built-in mic and speakers and a touch-frame interface, you can easily change music tracks, play or pause media, and manage calls.
And for those ready to show off your trendy high-tech specs, join us in celebrating National Sunglass Day on June 27th by sharing a #NationalSunglassesDay selfie!
