New frames for Google Glass

Google on Monday announced a strategic partnership with Italian-based Luxottica Group to design and manufacture frames for Google Glass.

At first name Luxottica might not ring a bell, but it represents such brands as Armani, Prada, Versace, Miu Miu and of course Ray Ban and Oakley, which were selected as two first brands to open the partnership.

Signing the deal Google will definitely benefit from the extensive distribution network of the world's largest eyewear company as currently Luxottica controls over 80% of world's major brands and has more than 12% of the global market share. However, and what is more important on my opinion, Google will finally be able to start promoting the Glass to consumers (or rather users) as a fashion must-have accessory and not just a device for techno geeks.  

Luxottica is very thrilled about the deal: “We believe that a strategic partnership with a leading player like Google is the ideal platform for developing a new way forward in our industry and answering the evolving needs of consumers on a global scale”. Said Andrea Guerra, Chief Executive Officer of Luxottica Group. I cannot help sharing the excitement, as I believe Glass technology has a great future and Luxottica made a smart move.

The price of the new product has not been announced yet as well as a price of the deal. Currently Glass without frame costs $1,500 + tax and average price of Ray Ban frame is $250.