Down to Business English Reimagining Wearables
Jul 24, 2025
Smart glasses are back in the spotlight, driven by advancements in AI and tech company innovations. Discussion revolves around past failures, particularly Google's initial attempt, and why current models might succeed. Major players like Meta and Amazon are vying for market dominance, showcasing new features designed to cater to user needs. Privacy concerns and transformative effects on workplace technology are also highlighted. Could these AI-powered wearables finally revolutionize daily life?
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Why Google Glass Failed
- Google Glass failed largely due to price, tiny screen, and privacy fears which made people uneasy.
- Skip suggests the product may have been simply ahead of its time rather than a total loss.
Slow Upgrade Cycle Limits Innovation
- Consumers now upgrade devices less frequently, reducing incentives for marginal hardware improvements.
- Skip argues that AI alone needs a new hardware format to unlock fresh user value beyond phones.
Meta’s Ray-Ban Partnership Story
- Meta partnered with Ray-Ban in 2019 and released Ray-Ban Stories in 2021, then a 2023 upgrade with Meta AI and WhatsApp integration.
- Skip notes Meta has sold over two million pairs and later partnered with Oakley for new smart glasses.