Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has taken a major step forward in its wearable technology plans by buying a nearly 3% stake in EssilorLuxottica, the world-renowned eyewear company that owns Ray-Ban and Oakley.
A source close to the situation shared that Meta invested about €3 billion (around $3.5 billion) in the deal. $3.52 billion) for this investment and is exploring the possibility of increasing its stake to 5% in the future. While Meta hasn’t released an official statement and EssilorLuxottica has declined to comment, the news was first reported by Bloomberg and later confirmed by Reuters.
Why This Investment Matters
Meta’s investment comes at a time when interest in AI-powered wearable devices is rapidly growing. The company has already seen major success with the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, launched in 2023, which reportedly sold millions of units worldwide.
With this new deal, Meta aims to expand its presence in the wearable tech market, using artificial intelligence to offer hands-free smart experiences through everyday eyewear.
Launch of Oakley Meta HSTN Smart Glasses
Just last month, Meta teamed up with Oakley to launch a new version of smart glasses named Oakley Meta HSTN. These new glasses come with advanced features such as
• A high-resolution camera for hands-free photos and videos
• Open-ear speakers for audio playback without blocking outside noise
• Water resistance for everyday use
• Comes with Meta AI support, allowing voice control and instant help.
This product marks the next phase of Meta’s smart glasses journey, following the popularity of its Ray-Ban collaboration.
EssilorLuxottica’s Role and Future Plans
EssilorLuxottica, a top eyewear company, is also putting efforts into developing smart wearable technology for the future. According to CEO Francesco Milleri, the company plans to:
• Increase production of smart glasses
• Work more closely with Meta on smart glasses for other well-known eyewear brands.
• Integrate more tech-driven features without compromising on design and comfort
These plans were first hinted at earlier this year and now seem to be aligning with Meta’s expanding vision in the wearable tech space.
What This Means for the Future
This partnership could set the stage for next-gen smart eyewear that combines fashion, functionality, and artificial intelligence. Meta’s push into wearables reflects a shift in the tech industry—where AI-powered gadgets are moving from smartphones into more everyday accessories.
Meta’s investment in EssilorLuxottica gives it better access to:
• Eyewear design innovation
• Large-scale production facilities
• Global distribution networks
• A loyal customer base already familiar with brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley
This move also supports Meta’s ongoing investment in AI infrastructure, signaling a future where smart glasses become a mainstream consumer product—not just a niche tech gadget.
Final Thoughts
Meta’s €3 billion stake in EssilorLuxottica is more than just a financial move—it’s a long-term strategy to lead the smart wearable market. As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, smart glasses could soon become as common as smartphones.
With products like Oakley Meta HSTN and future collaborations in the pipeline, users can expect more powerful, stylish, and intelligent eyewear solutions in the coming years.
