Amazon is getting into the smart glasses race. VP Dave Limp gave an early look at Echo Frames. The glasses resemble traditional prescription lenses, but allow wearers to take Amazon’s Alexa smart assistant with them anywhere and everywhere. Echo Frames are part of a program that Amazon calls “Day One editions,” which are devices, aimed at enthusiasts, that aren’t quite ready for mass, widespread release. They’ll be available on an invite-only basis for $179.99.
The Echo Frames will be available with or without a prescription, and weigh only 31 grams (1.1 ounces), Limp said during the event.
Limp didn’t mention any augmented-reality capabilities, but that simplicity might make them a more practical everyday product than, say, Google Glass more of a way to use Alexa on the go and keep your hands free than a revolutionary way of experiencing the world around you.
Smart specs! ? Echo Frames let you use @alexa99 on the go and keep your hands, ears, and eyes free. https://t.co/ugT22XhFIn pic.twitter.com/aku0fCuwbV
— Amazon News (@amazonnews) September 25, 2019
The company didn’t disclose a release date for the Echo Frames, nor was there any mention of battery life beyond them being “all-day” glasses. Amazon didn’t get into any augmented reality capabilities or other futuristic features. Instead, the Echo Frames seem squarely focused on serving as another Alexa wearable.
