If you've been on the fence about signing up to be a Google glass explorer, this news might convince you to finally take the plunge. Google announced Monday that it is teaming up with the largest eyeglass manufacturer in the world, Milan-based Luxottica Group. What does this mean for you? It means that you'll be able to wear your Google Glass(es) in Ray-Ban, Persol and Oakley form soon.
This partnership is yet another effort on Google's part to bring Glass into the mainstream. In January, they teamed up with VSP to offer customers subsidized frames and prescription lenses. And although the resulting glasses were much more flattering than the original high-tech specs, they weren't exactly Wayfarers.
In a statement, Google had this to say about the new collaboration: "Luxottica understands how to build, distribute and sell great products that their clients and consumers love — something we care deeply about at Glass, too."
You can expect Google to develop Ray-Ban and Oakley frames for Glass in the near future and then work with Luxottica to design its own frames, the New York Times reported. Unfortunately, these fashionable frames will cost you extra. Glass costs $1,500, not including designer frames or prescription lenses. However, Google told the Times that it will lower the price once the consumer version becomes available later this year. Consider it added to our holiday wish lists.
Image: RayBan.com
