Shanghai Optical Fair: AI Glasses Account for Only 1%, Reflecting on the AI

Introduction

The AI hardware industry is thriving, with one AI hardware solution provider shipping 600,000 units in just three months. However, the AI glasses segment at the Shanghai Optical Fair tells a different story.

AI Glasses at the Shanghai Optical Fair

The Shanghai Optical Fair, held from February 20 to 22, is a significant event in the optical industry. This year, the fair saw a considerable turnout, with a strong focus on traditional optical products. AI glasses made a minor showing, accounting for approximately 1% of the exhibits.

• Low Presence of AI Glasses: Notable brands such as Boshi Glasses, Yashi, and Mingyue Lens were present, with Boshi being the most active in embracing AI glasses. The fair primarily focused on traditional optical products like frames, lenses, and sunglasses.

• Challenges in AI Glasses Adoption: Many traditional optical companies showed little enthusiasm for AI glasses. Some companies acknowledged the potential of AI glasses but expressed concerns about the complexity of AI components and the substantial investment required for production line upgrades.

AI Integration in Traditional Optical Industry

While AI glasses were not a dominant feature, other AI applications in the optical field were showcased:

• AI-Powered Vision Care Devices: Devices like AI-powered vision care equipment demonstrated the integration of AI with traditional optical products.

• AR/AI Glasses for Specific Use Cases: AI glasses designed for specific applications, such as assistive technology for the visually impaired, were also present.

Considerations Behind the AI-ization of Traditional Glasses

Traditional optical companies face several challenges when considering AI integration:

• High R&D Costs: Developing AI glasses requires significant investment in research and development.

• Complex Supply Chain: AI glasses involve complex components, requiring coordination across various suppliers.

• Market Acceptance: There are concerns about consumer acceptance and whether the added AI features justify the higher costs.

Outlook

The integration of AI into traditional optical products is still in its infancy. While AI glasses offer exciting possibilities, the traditional optical industry must navigate technical challenges, cost considerations, and market demand to achieve successful integration.

In conclusion, the AI glasses segment at the Shanghai Optical Fair reflects the early stages of AI integration in the traditional optical industry. As technology advances and market demand evolves, AI glasses have the potential to become more mainstream, offering enhanced functionality and user experiences.