The rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is opening a new market for personal devices that follow smartphones. Following Samsung Electronics' unveiling of its AI smart glasses, 'Intelligent Eyewear,' the three major South Korean telecom companies—SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus—are also entering the AI glasses market by launching sales of Meta's 'Ray-Ban Meta.'
On July 22, Samsung Electronics showcased the key features and design of its AI smart glasses, 'Intelligent Eyewear,' during the Galaxy Unpacked event in London.
Samsung's Intelligent Eyewear is equipped with a camera, sensors, microphone, speaker, and Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen1 chipset. Users can access features such as message notifications, real-time translation, navigation, and information searches through voice and gesture controls. The glasses offer up to nine hours of use on a single charge. The design has been enhanced through collaborations with global eyewear brands like Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.
The three major telecom companies in South Korea have also begun selling AI glasses. SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus announced that they would start selling the AI glasses 'Ray-Ban Meta,' co-developed by Meta and EssilorLuxottica, from this day forward.
Ray-Ban Meta combines voice AI, a camera, and open-ear speakers. Users can activate the device by saying 'Hey Meta,' allowing it to answer questions, search for information, and provide recommendations.
Equipped with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, the glasses can capture 3K ultra HD videos and photos. They feature five microphones and open-ear speakers for music listening, phone calls, and voice AI functions. The glasses can last up to eight hours on a single charge, and with a charging case, they can extend usage to 48 hours, while also being water-resistant.
In response, each company is launching discount programs linked to their plans and setting up experience stores to expand the AI glasses market. SK Telecom has begun sales through its online store, T Direct Shop, and six T World locations, while KT is prioritizing sales through its online store, KT Direct Shop, with plans to expand to general retailers starting August 3.
Various discount offers are available from each company. SK Telecom is providing up to 24,000 won off device installment payments for customers on high-tier plans. KT is offering a 10% discount for its membership customers, with plans starting at around 10,000 won per month when bundled with a dedicated plan, and around 7,000 won per month through the 'Choice Double Device' plan at general retailers. LG Uplus is also offering discounts of up to 80% depending on the plan through its 'Mania Device' program.
According to market research firm IDC, shipments of display-less AI smart glasses are expected to increase from 13.6 million units this year to 27.3 million units by 2030, more than doubling. In the first quarter of this year, shipments rose by 167% compared to the same period last year, with Meta holding a 69.2% share of the global market, ranking first.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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