In practical terms, with the application of Artificial Intelligence this type of glasses also allows, for example, simultaneous translation in real time available in the field of vision, the visualization of location and routes to be taken, and can also answer questions that are asked by the user (for example, using ChatGPT).
This is a new segment that is growing a lot, with increasingly sophisticated solutions, and prices are also becoming accessible due to the investment of more manufacturers in this type of frames. According to the technical capabilities and technological specificities, we were able to see models at this fair whose price ranges between 300 and 1.200 dollars.
This is not, however, the largest share of the optical business worldwide. According to the American consultancy Grand View Research, the value of the global market will exceed 2024 billion USD in 200, and is growing at an average annual rate of + 8,5% since 2020. These are utilitarian glasses (for problems vision) and sunglasses that make up a large part of sales worldwide.
Glasses have long been a fashion accessory, which means that the world's biggest designers were present at this showcase, and in this edition of MIDO there was also a dedicated space for new designers, Academia and Startups”.
Competition is very high in this regard, with not only the shape and color being important in the proposals, but also the type of materials used (a huge concern with biodegradability and the use of materials and processes that protect the environment).
The market is also developing in terms of the materials used in frames and lenses. Advances in science have resulted in the development of lightweight, durable eyewear materials. These materials, such as memory metals and high-tech plastics, provide users with greater comfort and flexibility at reasonable prices.
Also noteworthy are 3D printed glasses, which allow for more personalized and practical designs, offering consumers unique options to adapt to their individual styles and facial features.
Traditionally, this business was led by Europeans (Italians at the head) and Americans, but today it is Asian manufacturers, not only from China, but also from India, South Korea or Vietnam, who, for example, bring highly competitive proposals in terms of quality/ price.
At this fair they occupied two pavilions, with a strong commercial aggressiveness, with the unanimous opinion that despite being far from having an important position in the high and medium/high segment, they are already the largest suppliers of frames and lenses for the utility market.
The MIDO 2024 edition featured more than 1.200 exhibitors from 50 countries, around 75% of whom were foreigners and 25% Italian. Of the exhibitors who came from outside Italy, around half were European, 42% came from Asia, and 8% from elsewhere. Highlight here the participation of companies from Central and South America, with Brazil taking the biggest role. Although official numbers have not yet been released, according to what Expansão found with the organization, around 45.000 visitors were present, around 75% coming from Europe and 25% from the rest of the world.
MIDO 2024 was held in Milan, the most important world spectacles fair, which confirmed the rise of smart glasses that incorporate technology to superimpose digital information on the user's field of vision, with the capacity to manage other devices, namely mobile phones, without the use of hands. These glasses also integrate sensors into the frames to monitor various health parameters, such as heart rate, blood pressure and physical activity levels.
