Megane Top partners with Cellid to develop AR glasses

Megane Top, the operator of the Megane Ichiba eyewear chain, has announced a business partnership with Cellid to develop and market augmented reality (AR) glasses. The collaboration combines Cellid’s expertise in optical wave-guide displays and spatial recognition software with Megane Top’s experience in eyewear design, manufacturing, and retail distribution.

As part of this initiative, Megane Top unveiled the ‘Linse Display,’ a smart glass featuring integrated display functions. The device is designed to support real-time translation, transcription, teleprompter capabilities, and map navigation for walking and cycling. The glasses include a 12-megapixel camera located in the bridge, speakers in the temples, and a touch panel for control. To address privacy concerns, the camera is equipped with an LED indicator that flashes during recording.

The Linse Display is priced at 108,182 yen (excluding tax), with pre-orders scheduled to begin via crowdfunding on October 23. Following the initial launch, the products are expected to be sold through Megane Top’s retail network. The company also noted plans to expand its domestic manufacturing capabilities by constructing a large-scale new factory in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, which is slated to begin operations in July 2027.