US vision care company, VSP Global has launched new frames, with activity-tracking technology embedded inside the temples that’s designed to get you fit and provide a bit of charity at the same time.
VSP’s Level smart glasses’ technology tracks activity via an accompanying smartphone app. As users reach daily step goals they earn points redeemable for a donation of vision care services to individuals in need.
Currently only available in select US markets, the new Level smart glasses concept was originally thought up in 2015 in VSP’s innovation lab, The Shop, a partnership with the University of Southern California’s Center for Body Computing (CBC).
"Our work with CBC allowed us to apply a unique degree of academic rigor to the Level project," said Jay Sales, The Shop co-director. "We knew we wanted to create something of value, not just another wearable novelty."
The Level technology, located inside the left temple of the frame, tracks steps, calories burned, distance and total activity time. Users can also connect with friends and even locate a misplaced frame through the app's "Find My Glasses" feature. Level's charitable giving component syncs with VSP’s Eyes of Hope initiative. Once 50 points are achieved, a comprehensive eye exam and eyewear are gifted to an individual in need from one of four user-selected groups: veterans, children, the elderly or individuals affected by homelessness.
