Industry News
Ampere Introduces Electrochromic Smart Sunglasses at SILMO
At last week’s SILMO, Ampere debuted Dusk — a breakthrough pair of smart sunglasses with app-enabled electrochromic lenses, an open-ear audio system, and accessories designed to be integrated with Apple AirTags.
Unlike traditional photochromic lenses (aka transitional lenses) that react to the light, Dusk’s lenses are electrochromic allowing you to electrically adjust the tint level in just 0.1 seconds to your desired tint. It’s the same powerful technology used in luxury cars but in your sunglasses. With the Ampere App, you’ll be able to pair your frames and set the exact tint level of the lenses, and even save your preferred settings. When away from your smartphone, you can simply adjust between three tint levels via touch controls on the left-hand side of the frame or set them to adjust automatically.
Dusk also comes equipped with an open-ear audio system and allows for a great listening experience while on the go. The speakers in each arm’s interior discreetly provide crystal clear audio while allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings—making them perfect for driving, biking, or walking on busy streets. For touch and voice control, an integrated microphone and button on the right side of the frame will allow you to access Siri and Google Assistant. The button will also allow you to answer calls, pause or skip songs — keeping you fully hands-free.
Unlike other bulky audio sunglasses on the market, Dusk has a classic and timeless style. The arms of the frame are ultra-thin, making the tech almost impossible to detect from a distance. The classic wayfarer frame has a slightly oversized profile and suits nearly all face shapes. With polarized lenses that block 100% of UVA/UVB rays and a modern matte-black finish, Dusk looks and feels premium.
Dusk has also been engineered to be lightweight, waterproof, and durable. The frames weigh just over 26 grams and are comfortable to wear all day long. With a waterproof rating of IPX4, they are perfect for a day on the water or by the pool.
“The smart sunglasses options on the market are either pretty basic and not worth splurging on, or are something out of a sci-fi movie and not suited for everyday use,” says Reid Covington, CEO, Ampere. “When we set to work on designing Dusk, we wanted to not only pack it with everyday functionality that can combine the best features of your other devices into one lightweight, good-looking pair of shades, but also really take your sunglasses to the next level. This is where our patented, app-enabled electrochromic lenses come in. If you’re like me, I’m a bit of a control freak — I like a different tint level for laying by the pool vs reading by the pool, or even eating lunch by the pool. Now you don’t have to compromise — instantly set the exact tint you want. Electrochromic lenses will be a game-changer for a lot of people and we know that they are going to love wearing Dusk sunglasses every day.”
“We love the wearables space and we’re excited to be expanding our wearables line with Dusk,” says Chase Larson, COO, Ampere. “I’ve always been a big fan of sunglasses and I’m always frustrated when I find myself out and about on a sunny day without a pair handy. With the adjustable tint level, I take these with me every day, regardless of the weather. And, with the slot for Apple AirTags in the charging case, I feel confident that they won’t get lost. The right technology can take everyday essential items up a level. Stay tuned as we have some more exciting wearable tech in the pipeline.”
