The 23rd China (Shanghai) International Optics Fair took place from Feb 20 to 22 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre — located in Shanghai's Pudong New Area — marking one of the city's major trade events to kick off this year.

The event occupied an expansive 115,000 square meters, reflecting a 59.8 percent increase in size compared with last year.

Over 900 companies participated, with 213 being first-time exhibitors. The international section has grown by 62 percent and the latest event featured 165 exhibitors and 340 brands from 23 countries and regions.

A major highlight at this year's fair was artificial intelligence-powered eyewear, which drew significant attention for its innovation and market potential. Leading tech companies such as Huawei, DreamSmart, Superhexa and RayNeo showcased their latest smart glasses.

Superhexa, for one example, unveiled its AI audio glasses for the first time. Founder and CEO Xia Yongfeng emphasized the advantages of these audio glasses — noting that their lightweight, comfortable design made them comparable to traditional eyewear.

Xia added that research showed that users wear these audio glasses for over 10 hours a day, with an average of 7 hours spent on reading, watching videos or listening to music — surpassing the usage of other wearable devices.

He also pointed out that while AI glasses merge consumer electronics with internet technology, they must still meet the core needs of the eyewear industry — such as offering customization options and comprehensive after-sales services.

Superhexa's AI audio glasses already support features like AI notifications, real-time translations and voice interactions, making them practical tools for daily use.

In addition, Superhexa has partnered with leading eyewear brands — including Baodao Optical and Doctor Glasses — to push smart glasses into the mainstream, utilizing a "try before you buy" approach to boost consumer confidence and drive sales.

At the fair, DreamSmart and RayNeo also unveiled their own AI smart glasses. DreamSmart introduced two models — the StarV View, designed for the domestic market and the StarV Air2, aimed at international audiences.

Both were said to offer a stunning 188-inch display experience and featured adjustable prescriptions, AI assistants, voice recordings, navigation and translation functions. The glasses even include a teleprompter function, which is gaining in popularity.

Source: Shanghai Observer