Themed ‘Hey Future!’, EssilorLuxottica’s 28th Transitions Academy was successful in bringing together over 1,200 industry professionals from 56 countries to explore the pivotal role of Transitions in shaping the future of vision.
This two-day event hosted in Orlando, Florida (USA), at the start of February welcomed top leaders from EssilorLuxottica, visionary innovators and prominent professors from eyecare and healthcare, who collectively discussed how emerging technologies are transforming the future of the optical industry.
This year, the Group elevated the experience, empowering eyecare professionals to not just witness the transformation of the Optical Industry, but to actively shape it with Transitions GEN S; groundbreaking wearable innovations like the new Ray-Ban Meta collection and Nuance Audio, both powered by dynamic Transitions lenses; and cutting-edge advancements in eye exams, fueled by medical technology and AI — Transitions Academy 2025 was the perfect starting point, a symbol of the power of collaboration.
TRANSITIONS ACADEMY 2025 HIGHLIGHTS
The Game-Changer: Celebrating Transitions GEN S
A key highlight was the celebration of Transitions GEN S, which marked its first anniversary at the Academy, with patients and eyecare professionals testifying to its transformative impact on the daily lives of patients as well as its contribution to the growth of eyecare practices. New clinical trial results further demonstrated that Transitions GEN S offers better vision quality, faster than clear lenses in varying light conditions1, while eyecare professionals had the opportunity to test the advantages of the lenses through a 360° sensory journey.
The Future is Now: Eyewear Meets Wearables
The future of eyewear and wearables was a focal point, with discussions on how smart glasses could become so versatile they may replace traditional connected devices. Rocco Basilico, EssilorLuxottica Chief Wearables Officer and Oliver Peoples President, showcased the Group’s Ray-Ban partnership with Meta, illustrating how Transitions lenses are a game-changer that enhance smart eyewear capabilities.
Hearing Meets Vision: Launch of Nuance Audio
EssilorLuxottica leaders revealed Nuance Audio has secured FDA approval and EU certifications, and how, when paired with Transitions lenses, Nuance sets a new standard for smart medical eyewear by seamlessly integrating vision and hearing.
The ‘New Age Eyecare’ Revolution
The Academy also explored how emerging technologies are reshaping optometry by increasing scope with AI, diagnostics and advanced imaging; increasing prevention with predictive analytics and early detection tools; and increasing access with digital health solutions, tele-optometry and remote care.
Revolutionizing the Future of Retail with Customer Experiences
Focusing on the future of retail, new technologies, such as AI-powered frame advisors and augmented reality mirrors, are expected to revolutionize the consumer experience. The Transitions Color Match cutting-edge demonstration tool was introduced, which allows consumers to virtually ‘try on’ all Transitions lens colors by scanning a QR code with their smartphone.
Introducing Transitions Color Touch
Transitions Color Touch, EssilorLuxottica’s first color-infused ultra-dynamic lens that adapts to all light conditions, was unveiled during the event and is available in five colors inspired by the original GEN S palette in gradient or washed effect.
Transitions Innovation Awards
The event closed with the highly anticipated Transitions Innovation Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements in the optical industry to honor those who make significant strides in innovation and excellence.
