Dusk - Electrochromic Tint-Changing Sunglasses With Open Ear Audio

The transitional or photochromic lenses are so cool. They can instantly transform from a dark shade to clear glass, as per the light falling on them. These are really useful for people with prescription glasses who don’t want to carry separate sunglasses with them. But have you ever wished to have more control over the tint of glasses?

If so, you’re in luck! Ampere has just announced its new pair of smart sunglasses with electrochromic lenses. Dubbed Dusk, the electrochromic smart sunglasses can be controlled via the accompanying smartphone app. It means that using the app enables users to control the tint of their glasses.

Form Factor & Features

The advanced and innovative dusk smart sunglasses measure 141 x 166mm and weigh 26g. Boasting the classic Wayfarer-style design, this pair of sunglasses comes in a matte-black finish and ergonomic contours. Plus, these are intended to deliver the utmost comfort to the wearer.

These sunglasses are also IP65 water- and dust-proof rated. So, you can easily take them around the pool or beach without letting environmental factors ruin your shades. As per Ampere, it takes just 0.1 seconds for making the changes. It is very quick compared to the traditional lenses that usually take longer to transition from dark to light.

Since the sunglasses come with a smartphone app, the users can easily save their desired settings. So, it’s easier for them to switch between various shades.

How Is Dusk different from other photochromic sunglasses?

Unlike traditional transitional lenses (aka photochromic lenses) that react to light, Dusk’s lenses are electrochromic, giving you the ability to instantly select the exact tint level you want. Simply tap the side of the frame to adjust between three preset tint levels or use the Ampere app to select a specific tint level. This is the same electrochromic technology that is used in the windows of the newest luxury cars.

Smart Sunglasses with Open Ear Audio

Besides the app-controlled tint, these smart sunglasses even come integrated with built-in speakers. The speakers are available in the form of an open-ear audio system. So, you can listen to audio without requiring headphones. Meanwhile, you also stay aware of the surroundings.

There is also a built-in button and a microphone to launch Google Assistant or Siri. Using the hidden speaker drivers on either side of the TR-90 frame, you can answer calls hands-free, as well as activate your phone’s voice assistant.

The company has even designed the Dusk to pair with Apple’s new AirTag. There will be extra space in the charging case to place the tracker.

In addition, the sunglasses come integrated with a built-in rechargeable battery that provides 7 days of battery life for app-tint control. Plus, it offers 4 hours of active listening experience between charges. The custom charging case of the sunglasses can further extend the battery life by multiple charging.

Battery life

Despite their lightweight design, Dusk features a 110 mAh battery capacity that allows for up to 4 hours of listening time and over 7 days of app-enabled tint adjustment time. And if the battery gets low, simply place them in the charging case or connect them to the cable provided and they will charge from 0-80% in just 15 minutes.

Availability

The makers are running a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo for funding Dusk. You can pledge around $249 or more to preorder the electrochromic smart sunglasses. For the lite version, you need to spend $179. But the lite version comes without built-in audio and microphone. Both the models will be shipped in August 2021.

FAQs On Dusk Sunglasses

Does Dusk have polarized lenses?

Yes! Every pair of Dusk smart sunglasses comes equipped with polarized lenses. Polarized lenses protect your eyes and block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. On top of that, they also make everything seem a little more clear and crisp, and cut down on glare (which makes them perfect for fishing).

I’ve used Bose’s smart glasses and they were pretty bulky, are Dusk the same?

When planning out Dusk, we sought to implement a sleek and lightweight design weighing only 26 grams that allows you to enjoy a "smart glasses" experience while not sacrificing on style. Your friends won’t even notice that your fancy new shades are packing some state-of-the-art tech!

Are Dusk waterproof and durable?

Dusk offers a durable design and we’re designing them to be IP65 water resistant and dustproof, providing protection against the elements. So whatever activity you engage in, you’ll have a sleek pair of smart glasses that won’t let you down.

Is Dusk recommended for people who wear prescription glasses? For people that use prescription glasses, any option for them?

Upon launch, we only offer a non-prescription version of Dusk. A prescription version is under development but there are some challenges involved with incorporating our electrochromic technology into prescription lenses. Please keep checking in (and help us reach our stretch goal). We’ll have more information coming within 1-2 weeks! If this is something you are interested in, please let us know.

Do I need to use the Ampere app to adjust the tint?

For a more precise adjustment of tint you will need the app, but there is also a button on Dusk that enables preset tint levels. This will allow you to adjust the tint on-the-go without having to pull out your phone.

How does Apple AirTag support work?

Currently Dusk supports insertion of one Apple AirTag via the wireless charging case. Tracking of the sunglasses themselves is not available at this time.