Investing.com -- Warby Parker Inc (NYSE: WRBY ) shares surged 17.8% following the announcement of a strategic partnership with tech giant Google (NASDAQ: GOOGL ) to develop AI-powered eyewear. The collaboration signifies a bold move into the next generation of computing, integrating Warby Parker’s eyewear design with Google’s advanced technology ecosystem.

The New York-based lifestyle brand, known for its direct-to-consumer approach, will work closely with Google to create smart glasses that offer all-day wearability. Warby Parker’s co-founders expressed enthusiasm for the venture, emphasizing the potential of multimodal AI to revolutionize the wearer’s interaction with their environment.

Google’s commitment to the partnership includes up to $75 million designated for product development and commercialization, along with a potential equity investment of a similar amount, contingent on achieving certain milestones. This financial backing reflects a long-term investment in Warby Parker’s vision and marks the first eyewear collaboration for Android XR.

The companies anticipate launching their initial line of intelligent eyewear after 2025, which will feature both prescription and non-prescription lenses equipped with AI capabilities. This initiative aligns with Warby Parker’s history of leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences and Google’s expertise in creating innovative products.

The announcement has evidently resonated with investors, as Warby Parker’s stock has experienced a significant uptick. The market’s reaction underscores the strategic importance of the partnership, which could redefine the intersection of technology and personal accessories.

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