The Ally Solos are fitted with a camera and rely on Envision’s new “Ally” AI assistant, which blends the capabilities of multiple models, including Meta’s Llama, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Perplexity AI. Together, these systems enable the glasses to read and translate text, describe environments, identify people and objects, recognize signs, and even perform web searches. Information is relayed discreetly through open-ear speakers built into the frame, ensuring that users can receive assistance while staying aware of ambient sounds.
The glasses build on Solos’ AirGo Vision platform, which debuted in late 2024. Unlike the original model that relied on OpenAI’s GPT-4o, the Ally version is powered by Envision’s tailored assistant and integrates directly with the Ally mobile app on both iOS and Android via Bluetooth.
From a design perspective, the glasses are built with durability in mind. They come with an IP67 dust and water resistance rating and feature USB-C rechargeable ear stems. Battery life is rated for up to 16 hours of active use, with a full charge taking around 90 minutes. A quick 15-minute charge provides approximately three hours of usage, ensuring flexibility for users on the go.
The Ally Solos are available in two frame sizes (regular and large) and three colors: black, gray, and brown. They are currently open for pre-orders at a special launch price of $399, discounted from the standard retail price of $699. Shipping is expected to begin in October 2025.
Envision is not new to the accessibility space. The company previously developed smart glasses based on Google Glass, while competitors like Ray-Ban Meta have also gained traction among visually impaired users for their AI-assisted vision tools. However, the Ally Solos occupy a more premium tier, priced significantly higher than the $299 AirGo Vision and Ray-Ban Meta models.
Whether the enhanced AI-driven features and expanded assistive functions justify that premium remains to be seen, but for many in the blind and low-vision community, the promise of smarter, more capable eyewear could be transformative.
