
CES 2026 officially kicks off on Tuesday, but Mashable is already on the scene in Las Vegas, where the initial celebrations have begun at CES Unveiled. This preview event showcases a selection of exhibitors at the annual consumer technology exhibition, and amid the robots, intelligent cameras, and AI gadgets, a distinctive pair of sunglasses grabbed attention.
I had the chance to test the Povec C1 sunglasses, which the cofounder of the company, Alexis Marc Pons, asserts are the first electrochromic sunglasses in the world. These sports shades can change from tinted to clear with a simple swipe of a finger. By moving your finger across a panel on the frame, the tint adjusts instantly. Typically, one would need a new pair of sunglasses or a lens attachment to achieve this effect. Additionally, the glasses feature a fashionable sports frame available in multiple colors.
While the ability to control the tint may not be as revolutionary as some cutting-edge robotics showcased at CES Unveiled, it’s a product that nearly anyone can appreciate. I anticipate these glasses becoming quite popular. A representative from Povec Optics noted that the electrochromic technology was originally designed for automotive applications in the Audi E5 Sportback, but it is also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts like cyclists, skiers, runners, and boaters. The sunglasses need to be charged using USB-C, with a charge lasting approximately 28 days.
Povec Optics is not the pioneer in the realm of user-controlled tinted sunglasses. Last year at CES, Mashable reviewed similar sunglasses from Chamelo Eyewear, which could adjust both tint and color. Chamelo’s glasses are already on the market, but Povec is set to present an intriguing challenge upon its debut.
The startup is aiming for a launch in May 2026, with a price tag ranging from $250 to $350, comparable to designer eyewear. For updates, check out Povec Optics on Instagram.
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