Customers select glasses at the newly opened Henggang AI+ Eyewear Center in Henggang, Longgang District, on Wednesday. Li Zhong
Shopping for glasses in Shenzhen just got a high-tech upgrade.
The Henggang AI+ Eyewear Center, China's first commercial complex dedicated to AI-powered smart eyewear, officially opened Wednesday in Henggang Subdistrict, Longgang District.
The six-story complex blends industrial research and development with experiential retail and cultural tourism, aiming to redefine how consumers see—and interact with—the world. While the first two floors are now open to the public, the remaining levels will roll out in phases.
A centerpiece of the launch is the Vision Hub, a global AI and augmented reality (AR) experience center established in partnership with the Shenzhen AR Industry Association. The hub serves as a testing ground for cutting-edge smart glasses, bridging the gap between traditional optics and wearable tech. More than 40 brands and supply-chain companies have already moved in, ranging from original design workshops to retailers showcasing the latest AI-integrated frames.
To woo visitors, the center has launched a free shuttle bus service connecting the Liantang Checkpoint in Luohu District directly to the complex. The 30-minute shuttle will run on weekends and public holidays through Dec. 31. The route is designed to turn a shopping trip into a "one-stop" experience, linking major eyewear malls with local jewelry markets and dining hotspots in the subdistrict.
The opening marks a new chapter for Henggang, one of China's eight major eyewear production bases.
The area's optical roots date back to 1983, when a Hong Kong businessman opened the first glass factory in the 168 Industrial Zone, sparking a manufacturing boom. At its peak between 2005 and 2010, Henggang produced 125 million pairs of glasses annually—more than 50% of the global mid-to-high-end market.
Today, Longgang District stands as a manufacturing powerhouse, housing 1,500 eyewear firms – 70% based in Henggang and Yuanshan subdistricts. With the nation's most complete supply chain, it can turn a raw mold into a finished pair of glasses within just five kilometers. Longgang is also the home to 90% of China's top eyewear designers and produces for iconic global brands including LV, Gucci, Chanel, Armani, and Ray‑Ban.
