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EICMA 2026: IRID Technology showcases instant photochromic visors for motorcycle helmets
Innovation focused on rider safety and comfort also had a place at EICMA 2026. IRID Technology presented its liquid-crystal photochromic visor technology, which can change tint in less than one second to adapt to changing light conditions.
Italian company IRID, based in Brescia, presented a helmet visor technology at EICMA designed to improve both rider comfort and safety. Laura Righi explained to ABC Mundial that the system uses liquid-crystal technology to adapt the visor’s tint to changing light conditions in less than a second, without requiring batteries. The technology aims to overcome some of the limitations of traditional photochromic solutions by responding almost instantly to changes in brightness.
During the demonstration, Righi showed how the visor darkens when exposed to strong light and becomes clear again as brightness decreases, with gradual transitions between the two states. This feature can be particularly useful when riding through tunnels, wooded areas or places where lighting conditions change frequently. The goal is to provide riders with suitable visibility without requiring them to manually adjust the visor.
The solution addresses a practical need for riders: a visor that can provide greater comfort as light conditions change, without having to replace the visor or stop to adjust its configuration.
One of the technology’s key features is that it does not require a conventional battery, using integrated solar power instead. The company also highlights uniform tinting and a design intended to avoid flickering or halo effects, while providing water resistance.
IRID works with helmet manufacturers including SHARK, LS2 and Nolan, with its technology available on selected models. Its development demonstrates how electronics and advanced materials can provide practical solutions for everyday riding.