Are smart glasses and AR glasses the same? We will clear all your doubts in this piece of post.
In the world of wearable technology, smart glasses, and AR (Augmented Reality) glasses are two terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between the two that make them distinct from each other. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between smart glasses and AR glasses.
What are Smartglasses used for?
Smartglasses are wearable devices that display information in a heads-up display (HUD) format. They are designed to provide users with quick access to information without having to take out their smartphones or tablets. Smartglasses can be used for a variety of purposes, such as navigation, fitness tracking, and communication. Examples of smart glasses include Google Glass and Vuzix Blade.
What is an AR glass?
AR glasses, on the other hand, are specifically designed for augmented reality experiences. They are equipped with sensors and cameras that allow them to superimpose digital information into the real world. AR glasses provide users with an immersive experience by overlaying digital content onto their physical surroundings. Examples of AR glasses include Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap.
One of the main differences between smart glasses and AR glasses is their intended use. Smart glasses are designed to provide users with quick access to information, while AR glasses are designed to create immersive experiences. Smartglasses are ideal for use in situations where users need to access information quickly and efficiently, such as in the workplace or during physical activities. AR glasses, on the other hand, are ideal for use in gaming, entertainment, and education.
Another difference between the two is the type of information they display. Smartglasses display information in a heads-up display format, while AR glasses superimpose digital content onto the real world. Smartglasses are limited to displaying information in a relatively small space, while AR glasses can display information in a much larger space.
In terms of technology, smartglasses and AR glasses use different types of sensors and cameras. Smart glasses typically use sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect movement and orientation, while AR glasses use sensors such as depth sensors and RGB cameras to detect the real world and overlay digital content onto it.
What companies are in the Smartglasses and AR Glasses sector?
There are several companies that are currently operating in the smartglasses and AR glasses sector. Some of the most prominent ones include:
- Google: The search engine giant was one of the earliest companies to launch a smartglasses product, Google Glass, in 2013. While the product failed to take off initially, the company has continued to invest in AR technology and has recently launched the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, which is targeted at businesses.
- Vuzix: This New York-based company specializes in AR and smartglasses and has a range of products targeted at various industries such as healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. Its products include the Vuzix Blade, M400, and M4000.
- Microsoft: The tech giant’s AR glasses product, the HoloLens, is widely considered to be one of the most advanced products in the market. It is primarily targeted at enterprise customers and has applications in industries such as architecture, engineering, and healthcare.
- Magic Leap: This Florida-based company has developed a mixed-reality headset, the Magic Leap One, which allows users to interact with digital content in the real world. The company has raised over $2.3 billion in funding and is backed by investors such as Google, Alibaba, and AT&T.
- Apple: While the company has not yet launched a smartglasses or AR glasses product, it is widely rumored to be working on one. The company has made several acquisitions in the AR space and has filed several patents related to AR technology.
- Epson: The Japanese electronics company has a range of smartglasses products targeted at enterprise customers. Its products include the Moverio BT-350, BT-300, and BT-2000.
- RealWear: This California-based company specializes in ruggedized smartglasses for industrial use. Its products, such as the HMT-1 and HMT-1Z1, are targeted at industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and utilities.
- Nreal: This Chinese company has developed a lightweight and affordable AR glasses product, the Nreal Light, which is targeted at consumers. The product was launched in 2020 and has received positive reviews for its design and usability.
- Samsung is another major player in the smartglasses and AR glasses sector. The company has been investing in AR technology for several years and has launched several products in this space. One of Samsung’s key products in the AR glasses sector is the Samsung Smart Glasses, which were first introduced in 2013. These glasses are designed to be lightweight and comfortable to wear, and they feature a transparent OLED display that can overlay digital information in the real world. Samsung has also invested in AR software development, launching an AR platform called ARCore, which allows developers to create AR experiences for Android devices. The company has also partnered with other AR software developers to integrate their technology into Samsung products.
Summary
Smart glasses and AR glasses are both wearable devices that provide users with access to digital information. However, they have different intended uses and display information in different ways. Smartglasses are designed to provide quick access to information in a heads-up display format, while AR glasses are designed to create immersive experiences by overlaying digital content in the real world. Understanding these differences can help users choose the right device for their needs.