Augmented reality glasses: specifications, review and reviews

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

Virtual reality is created by technical means and represents an artificial model of the existing reality in real time. Augmented reality brings artificial elements to the perception of the world, and does not completely replace reality.

What are AR glasses?

The direction of augmented reality is developing more slowly than VR, although according to expert opinion, this area is more promising. VR is a very limited world, currently used mostly for immersive gaming, and demos have little or no variance. Augmented reality in real time reflects the necessary information. The gadget functions as a navigator, internet explorer and organizer at the same time.

In augmented reality glasses, the user is not tied to additional equipment (smartphone, PC or console). The freedom of action is not limited to the developers of the application. The interface is translucent, so at the same timethe user finds himself both in the real world and in augmented reality, full immersion does not occur. But the purchase of additional reality glasses is repelled by too high cost (there are no budget models on the market yet), the imperfection of technology and the unsuitability of the gadget for permanent use.

AR glasses developers

Google engineers were the first to see perspective in augmented reality glasses. The computer giant was one of the first to introduce the Google Glass model, which has impressive technical characteristics. There is the possibility of voice control of the gadget, expanding the set of basic functions (for an additional cost). The glasses are made of very high quality materials and look like regular aviators.

Google's main competitor is the Meta AR glasses that connect to a pocket computer. A feature of the gadget is tracking user gestures and surfaces that fall into view. Recognition - with almost zero delay. Atheer One glasses from Ather Labs also recognize movements, connect to a smartphone or computer. The resulting image can be compared to a 26-inch screen placed 50 cm away from the user.

Development in the field of augmented reality is ongoing, new items are announced from time to time, and manufacturers present new, mostly experimental models at presentations. But buying a gadget is not so easy, unlike VR glasses, at least some choice of which (or the ability to make a preliminaryorder) is available in many computer stores. For this reason, ranking augmented reality glasses today is quite simple:

1. Qualcomm Vuforia.
2. Microsoft Windows HoloLens.
3. Augmented Reality Googles.
4. Space Glasses Meta.01.
5. Google Glass.
6. Epson Moverio BT-20.
7. castAR.
8. Hardchat 2.0.
9. Magic Leap.
10. BMW gadget.

Microsoft Augmented Reality Glasses

Microsoft glasses prototype was introduced in January 2015, but development has been delayed. The project is still not massive. Microsoft uses the concept of holograms. You can control augmented reality and created virtual objects using gestures. The device is standalone, that is, it does not require connection to a smartphone, game console or computer.

HoloLens are powered by a 64-bit 1.04GHz quad-core Intel processor. The main chip is complemented by a holographic processor designed specifically for this model of augmented reality glasses. Built-in storage has a capacity of 64 GB, 10 GB of which is employed by the operating system based on Windows 10. RAM - 2 GB.

Optics is very complicated, because it is necessary to ensure normal interaction with the surrounding reality. According to subjective assessments, the capabilities of Microsoft augmented reality glasses are comparable to VR helmets, which is often identified as their main drawback. The field of view is very limited, but this characteristicunlikely to change by the end user version.

Google Glass Virtual Reality Glasses

In 2015, the development of Google Glass was suspended in its current state, while the product completed the experimental stage in the Google Labs. The headset became available to users in May 2014 at a cost of $1,500 (100.8 thousand rubles). At this stage, Glass is neither glasses nor a smartphone.

Interaction is through voice commands, gestures, recognized by the touchpad, which is located on the headband, and a system of sound transmission using bone conduction. In the final version, the concept should implement simultaneously mobile communications, a video diary, augmented reality and the Internet. Reviews of Google Glass augmented reality goggles provide a full list of features:

• photography (5 MP) and video shooting in 1365p resolution;
• launching standard Google programs and options designed specifically for Google Glass;
• 12 GB internal memory;
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS navigation;
• battery, the power of which is enough for twelve hours of active surfing;
• display notes, calendar, weather forecast, notifications of missed calls and messages;
• interaction with a mono earpiece.

Augmented Reality Epson Moverio BT-200

Epson augmented reality glasses (pictured below) have two displays built into them, which are transmitted to the userinformation. Due to this, the effect of presence is achieved. The glasses are synchronized with a smartphone, connected to a computer. The BT-200 is a model for developers and engineers, because the glasses allow you to project three-dimensional models and schemes onto the surface, which can greatly facilitate the work of specialists. Only for games and entertainment, judging by the reviews, Epson is hardly suitable.

Specifications:

• Wi-Fi, GPS and Bluetooth wireless technologies;
• 8 GB internal memory;
• 7-hour active battery;
• 0.3 MP camera;
• built-in gyroscope and compass.

Qualcomm Vuforia AR Glasses

Qualcomm is the developer of 3G WCDMA and CDMA wireless standards. With the advent of VR devices, Qualcomm introduced a set of tools for creating augmented reality on tablets and smartphones running iOS and Android using a special Vuforia platform. The point is that you can superimpose an augmented reality image on the image received from the camera and operate with it in every possible way.

Augmented Reality Goggles by Ride On

Augmented Reality Goggles is a multifunctional device created by Ride On specifically for active winter sports enthusiasts. The device stands out for its carefully crafted design. In augmented reality glasses, the user looks really very stylish. Technical filling: "Android" 4.2.2, processor for two cores,220 mAh battery, camcorder, 1 GB built-in memory.

Magic Leap Virtual Glasses

With investment and technical support from Google, the company has created a "cinematic reality" device. The glasses recognize the surrounding objects and superimpose moving volumetric and virtual static objects on them, which the user sees as holograms. Judging by the feedback from those present at the presentation, augmented reality is supposed to be used in the development of interior design projects, medical interventions, and sports. It will be possible to walk freely around the city in augmented reality glasses, because the image does not interfere with the view and normal movement.

Early prototype castAR Technical Illusions

Jeri Ellsforth, a self-taught chip designer and one of the first employees of the Valve laboratory, worked on the new development. Randomly, the engineer was able to discover that most of the problems associated with augmented and virtual reality are solved by projecting the image outside, and not in front of the eyes. This discovery itself can be called completely accidental, but only a person with a prepared mind could continue to think through the concept and appreciate its full potential.

castAR glasses were introduced by Jerry Ellsforth and Rick Johnson (one of the developers of SteamOS, also a former employee of Valve Corporation), who created their own company. Funding for the project was raised through Kikstarter. Managedcollect twice as much as originally planned. The founders of the company not only actively attracted investors, but also took into account their wishes. Some of the proposals were subsequently embodied in the concept of castAR.

Augmented reality glasses use high-resolution micro-projectors that project an image onto the retina. This allows you to less strain your eyes when working with the gadget for a long time. The initial version was too bulky, but it is expected that the final model will weigh less than 100g and will be suitable for permanent wear.

To interact with the content, it is supposed to use a game controller, gestures or a special 3D input device with a tracking system. Development is still ongoing. But, judging by the feedback from those present at the presentation, if all the ideas of the creators can be translated into reality, then a truly unique device will appear on the market.