9 Best Augmented Reality Smart Glasses 2016
A recent post on Appcessories cites a list of the top nine Augmented Reality headsets from 2016 so far. Please note that The AREA is not promoting the following AR devices, however readers may be interested in the list to see some of the major players in this industry, many of whom also sell AR headsets to an enterprise market.
- Microsoft Hololens: these smart glasses use holograms to augment reality by placing a virtual view over your real life surroundings. It is not yet available for consumers, due to currently being a developer edition.
- Magic Leap: this is a startup developing AR glasses, with realistic graphics. It is said to potentially replace screened devices in future.
- Solos AR glasses: these were specially developed for cyclists, as they display real time data such as heart rate, distance, speed, and power zones. The display is only 4mm, allowing the cyclist to maintain a clear view of the road.
- Vuzix M300: these smart glasses run on Android, although they can also connect to iOS phones, and are loaded with features such as Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth.
- CastAR: these smart glasses are made for gaming in particular, and work by projecting virtual images onto the surroundings of the wearer. They work with table top surfaces and also allow multiplayer modes.
- Meta AR: these glasses use holograms that can be manipulated like physical objects, and can also run apps from Windows and Mac. They are designed for architects and engineers to use professionally.
- Laster SeeThru: these smart glasses project real time data onto the display and involve head movement tracking sensors for accurate AR.
- Epson Moverio BT-300: these eyeglasses are more visually appealing and lighter than the previous BT-200 model, and project virtual images in vibrant color. They are generally marketed at professionals, though consumers aren’t excluded from buying them.
- Recon Jet Smart Glasses: these glasses were also designed for cyclists, and include sensors such as a thermometer, accelerometer, altimeter, and GPS.
The article concludes by assessing Augmented Reality glasses, pointing out its great potential, but also that most of the products mentioned contain flaws.