Published on: December 30, 2024 / Update from: December 30, 2024 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
Intelligent glasses are not always automatically augmented or mixed reality. What are the core features of smart glasses? – Image: Xpert.Digital
Smart glasses: More than just a gadget – a comprehensive look
The world of wearable technology is evolving rapidly, and smart glasses are a fascinating example of this evolution. They are often mentioned in the same breath as augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR) glasses, but it is important to understand that “smart” does not automatically mean “augmented” or “mixed”. In order to truly grasp the core functions and potential of intelligent glasses, a differentiated view is necessary.
What makes glasses “smart”? The core properties
Smart glasses are best defined by their ability to go beyond the traditional function of optical correction or sun protection. They integrate computer-aided functionalities that support the user in his everyday life and open up new possibilities. The core features can be summarized as follows:
Connectivity as a basis
A key feature of smart glasses is their ability to communicate wirelessly. This is usually done via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which allows them to connect to smartphones, tablets or other devices. This connectivity makes it possible to receive notifications, make calls or stream music without having to directly pick up the connected device.
Unobtrusive information display
Many smart glasses have a way to display information to the user. This can be done via small displays that either project directly into the field of vision or are attached to one of the lenses. The trick is to present the information in such a way that it is useful, but does not distract from the actual field of vision or be disruptive. Monochrome or colored displays with limited resolution are often used here to keep energy consumption low. The information displayed can range from simple notifications about the time to navigation instructions.
Hands-free device for communication
The ability to receive and make calls without having to take your smartphone out of your pocket is a big advantage of smart glasses. Integrated microphones and speakers (or the use of headphones) enable discreet communication, which is particularly useful in situations where you need to be hands free. The quality of the microphones plays a crucial role in ensuring clear voice transmission even in noisy environments.
Sensors for environmental and user data
Smart glasses are often equipped with a variety of sensors that collect information about the environment or the user themselves. These include accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers that can detect movement and orientation. Some models also have ambient light sensors that automatically adjust the brightness of the display, or even cameras that can take photos and videos. This sensor data can be used for various purposes, from gesture control of glasses to collecting fitness data.
Basic computing power
Although smart glasses typically have limited processing power, they have their own processor and memory to perform basic functions. This allows them, for example, to process notifications, run simple apps or analyze the data from the integrated sensors. The efficiency of the processor is crucial for the battery life of the glasses.
Voice control as intuitive interaction
Many smart glasses rely on voice control as a primary or additional method of interaction. Using voice commands, users can make calls, get information or control functions of the glasses without having to press buttons or navigate a small touchpad. The quality of speech recognition and integration with voice assistants are important factors here.
The subtle difference: Intelligent glasses vs. Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR)
The key difference between smart glasses and AR/MR glasses lies in the way digital information is integrated into the user's real world.
Smart glasses
Information on the edge of reality: Intelligent glasses usually provide information that is perceived more peripherally. They display notifications, enable phone calls or play music without fundamentally changing the user's real view. The information displayed is usually two-dimensional and does not interact directly with the real environment. You can think of this as a small screen floating in front of the eye or projected into the field of vision.
Augmented Reality (AR)
The overlay of reality: AR glasses go one step further. They expand the user's real world by displaying digital information directly in their field of vision and overlaying it with the real environment. Imagine looking at a building and the AR glasses show you information about the history of the building or reviews of restaurants on the ground floor. The digital elements are “attached” to the real world and change with the user’s perspective. AR glasses require more complex sensors and computing power to recognize the environment and position the digital content accordingly.
Mixed Reality (MR)
The fusion of reality and digital: MR glasses go one step further than AR. They allow the user not only to see digital information, but also to interact with it in the real world. Digital objects can be represented as if they were physically present and the user can interact with them, for example throwing a virtual ball or editing a 3D model in their living room. MR requires very precise sensing of the environment and advanced technology to make the interaction between real and digital elements seamless.
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The development of intelligent glasses: The path to AR and MR
It is important to emphasize that the boundaries between categories can be fluid and technology is constantly evolving. Many of today's smart glasses could be considered precursors to AR glasses. With increasing computing power, improved sensors and more sophisticated display technologies, smart glasses will be able to integrate more and more AR functionalities in the future.
An example of this is the development of glasses that are able to display simple directions directly into the user's field of vision, instead of just indicating changes in direction acoustically or via a small display. The integration of object recognition, for example to display information about objects in the environment, is also a step towards AR.
The diverse areas of application of intelligent glasses
Regardless of whether it is purely information display or advanced AR functions, smart glasses offer a wide range of possible applications:
- Information and organization in everyday life: Quick access to notifications, calendar entries, weather information or news without having to take out your smartphone. This can be particularly useful in situations where you are busy or need to have your hands free.
- Navigation and Orientation: Smart glasses can help navigate unfamiliar environments by displaying directions directly in your field of vision. This is particularly beneficial for pedestrians, cyclists or public transport users.
- Communication and social interaction: Hands-free for phone calls, video conferences or exchanging messages. Some glasses also allow you to take and share first-person photos and videos.
- Health and fitness: Record fitness data such as number of steps, distance traveled or heart rate. Some models can also provide support for visual impairments, for example by reading text aloud or increasing contrast.
- Industry and trade: Access to technical drawings, instructions or checklists directly in the field of vision, which enables more efficient work and reduces errors. Remote-controlled support from experts via the glasses is also conceivable.
- Education and training: Interactive learning content, virtual exercises or simulations displayed via the glasses. This can make learning more clear and practical.
- Entertainment and gaming: Although the focus here is more on AR and MR glasses, smart glasses can also provide basic entertainment functions, such as watching videos or playing simple games.
Challenges and concerns
Despite the great potential, there are also challenges and concerns related to smart glasses:
- Data protection and privacy: The collection of user data and the ability to take photos and videos raise important questions about data protection. How is this data stored and used? How do you prevent the glasses from taking pictures unnoticed?
- Social Acceptance: Wearing technology directly on your face may be perceived by some as disruptive or rude. The public's acceptance of smart glasses depends heavily on their design and inconspicuousness.
- Battery Life: Limited battery life is a common problem with portable devices. Smart glasses must last long enough to be useful in everyday life.
- Usability and user-friendliness: Controlling the glasses should be intuitive and simple, without unnecessarily distracting the user. Interaction via voice, gestures or touchpads must work reliably.
- Costs: The development and production of intelligent glasses is complex, which can be reflected in a higher price. In order to achieve widespread acceptance, costs must remain within reasonable limits.
The future of smart glasses
The development of smart glasses is still in its early stages, but the potential is enormous. As technology advances, glasses will become more powerful, smaller and less noticeable. The integration of AR functionalities will increase and open up new application possibilities. It is likely that smart glasses will play an increasingly important role in our everyday lives in the future, providing us with information in a discreet and intuitive way and supporting us in our daily tasks. The challenge will be to design the technology to provide real added value without violating privacy or flouting social norms.
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