An eye on the future: How intelligent glasses are evolving – from simple visual aid gadgets to AR/MR smart glasses – Image: Xpert.Digital
Limits and opportunities: Intelligent glasses on the way to AR/MR - More than just a gadget
Intelligent glasses – More than just a visual aid
Smart glasses have become one of the most exciting trends in wearable technology in recent years. They go far beyond mere visual aids or sun protection and offer a new level of comfort and possibilities through networked functions, sensors and intuitive controls. Their use is no longer limited to technology enthusiasts or professionals in industry - in everyday life, smart glasses can also ensure that we access information more quickly and discreetly, have our hands free for important activities and at the same time organize ourselves better.
But despite all the enthusiasm, we should not forget that smart glasses require a complex interaction of different technologies: from powerful processors to high-resolution displays to robust data protection mechanisms. They are often associated with augmented reality (AR) or mixed reality (MR) systems, but their functionality is often simpler. However, the question arises as to how long it will stay that way: with each new generation of devices, the boundaries between “just smart” and “immersively enhanced” become blurred.
In addition, aspects such as battery life, wearing comfort and social acceptance should not be underestimated. After all, what use are glasses with great features if you don't like wearing them in everyday life or if those around you are bothered by the constant camera surveillance? In this introduction we want to provide an initial overview of the potential and challenges of intelligent glasses. The following text delves deeper into the technical basics, possible applications and the development towards more immersive technologies such as AR and MR.
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Intelligent glasses are already useful companions in many areas. As technology advances, its possibilities grow to include AR or even MR functions. What remains crucial is how well manufacturers master the balancing act between functionality, design, data protection and suitability for everyday use. In the coming years, the development of smart glasses will continue to be exciting - and will fundamentally change our understanding of what glasses can do.
What are smart glasses?
Smart glasses are glasses that go beyond their classic function as vision correction or sunglasses. They have integrated technical components such as processors, sensors and radio modules to display notifications, data or other digital information directly into the user's field of vision. This allows wearers to access information without having to pick up a smartphone or other device.
What core properties make glasses “intelligent”?
- Connectivity: Wireless connection (Bluetooth or WiFi) to smartphones or other devices.
- Discreet information display: A small display that projects information into the field of vision or is attached to a lens.
- Hands-free system: Integrated microphones and speakers enable you to make phone calls or listen to music without having to use your smartphone.
- Sensors: Motion sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) and often also cameras or ambient light sensors.
- Basic computing power: A dedicated processor and memory to process notifications and sensor data.
- Voice control: For intuitive operation and interaction, often in conjunction with voice assistants.
What role does connectivity play?
Connectivity is at the heart of smart glasses. You can connect to external devices via Bluetooth or WiFi and receive messages, calls or notifications. This makes it possible to see information directly in the field of vision or to answer phone calls without having to pick up the smartphone.
How is information displayed in smart glasses?
Most models have a small display that either projects the information into the field of vision or is embedded as an additional element in the lens. These displays are often minimalistic in order to keep energy consumption low and not distract the wearer. Typical information can be time, notifications, navigation instructions or weather data.
Why is a hands-free system in smart glasses so practical?
Integrated microphones and speakers allow you to make phone calls, listen to voice messages or listen to music without having to take out your smartphone. This is particularly useful in situations where you want or need to have your hands free, for example when cycling, working or cooking.
Which sensors are used in smart glasses?
- Motion sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer to detect the position and movements of the glasses.
- Ambient light sensors: Regulate the brightness or contrast of the display depending on the light.
- Cameras: Allow you to take photos and videos from a first-person perspective or are used for object recognition.
- Other sensors: Depending on the model, heart rate sensors or other biometric sensors may be integrated.
What computing power is in intelligent glasses?
Most smart glasses have their own energy-efficient processor and small memory to handle basic tasks. They process incoming notifications, run simple apps and evaluate sensor data. For more complex tasks (e.g. data analysis), the connected smartphone or the cloud is usually used to extend the battery life of the glasses.
Why is voice control important?
Voice control enables hands-free and intuitive operation. Users can make calls or start certain functions without having to rely on buttons or touchpads. If speech recognition is successful, it increases comfort and improves suitability for everyday use.
What differentiates smart glasses from augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) glasses?
- Intelligent glasses: Display information in the field of vision without significantly changing the real environment. For example, they display text messages, navigation instructions or weather data.
- AR glasses: Augment reality by contextually projecting digital content into the real environment. The virtual content is firmly anchored in the field of vision and adapts to the user’s perspective.
- MR glasses: Offer additional interactive elements so that you can interact with virtual objects in the real world. These objects appear tangible and respond to movements or gestures.
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Why are AR and MR glasses particularly resource-intensive?
AR and MR glasses must capture the environment in real time and place digital objects precisely in the real world. This requires high computing power, advanced sensor technology (e.g. depth sensors) and complex algorithms. This also uses more energy, which requires special hardware and more powerful batteries.
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To what extent are smart glasses the “forerunners” of AR glasses?
Today's smart glasses are often less powerful than AR glasses and are usually limited to simple display or hands-free functions. However, as technology advances (more powerful processors, improved sensors, more efficient displays), smart glasses are increasingly approaching the capabilities of AR systems by integrating expanded information into the field of vision or enabling object recognition.
What are the most important areas of application for intelligent glasses?
- Everyday life: Quick access to notifications, appointments or messages.
- Navigation: Display of directions directly in the field of vision, helpful for pedestrians, cyclists or on public transport.
- Communication: Hands-free calling, video conferencing, taking and sharing photos/videos.
- Health and Fitness: Track steps, heart rate or assist with visual impairments.
- Industry and trade: Display of instructions, checklists or drawings for more efficient work.
- Education and training: Interactive learning content or simulations.
- Entertainment and Gaming: Basic gaming and video functions (extended for AR/MR glasses).
What are the challenges and concerns with smart glasses?
- Data protection and privacy: Cameras and sensors could collect data or take recordings unnoticed.
- Social acceptance: Not everyone finds it pleasant when the other person wears a camera on their head or is constantly online.
- Battery life: The glasses must have enough energy to last in everyday life.
- Usability and user-friendliness: The controls must be intuitive and not distracting.
- Cost: High-quality hardware is usually expensive, which can hinder its spread.
What does the future of smart glasses look like?
Development is still in its infancy, but the potential is enormous. Future models are expected to be lighter, more powerful and less noticeable. Better display and sensor technologies allow more AR functions to be integrated, creating new possible uses - from everyday navigation aids to immersive AR experiences. It is important to offer real added value without losing sight of data protection, privacy and social norms.
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