A guide to augmented reality glasses that are redefining the future
The Microsoft HoloLens 2 has an extensive field view that allows the user to interact with their environment. (Used with permission from Microsoft.) Photo courtesy of Microsoft
We’ve all heard about virtual reality, but what exactly is augmented reality? Augmented reality, or AR, is when technology is used to add a digital component to your physical surroundings in real time through a digital device. Whether through a mobile phone or a pair of glasses, augmented reality allows someone to both see their actual environment overlaid with a digital one. Many people began using AR without realizing it when they started changing their appearance with filters on Instagram or ran around town trying to “catch them all” with the Pokémon GO mobile application game.
Now, AR headsets are becoming popular. The headsets are wearable technology that enable the user to both see their surroundings clearly and view superimposed digital components. AR headsets, or smart glasses, combine high-level capabilities that allow the user to collaborate with others remotely and work hands-free. Generally speaking, smart glasses use front-facing cameras to capture the physical world, and the integrated software can identify the context of the real world based on specific markers in view. Many industries already use AR headsets, including logistics, health care, manufacturing, interior design and more.
When selecting which AR headset is right for you, it’s important to consider price, purpose and functionality.
Designed for businesses and enterprises, the technology on Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 can be removed and attached to safety glasses. Photo courtesy of Google Glass
Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2
The first edition of Google Glass was released in 2013. Almost 10 years later, this newest version of Google’s smart glasses is a lightweight powerhouse. With an 8 megapixel camera, Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 enables you to clearly stream high-definition video over Wi-Fi, so it is an excellent choice for collaborating with remote workers. It’s enhanced, with a faster processor that has up to 32 gigabytes of memory. Designed for businesses and enterprises, the technology on these glasses can be removed and attached to safety glasses. These smart glasses also can respond to voice commands. Companies, like GE, DHL and Sutter Health, have invested in this technology.
The Microsoft HoloLens 2 has an extensive field view that allows the user to interact with their environment. (Used with permission from Microsoft.) Photo courtesy of Microsoft
Microsoft HoloLens 2
If you’re looking for hand and eye movement recognition, the Microsoft HoloLens 2 has an extensive field view that allows the user to interact with their environment. These smart glasses are capable of superimposing 3D color images over the physical surroundings so the user can interact with the holographic digital components in a simulated setting. At a $3,500 price point, however, these glasses are best for users that necessitate a fully-immersive, 3D experience where the collaborators can naturally move the holographic images.
Lenovo’s ThinkSmart Reality Smart Glasses are lightweight, have a high-quality camera, can be worn with regular glasses and won’t break the bank. Photo courtesy of Lenovo
Lenovo ThinkReality Smart Glasses
These smart glasses are lightweight, have a high-quality camera, can be worn with regular glasses and won’t break the bank. However, the Lenovo ThinkReality Smart Glasses are wired and must be plugged into a computer or mobile device, so while the pair may be too clunky to use in the field, it is an excellent choice for remote-work collaboration and screen-sharing.
Vuzix Blade Smart Glasses have an 8 megapixel autofocus camera, noise-cancelling microphone and stereo speakers, and display objects in full color. Photo courtesy of Vuzix
Vuzix Blade Upgraded Smart Glasses
The Vuzix Blade Smart Glasses are another great lightweight, comfortable pair. These glasses have an 8 megapixel autofocus camera, noise-cancelling microphone and stereo speakers, and display objects in full color. These wireless smart glasses were designed with the remote worker in mind and intended to make distance collaboration easier. They also can project full-color schematics and instructional content, so they are excellent for workers in the field, on the factory floor and out doing service calls.
Katrina Rossos is a writer and editor with a passion for the environment, ecology and wildlife conservation. Her freelance work has been published in Backpacker Magazine and Backpacker.com, U.S. News & World Report, Nature World News and The Dodo, among others.
This article originally appeared in the Winter 2022 issue of Jersey’s Best. Subscribe here for in-depth access to everything that makes the Garden State great.
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