AR Glasses for Work
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes computer-generated information on a live view of the real world. It is often used for training and entertainment.
Currently, AR is available on mobile phones, tablets and headsets. But a new generation of AR devices look more like everyday glasses.
The future of AR is exciting, and it’s almost here. But are they ready for mass adoption?
Enhanced Vision
AR glasses have the potential to be life-changing for people with impaired vision. They can allow blind and low vision users to see a layer of digital information over the world around them, including messages, navigation, heart rate, and other custom data fields that they can manually manipulate. This technology could make it easier for them to walk down the street or navigate a restaurant. It would also help them keep up with the pace of other pedestrians and cyclists while giving them directional guidance.
However, the sheer number of components needed to make these devices work will be challenging to squeeze into a design that people ar glasses wouldn’t mind wearing all day. That includes cameras to pinpoint physical location, displays large enough to overlay a wide field of view, powerful processors, computer vision AI that can identify objects, and comfort design for extended use.
Currently, most AR glasses are bulky and limited in functionality. For example, Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 is a great pair of AR glasses for work that offers a high-performance display with head-tracking capabilities, but it comes at a hefty price and requires a tethered laptop to function properly. On the other hand, Lenovo’s ThinkReality A3 offers a lighter option that is surprisingly functional. This AR device combines revolutionary display capability with personal equipment technologies, such as touchpad and noise-canceling sensors and an 8MP HD camera.
Reduced Digital Eye Strain
Many digital device users experience eye strain. This is largely due to prolonged exposure to blue light, which can lead to sleep disorders and irritated eyes. While adjusting screen brightness and taking regular breaks can help, it’s best to wear glasses with blue-light filtering lenses. This way, you can work in front of your laptop or phone with comfort.
AR is transforming the user experience in a variety of ways. For example, generative AI will allow AR to transpose users’ imaginations into the physical world. With this technology, you could say “I imagine there is a dolphin swimming in my room” and the image would appear on your AR computer display. This is perfect for creating an immersive experience and fostering collaborative work.
Another AR innovation is facial recognition. This feature allows you to see a person’s background and other information instantly – even when they are not facing you. The technology is already being used in the airline industry to confirm passengers’ identities and speed up boarding.
A company that develops AR has recently released a pair of smart glasses with this capability. The Xiaomi Mi augmented reality (AR) computer headset features two micro-OLED displays – one for each eye – and an onboard processor that runs on Android. It is designed to be a hands-free display with a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery and offers 2GB of storage.
Increased Confidence
AR smart glasses will only reach their true potential when they’re paired with software that optimizes them as per your specific requirements. This software will ensure that they can meet the needs of your business. For example, they can be used to provide a quick and easy way to reference documents and other materials while on the go. They can also help your team streamline workflows, improve productivity, and boost customer satisfaction.
Whether your employees need to reference a document in the field or they need to make an important call, smart glasses can be extremely useful tools. The right pair will allow them to access the information they need without having to fumble around their bag or pocket for their mobile phone. The ability to sync calendars and meetings with the smart glasses can also come in handy. Other features include the ability to answer text and email messages with voice dictation and the option of video calls. Message alerts can also be displayed discreetly so that they don’t interrupt conversations. Integrated GPS technology will also allow virtual arrows to float up into view to help users navigate a new location.
Having a good-looking pair of frames can be incredibly confidence boosting for anyone who wears ar glasses them. Choosing a frame that suits your face shape and skin tone can help you look your best. Investing in high-quality frames that are designed to last will give you a polished and professional appearance.
Increased Productivity
Using AR smart glasses for work allows frontline workers to operate hands-free without having to stop their workflow and take their eyes off the task at hand. This improves productivity in a number of ways. It reduces the risk of accidents from having to stop to look at a monitor or text message, and it eliminates the time lost in searching for information.
The software in AR smart glasses allows employees to get instructions, SOPs, guides and other documentation with just a click of a button. It also helps them connect to experts in a quick and easy way. This helps in boosting productivity as employees don’t have to waste time waiting for their boss or coworkers to give them directions or answer questions.
This technology could also be beneficial for non-sighted people who need to navigate the world around them. The mapping software and camera assist features in AR smart glasses would allow them to get turn by turn directions as they walk down the street, all while monitoring road conditions and weather.
For athletes, AR smart glasses can make a significant impact on the performance of runners and other high-performance individuals. They can be used to track heart rate and other vital statistics in real-time, allowing them to compare their results with other competitors. The Lenovo ThinkReality A3 is one such pair of AR smart glasses that are able to do just that. It’s a bit different from other AR devices in that it tethers to a smartphone for processing power instead of housing it within the device. It can project stereoscopic 1080p displays and has head motion tracking.