Countless big tech companies are making an effort to create their own smart glasses to put on the market. Their end goal? To be as functional and desirable as your iPhone. Companies currently looking to make their mark in the smart glasses realm: Amazon, Google, Snap, Facebook, Apple, Magic Leap and Microsoft.
Smart glasses development is still early, and companies are vying to make that pair for which the everyday consumer will vie. A functional and stylish enough pair that’s also an impressive addition to their collection of tech devices. Sadly, there’s still got a long way to go until the product is right for consumers. Most smart glasses resemble clunky headgear and are pricey for those on a limited budget.
In the meantime, here are some smart glasses models gaining attention:
Amazon: Echo Frames
As a continuation of its Echo series, Amazon is launching Echo Frames. The smart glasses come fully equipped with voice assistant Alexa, allowing users to take her on-the-go. Use is limited due to short battery life. Simple actions like Alexa commands are highlighted, as features like music streaming cause faster battery drain. Echo Frames aren’t compatible with iOS smartphones at the moment, reducing the number of potential consumers.
During the invitation-only buying period, they are $179.99. Their future projected price is $249.99.
Microsoft: HoloLens 2
Microsoft’s model of smart glasses mimics the more bulky, traditional view of a VR headset than a pair of glasses. Who’s already making use of HoloLens 2 headsets – soldiers playing out battle simulations in the field.
For the typical consumer, the HoLolens 2 acts as a screen-less computer, giving users the ability to view computer programs without having to sit at a computer. HoloLens 2 purchases are daunting for got-to-have-them consumers with a price tag of $3,500. Look for this to be fine-tuned in the future.
Snap Inc: Spectacles 3
Snap Inc., the company behind social media app Snapchat, recently launched the third version of their Spectacles sunglasses: Spectacles 3. With them, users can take high-definition photos that sync to their iPhone via Snapchat.
The sleek design is available for $380.
Google: Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2
The Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 is another pair of smart glasses aimed for businesses rather than traditional consumers. They support mobile device management, which syncs a device’s apps and services and lets employees control them.
The new frames have a longer battery life and a sleeker frame compared to its past models. They’re available for $999.