Vuzix MicroLED Smart Glasses Launching This Summer

Even within the first day of CES 2021, it’s becoming apparent that smart glasses are a significant emerging trend. Yesterday, I covered Lenovo’s augmented reality glasses designed for professional use, and since then, several other companies have presented their own versions, each with varying degrees of advanced features.

While Vuzix’s newest designs are still some months from release, they appear to be among the most noteworthy showcased at the event so far. The company has primarily built its reputation on solutions geared towards businesses – a sector where the majority of revenue currently lies – unless a truly innovative product captures the consumer market.

These models may not represent that breakthrough (though I anticipate more significant developments from larger consumer electronics manufacturers), they do represent progress toward integrating augmented reality into a more appealing design. The key appears to be creating AR glasses that resemble conventional eyeglasses. These next-generation glasses demonstrate a noticeable improvement in aesthetics, appearing much more like standard eyewear compared to previous iterations.

This advancement is largely attributable to a collaboration with Jade Bird Display, which will facilitate the commercialization of the Chinese company’s microLED technology. Jade Bird explains the technology as follows:

According to Vuzix, the module, which generates a monochrome, three-dimensional image, is approximately the size of a pencil eraser. The company states that the glasses will be offered in various models, including Wi-Fi enabled versions and options with LTE connectivity. All versions will include stereo speakers and microphones with noise cancellation.

Pricing information has not yet been announced, but Vuzix expects to launch the glasses this summer.