Smart Glasses: The Future is Here

The 2014 Google Glass flop initially soured the public on smart glasses, but these devices might soon make a fashionable return, thanks to advancements in technology and AI.

Gene Munster, from Deepwater Asset Management, suggests that both Meta and Google are heavily investing in a new wave of smart glasses. These will blend style with utility, incorporating generative AI to create a more appealing product. Munster wrote on his firm's site, "The enthusiasm stems from understanding that consumers prefer user-friendly tech, combined with the potential of generative AI to enhance functionality."

He envisions these glasses as everyday wearables that also function as sophisticated computing devices. "The aim is to craft glasses that not only look normal but can interact with the world around you through AI, answering queries like plant identification or locating misplaced items," Munster explained.

"Within ten years, sales could reach hundreds of millions, even pushing Apple to explore similar wearable tech," Munster forecasts.

Timothy Bates from the University of Michigan-Flint highlights AI's role in transforming smart glasses from niche gadgets to indispensable tools. "AI personalizes and improves how users interact with these devices, making them more appealing for everyday use," he noted.

"AI integration into smart glasses means they can now offer real-time language translations, alert users proactively, and suggest content tailored to their tastes," Vena explained to TechNewsWorld.

"Thanks to AI, these glasses can recognize voice commands and gestures more naturally, allowing for seamless, hands-free operation. This makes interacting with the technology feel more intuitive," Vena elaborated.

"Imagine seeing directions or information about items around you directly in your line of sight, all thanks to AI-enhanced AR. This not only simplifies daily activities but also enriches how we engage with our surroundings," Vena concluded.

Tim Bajarin from Creative Strategies in San Jose, Calif., shared his experience with the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarers, saying, "I can snap photos with the 12-megapixel camera just by hitting a button on the side of the glasses."

"There's a new feature where I can live-share my view with friends, which means I don't need to pull out my phone for every photo," he added. "The sound quality of these glasses is top-notch. I often use them to listen to podcasts or music on the go, bypassing the need for my AirPods."

"For directions or quick info, I simply ask, 'Hey Meta, find me the nearest breakfast spot,' and it promptly tells me where to go, complete with directions," he remarked, illustrating the convenience of voice-activated assistance.

The Role of Style and Appearance

Ross Rubin from Reticle Research in New York City emphasized the importance of design in smart glasses, particularly highlighting Meta's partnership with Ray-Ban. "This collaboration underscores how crucial fashion and aesthetics are when designing something people might wear all day," he explained to TechNewsWorld.

He pointed out a key lesson from Google Glass's reception: "It was too noticeable, almost like a sci-fi gadget. People don't typically sport something that looks like a piece from the Borg, but Ray-Ban glasses? That's different. They might be slightly bulkier, but they're blending in more, making it increasingly difficult to tell them apart from regular eyewear."

Stylish Smart Glasses are more appealing to users.

Jitesh Ubrani from IDC in Framingham, Mass., highlighted that advancements in both technology and design have significantly enhanced the appeal of smart glasses since the days of Google Glass.

"AI integration has vastly improved how practical and useful smart glasses are, moving beyond their initial role as mere audio replacements," he explained to TechNewsWorld.

"Despite these advancements, smart glasses haven't yet reached the market's expectations. The demand is for devices with robust augmented reality features but without sacrificing current benefits like lightweight design and long battery life," said Rob Enderle from the Enderle Group in Bend, Ore.

Apple's Potential Shift Towards Smart Glasses?

Despite Apple's focus on the Vision Pro as the pinnacle of its spatial computing endeavors, Gene Munster believes the company will eventually pivot towards smart glasses.

"While Vision Pro could indeed become a significant market, I foresee Apple's future spatial computing devices aligning more with the smart glasses from Google and Meta," he wrote.

"Within the next five years, Apple will likely unveil its own line of these advanced wearables. My conviction stems from the practical advantages of smart glasses over mixed reality headsets, and Apple can't afford to overlook this market," Munster predicted.

Anshel Sag from Moor Insights & Strategy in Austin, Texas, concurs, suggesting that smart glasses could serve as an entry point for users into the realm of spatial computing. "They act as an introduction," he told TechNewsWorld, "showing users the potential enhancements when real-world views are augmented with digital displays and 3D graphics."