Samsung is preparing to unveil a new XR device, but it’s not the head-mounted display many expected. Instead, the upcoming device will likely be a pair of smart glasses. This marks a shift in the mixed reality market, as Samsung aims to compete with Meta’s offerings.
Smart Glasses, Not a Headset
Earlier this year, Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google announced their collaboration to create an XR device, leading to speculations about a high-end XR headset. However, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon revealed in a recent CNBC interview that the collaboration would result in mixed reality smart glasses instead. These smart glasses will connect to a smartphone and offer augmented reality features.
How Smart Glasses Work
The smart glasses will likely overlay useful information in the real world. For instance, Google Maps could display turn-by-turn directions directly in the glasses’ field of view, enhancing navigation. This feature could improve daily convenience, especially for tasks like travel. However, it remains unclear if Samsung will focus solely on smart glasses or also develop a head-mounted display like Apple’s Vision Pro.
Snapdragon Chips in Samsung’s Smart Glasses
Samsung’s smart glasses are expected to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips, which will run a version of Android designed for AR/VR/XR devices. Qualcomm’s latest chip for AR glasses, the Snapdragon AR2 Gen 1, was released in 2022. However, it’s uncertain whether Samsung will use this chip, as it’s already two years old. There’s also the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip, designed for headsets, which adds to the confusion surrounding Samsung’s upcoming device.
The Future of Smart Glasses and XR Technology
Cristiano Amon sees smart glasses evolving into devices no different from regular glasses or sunglasses. He believes that, in the future, anyone with a smartphone will be able to own a pair of XR smart glasses. Additionally, Amon believes that generative AI will be the key to unlocking the full potential of the mixed reality market. He pointed to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip, as a successful example of current technology.
Focus Keyphrase: XR smart glasses
Samsung’s new XR device, likely to feature XR smart glasses, aims to reshape the mixed reality landscape. Powered by Qualcomm’s advanced chips, these smart glasses will compete with Meta’s offerings and enhance daily life with augmented reality. For more information on the latest tech and deals, visit Tiny Deals.
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