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The Avegant Glyph is a [[head-mounted display]] advertised as the world’s first personal theater designed to offer high portability and immersive video experience with excellent audio quality. It can be used either as a regular pair of over-the-ear headphones, or it can be flipped over eyes. The Glyph was available for $699. Shipping is estimated to take between 6 and 8 weeks.<ref>https://avegant.com/</ref>
{{Device Infobox
|name = Avegant Glyph
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Personal Theater]], [[Video Headset]]
|Platform = HDMI devices (phones, consoles, PCs, drones)
|Creator = [[Avegant]]
|Developer = [[Avegant Corporation]]
|Manufacturer = [[Avegant]]
|Announcement Date = 2015
|Release Date = 2016
|Price = ~$599
|Website = https://www.avegant.com/ (discontinued)
|Versions = Avegant Glyph, Glyph HD, Glyph Founder's Edition
|Requires = HDMI video source
|Predecessor = None
|Successor = None (company pivoted)
|Operating System = Android 4.0+ / iOS 7.0+ (smartphone compatible)
|Chipset = Embedded processor
|CPU = Embedded
|GPU = Source device dependent
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Retinal Imaging Technology (micromirror array)
|Subpixel Layout = N/A (micromirror)
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 1280 × 720 per eye (2 million micromirrors total)
|Pixel Density = N/A
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Persistence = N/A
|Field of View = 40° diagonal
|Horizontal FoV = ~35°
|Vertical FoV = ~20°
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Peak Pixel Density = N/A
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Retinal Imaging Technology (RIT)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|IPD Range = Adjustable
|Adjustable Diopter = Yes (+1 to -7 diopter)
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 3DoF (9-axis IMU for 360° content)
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = None
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes (360° video only)
|Positional Tracking = No
|Update Rate = 60Hz
|Tracking Volume = N/A
|Play Space = Seated
|Latency = Low latency
|Audio = Integrated premium headphones
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes (audio only input)
|Camera = No
|Connectivity = Micro HDMI, Micro USB (charging)
|Ports = Micro HDMI, Micro USB, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (Micro HDMI)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = Internal Li-ion battery
|Battery Capacity = 2060mAh
|Battery Life = ~4 hours (video)
|Charge Time = Not specified
|Dimensions = Headphone form factor
|Weight = ~440g
|Material = Premium plastic, audio-quality construction
|Headstrap = Headphone-style band (optional additional strap)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black/Silver
|Sensors = 9-axis IMU (head tracking for 360° content)
|Input = Source device controls
|Compliance = FCC
}}


==Design==
The '''Avegant Glyph''' is a unique personal theater and video headset developed by [[Avegant Corporation]], announced in 2015, launched via Kickstarter, and released in 2016 at approximately $599. Unlike traditional VR headsets that use LCD or OLED displays, the Glyph pioneered "Retinal Imaging Technology" (RIT) using an array of two million micromirrors to beam images directly into the user's eyes—a technology that Avegant claimed produced more natural, eye-strain-reducing visuals similar to how humans perceive the real world. The Glyph's innovative form factor resembles a pair of premium over-ear headphones that flip down to become a personal video display, providing a 1280 × 720 (720p) per eye resolution with 40° diagonal field of view—equivalent to viewing a 65-inch screen from 8 feet away. Supporting most video formats including 3D and 360-degree content (with onboard head tracking), the Glyph connects via Micro HDMI to smartphones, tablets, laptops, gaming consoles, cameras, and drones, with built-in diopter adjustment (+1 to -7) eliminating the need for glasses for most users. The device includes high-quality integrated audio with 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and 4 hours of battery life.
The basic shape is elegant and strongly resembles traditional headphones. The familiar form factor makes it easy to carry around during travel, and it doesn’t draw nearly as much attention as other head mounted displays.
All it takes to immerse in a video is to move the lenses horizontally in front of eyes. Users can adjust for varying distances between eyes and use interchangeable nose pads to ensure great fit. The Glyph also accommodates for people with poor eyesight. This feature is necessary because it’s not recommended to keep a pair on while using the Glyph.


==Display==
'''Note: Avegant pivoted away from consumer headsets to focus on light field display technology for AR/automotive applications. The Glyph is no longer in production.'''
Instead of relying on traditional screens, the Glyph recreates natural sight with Avegant’s patented Retinal Imaging Technology, which uses advanced optics and microscopic mirrors to project images directly to the eyes.
Not only is this technology capable of producing high quality picture with vivid colors, but it’s also very safe and doesn’t cause eyestrain. That’s because the light source is a low-powered Light Emitting Diode (LED) that is combined with a micromirror array and optics to create a very comfortable image that feels natural even after longer periods of time.
The experience is like watching an 80-inch screen viewed 8 feet away, with enough space above and below to see waht’s goign on around in the real world.<ref>http://www.theverge.com/2015/12/15/10180320/avegant-glyph-personal-theater-headset-shipping-media-vr</ref>


==Audio==
== History and Development ==
The Glyph is equipped with a pair of 40mm high-performance polymer drivers. The over-the-ear design of the driver housing offers a good amount of passive noise isolation for comfortable listening during travel.
Audio can be played either via the built-in HDMI port or the 3.5mm connector.


==Charging==
=== Avegant Background ===
In video mode, the battery can last up to 4 hours. It takes about 3 hours to charge it to its maximum capacity. During this time, users can use the device in a regular fashion.
Company origins:
* Founded by Michigan University researchers
* Retinal imaging technology focus
* Kickstarter success
* Consumer electronics venture


==Usage and Compatibility==
=== Kickstarter Campaign ===
The Glyph is designed to work with content from multiple different sources, including smartphones, tables, laptops, consoles, media players, drones, and more. Users can download [https://avegant.com/set-up-support#resources a compatibility guide] for a comprehensive list of tested devices.
Crowdfunding success:
Currently, onboard head tracking allows the Glyph to work with the JauntVR player, and compatibility with additional players is expected to be added in a near future.
* 2014 campaign
* Over $1.5 million raised
* Enthusiast community
* Technology validation


==References==
=== 2016 Release ===
Commercial launch:
* ~$599 retail price
* Founder's Edition special
* Consumer availability
* Unique market position
 
=== Company Pivot ===
Technology evolution:
* Moved to light field displays
* AR/automotive focus
* B2B transition
* Consumer exit
 
== Design Philosophy ==
 
=== Retinal Imaging Technology ===
Unique display approach:
* Micromirror projection
* Direct retinal imaging
* Natural eye perception
* Reduced eye strain
 
=== Headphone Form Factor ===
Dual-purpose design:
* Premium headphones (up)
* Video display (down)
* Familiar form
* Social acceptability
 
=== Personal Theater ===
Entertainment focus:
* Private viewing
* Portable cinema
* High-quality audio
* Immersive experience
 
=== Universal Compatibility ===
Wide device support:
* Smartphones
* Gaming consoles
* Laptops/PCs
* Drones/cameras
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Micromirror Array ===
Retinal Imaging Technology:
* '''Technology''': DLP micromirror projection
* '''Micromirrors''': 2 million total
* '''Type''': Direct retinal projection
* Unique in consumer market
 
=== Resolution ===
Visual specifications:
* '''Resolution''': 1280 × 720 per eye
* '''Total''': 720p HD
* '''Aspect''': 16:9
* HD viewing quality
 
=== Field of View ===
Viewing window:
* '''FOV''': 40° diagonal
* '''Equivalent''': 65" screen at 8 feet
* Entertainment-focused
* Comfortable viewing
 
=== Eye Strain Reduction ===
RIT benefits:
* Natural light perception
* Reduced fatigue
* Comfortable extended viewing
* Eye-friendly technology
 
== Optical Adjustment ==
 
=== Diopter Adjustment ===
Vision correction:
* '''Range''': +1 to -7 diopter
* Nearsighted accommodation
* Farsighted accommodation
* No glasses needed (most users)
 
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Eye alignment:
* Adjustable positioning
* User customization
* Comfortable viewing
* Wide compatibility
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Headphone Form Factor ===
Unique approach:
* Over-ear headphone style
* Display flips down
* Familiar wearing
* Portable design
 
=== Flip Mechanism ===
Transformation:
* Headphones position (up)
* Display position (down)
* Quick transition
* Single device
 
=== Weight ===
Specifications:
* '''Weight''': ~440g
* Headphone-equivalent
* Balanced distribution
* Extended wear possible
 
=== Build Quality ===
Premium construction:
* High-quality materials
* Audio-grade components
* Durable build
* Premium feel
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Premium Headphones ===
Integrated audio:
* Over-ear design
* '''Frequency''': 20Hz-20kHz
* '''Dynamic Range''': 95dB
* High fidelity
 
=== Audio Quality ===
Performance:
* Full-range response
* Clear reproduction
* Immersive sound
* Entertainment grade
 
=== Audio Input ===
Connection options:
* 3.5mm audio input
* Audio-only mode
* Music listening
* Standalone headphones
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== Micro HDMI ===
Video input:
* Micro HDMI connection
* Universal compatibility
* Most devices supported
* Standard interface
 
=== Device Compatibility ===
Supported sources:
* iPhone/Android smartphones
* Gaming consoles (Xbox, PlayStation)
* Laptops/MacBooks
* PCs and cameras
* Drones (FPV viewing)
 
=== Charging ===
Power connection:
* Micro USB charging
* Standard cable
* Easy power
* Universal charging
 
== Battery ==
 
=== Li-ion Battery ===
Power specifications:
* '''Capacity''': 2060mAh
* '''Life''': ~4 hours video
* Integrated battery
* Session duration
 
=== Portable Power ===
Mobile use:
* Self-contained
* No external power
* Travel suitable
* Entertainment ready
 
== Content Support ==
 
=== Video Formats ===
Content compatibility:
* Standard video
* 3D content
* 360-degree video
* Head tracking (360°)
 
=== 360° Content ===
Immersive viewing:
* 9-axis IMU tracking
* Head-tracked viewing
* Immersive content
* VR-like experience
 
=== 3D Support ===
Stereoscopic content:
* 3D video playback
* Side-by-side format
* Depth perception
* Cinematic 3D
 
== Package Contents ==
 
=== Included Items ===
Package contents:
* Glyph headset
* HDMI cable
* USB charging cable
* Lens cover
* Optional headstrap
* Carrying case
* Interchangeable nose pieces (4)
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Personal Entertainment ===
Primary use:
* Movie watching
* Video streaming
* Private viewing
* Immersive content
 
=== Gaming ===
Console gaming:
* PlayStation display
* Xbox display
* Portable big-screen
* Gaming immersion
 
=== Drone FPV ===
Aerial viewing:
* Camera drone connection
* First-person viewing
* Immersive flight
* Real-time display
 
=== Travel ===
Portable entertainment:
* Airplane viewing
* Hotel cinema
* Private anywhere
* Compact travel
 
== Comparison with Video Headsets ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Avegant Glyph !! Sony HMZ-T3 !! Cinemizer OLED
|-
| Price || ~$599 || ~$999 || ~$750
|-
| Display Tech || Micromirror || OLED || OLED
|-
| Resolution || 720p/eye || 720p/eye || 640×480/eye
|-
| FOV || 40° || 45° || 35°
|-
| Audio || Integrated premium || Integrated || Earbuds
|-
| Form Factor || Headphones || Visor || Glasses
|-
| Weight || 440g || 320g || 120g
|-
| Unique Feature || RIT, diopter adjust || OLED quality || Compact
|}
 
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* Unique Retinal Imaging Technology
* Premium integrated headphones
* Headphone/display dual form factor
* Wide diopter adjustment (+1 to -7)
* 360° content support with head tracking
* Universal HDMI compatibility
* 3D content support
 
=== Limitations ===
* 720p resolution (lower than competitors)
* 40° FOV (narrower than VR)
* No VR tracking (3DoF for 360° only)
* 440g weight
* Discontinued product
* Company pivoted away
* Limited content ecosystem
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Details
|-
| Display || Retinal Imaging (2M micromirrors)
|-
| Resolution || 1280 × 720 per eye
|-
| FOV || 40° diagonal
|-
| Screen Equivalent || 65" at 8 feet
|-
| Diopter || +1 to -7 adjustment
|-
| Audio || 20Hz-20kHz, 95dB range
|-
| Battery || 2060mAh, ~4 hours
|-
| Connection || Micro HDMI
|-
| Weight || ~440g
|-
| Price || ~$599
|}
 
== See Also ==
* [[Avegant]]
* [[Personal Theater]]
* [[Video Headset]]
* [[Retinal Imaging]]
* [[Sony HMZ]]
* [[FPV Drone]]
 
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
 
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Video Headsets]]
[[Category:Personal Theater]]
[[Category:Consumer Electronics]]
[[Category:Avegant]]
[[Category:Discontinued Devices]]
[[Category:2010s VR]]

Latest revision as of 03:06, 8 January 2026

Avegant Glyph
Basic Info
VR/AR Virtual Reality
Type Head-mounted display
Subtype Personal Theater, Video Headset
Platform HDMI devices (phones, consoles, PCs, drones)
Creator Avegant
Developer Avegant Corporation
Manufacturer Avegant
Announcement Date 2015
Release Date 2016
Price ~$599
Website https://www.avegant.com/ (discontinued)
Versions Avegant Glyph, Glyph HD, Glyph Founder's Edition
Requires HDMI video source
Predecessor None
Successor None (company pivoted)
System
Operating System Android 4.0+ / iOS 7.0+ (smartphone compatible)
Chipset Embedded processor
CPU Embedded
GPU Source device dependent
Storage
Storage N/A
Memory N/A
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display Retinal Imaging Technology (micromirror array)
Subpixel Layout N/A (micromirror)
Peak Brightness Not specified
Resolution 1280 × 720 per eye (2 million micromirrors total)
Pixel Density N/A
Refresh Rate 60Hz
Persistence N/A
Image
Field of View 40° diagonal
Horizontal FoV ~35°
Vertical FoV ~20°
Average Pixel Density N/A
Peak Pixel Density N/A
Foveated Rendering No
Optics
Optics Retinal Imaging Technology (RIT)
Ocularity Binocular
IPD Range Adjustable
Adjustable Diopter Yes (+1 to -7 diopter)
Passthrough No
Tracking
Tracking 3DoF (9-axis IMU for 360° content)
Tracking Frequency N/A
Base Stations None
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking No
Rotational Tracking Yes (360° video only)
Positional Tracking No
Update Rate 60Hz
Tracking Volume N/A
Play Space Seated
Latency Low latency
Audio
Audio Integrated premium headphones
Microphone Yes
3.5mm Audio Jack Yes (audio only input)
Camera No
Connectivity
Connectivity Micro HDMI, Micro USB (charging)
Ports Micro HDMI, Micro USB, 3.5mm audio
Wired Video Yes (Micro HDMI)
Wireless Video No
WiFi No
Bluetooth No
Power Internal Li-ion battery
Battery Capacity 2060mAh
Battery Life ~4 hours (video)
Charge Time Not specified
Device
Dimensions Headphone form factor
Weight ~440g
Material Premium plastic, audio-quality construction
Headstrap Headphone-style band (optional additional strap)
Haptics No
Color Black/Silver
Sensors 9-axis IMU (head tracking for 360° content)
Input Source device controls
Compliance FCC


The Avegant Glyph is a unique personal theater and video headset developed by Avegant Corporation, announced in 2015, launched via Kickstarter, and released in 2016 at approximately $599. Unlike traditional VR headsets that use LCD or OLED displays, the Glyph pioneered "Retinal Imaging Technology" (RIT) using an array of two million micromirrors to beam images directly into the user's eyes—a technology that Avegant claimed produced more natural, eye-strain-reducing visuals similar to how humans perceive the real world. The Glyph's innovative form factor resembles a pair of premium over-ear headphones that flip down to become a personal video display, providing a 1280 × 720 (720p) per eye resolution with 40° diagonal field of view—equivalent to viewing a 65-inch screen from 8 feet away. Supporting most video formats including 3D and 360-degree content (with onboard head tracking), the Glyph connects via Micro HDMI to smartphones, tablets, laptops, gaming consoles, cameras, and drones, with built-in diopter adjustment (+1 to -7) eliminating the need for glasses for most users. The device includes high-quality integrated audio with 20Hz-20kHz frequency response and 4 hours of battery life.

Note: Avegant pivoted away from consumer headsets to focus on light field display technology for AR/automotive applications. The Glyph is no longer in production.

History and Development

Avegant Background

Company origins:

  • Founded by Michigan University researchers
  • Retinal imaging technology focus
  • Kickstarter success
  • Consumer electronics venture

Kickstarter Campaign

Crowdfunding success:

  • 2014 campaign
  • Over $1.5 million raised
  • Enthusiast community
  • Technology validation

2016 Release

Commercial launch:

  • ~$599 retail price
  • Founder's Edition special
  • Consumer availability
  • Unique market position

Company Pivot

Technology evolution:

  • Moved to light field displays
  • AR/automotive focus
  • B2B transition
  • Consumer exit

Design Philosophy

Retinal Imaging Technology

Unique display approach:

  • Micromirror projection
  • Direct retinal imaging
  • Natural eye perception
  • Reduced eye strain

Headphone Form Factor

Dual-purpose design:

  • Premium headphones (up)
  • Video display (down)
  • Familiar form
  • Social acceptability

Personal Theater

Entertainment focus:

  • Private viewing
  • Portable cinema
  • High-quality audio
  • Immersive experience

Universal Compatibility

Wide device support:

  • Smartphones
  • Gaming consoles
  • Laptops/PCs
  • Drones/cameras

Display Technology

Micromirror Array

Retinal Imaging Technology:

  • Technology: DLP micromirror projection
  • Micromirrors: 2 million total
  • Type: Direct retinal projection
  • Unique in consumer market

Resolution

Visual specifications:

  • Resolution: 1280 × 720 per eye
  • Total: 720p HD
  • Aspect: 16:9
  • HD viewing quality

Field of View

Viewing window:

  • FOV: 40° diagonal
  • Equivalent: 65" screen at 8 feet
  • Entertainment-focused
  • Comfortable viewing

Eye Strain Reduction

RIT benefits:

  • Natural light perception
  • Reduced fatigue
  • Comfortable extended viewing
  • Eye-friendly technology

Optical Adjustment

Diopter Adjustment

Vision correction:

  • Range: +1 to -7 diopter
  • Nearsighted accommodation
  • Farsighted accommodation
  • No glasses needed (most users)

IPD Adjustment

Eye alignment:

  • Adjustable positioning
  • User customization
  • Comfortable viewing
  • Wide compatibility

Physical Design

Headphone Form Factor

Unique approach:

  • Over-ear headphone style
  • Display flips down
  • Familiar wearing
  • Portable design

Flip Mechanism

Transformation:

  • Headphones position (up)
  • Display position (down)
  • Quick transition
  • Single device

Weight

Specifications:

  • Weight: ~440g
  • Headphone-equivalent
  • Balanced distribution
  • Extended wear possible

Build Quality

Premium construction:

  • High-quality materials
  • Audio-grade components
  • Durable build
  • Premium feel

Audio System

Premium Headphones

Integrated audio:

  • Over-ear design
  • Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Dynamic Range: 95dB
  • High fidelity

Audio Quality

Performance:

  • Full-range response
  • Clear reproduction
  • Immersive sound
  • Entertainment grade

Audio Input

Connection options:

  • 3.5mm audio input
  • Audio-only mode
  • Music listening
  • Standalone headphones

Connectivity

Micro HDMI

Video input:

  • Micro HDMI connection
  • Universal compatibility
  • Most devices supported
  • Standard interface

Device Compatibility

Supported sources:

  • iPhone/Android smartphones
  • Gaming consoles (Xbox, PlayStation)
  • Laptops/MacBooks
  • PCs and cameras
  • Drones (FPV viewing)

Charging

Power connection:

  • Micro USB charging
  • Standard cable
  • Easy power
  • Universal charging

Battery

Li-ion Battery

Power specifications:

  • Capacity: 2060mAh
  • Life: ~4 hours video
  • Integrated battery
  • Session duration

Portable Power

Mobile use:

  • Self-contained
  • No external power
  • Travel suitable
  • Entertainment ready

Content Support

Video Formats

Content compatibility:

  • Standard video
  • 3D content
  • 360-degree video
  • Head tracking (360°)

360° Content

Immersive viewing:

  • 9-axis IMU tracking
  • Head-tracked viewing
  • Immersive content
  • VR-like experience

3D Support

Stereoscopic content:

  • 3D video playback
  • Side-by-side format
  • Depth perception
  • Cinematic 3D

Package Contents

Included Items

Package contents:

  • Glyph headset
  • HDMI cable
  • USB charging cable
  • Lens cover
  • Optional headstrap
  • Carrying case
  • Interchangeable nose pieces (4)

Use Cases

Personal Entertainment

Primary use:

  • Movie watching
  • Video streaming
  • Private viewing
  • Immersive content

Gaming

Console gaming:

  • PlayStation display
  • Xbox display
  • Portable big-screen
  • Gaming immersion

Drone FPV

Aerial viewing:

  • Camera drone connection
  • First-person viewing
  • Immersive flight
  • Real-time display

Travel

Portable entertainment:

  • Airplane viewing
  • Hotel cinema
  • Private anywhere
  • Compact travel

Comparison with Video Headsets

Feature Avegant Glyph Sony HMZ-T3 Cinemizer OLED
Price ~$599 ~$999 ~$750
Display Tech Micromirror OLED OLED
Resolution 720p/eye 720p/eye 640×480/eye
FOV 40° 45° 35°
Audio Integrated premium Integrated Earbuds
Form Factor Headphones Visor Glasses
Weight 440g 320g 120g
Unique Feature RIT, diopter adjust OLED quality Compact

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths

  • Unique Retinal Imaging Technology
  • Premium integrated headphones
  • Headphone/display dual form factor
  • Wide diopter adjustment (+1 to -7)
  • 360° content support with head tracking
  • Universal HDMI compatibility
  • 3D content support

Limitations

  • 720p resolution (lower than competitors)
  • 40° FOV (narrower than VR)
  • No VR tracking (3DoF for 360° only)
  • 440g weight
  • Discontinued product
  • Company pivoted away
  • Limited content ecosystem

Technical Specifications Summary

Specification Details
Display Retinal Imaging (2M micromirrors)
Resolution 1280 × 720 per eye
FOV 40° diagonal
Screen Equivalent 65" at 8 feet
Diopter +1 to -7 adjustment
Audio 20Hz-20kHz, 95dB range
Battery 2060mAh, ~4 hours
Connection Micro HDMI
Weight ~440g
Price ~$599

See Also

References

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