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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Epson Moverio BT-40
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]], [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = USB-C tethered (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Platform = Host device dependent (USB-C)
|Creator = [[Epson]]
|Developer = [[Epson]]
|Developer = [[Epson]]
|Manufacturer = [[Epson]]
|Manufacturer = [[Epson]]
|Release Date = 2021
|Announcement Date = March 2, 2021
|Price = $579 USD (BT-40) / $999 USD (BT-40S)
|Release Date = March 2021
|Website = https://epson.com/For-Work/Wearables/Smart-Glasses/Moverio-BT-40-Smart-Glasses-with-USB-Type-C-Connectivity-/p/V11H969020
|Price = $579 (BT-40), $999 (BT-40S with controller)
|Predecessor = [[Epson Moverio BT-35E]]
|Website = https://www.epson.com/
|Display = Si-OLED (see-through)
|Versions = Moverio BT-40, Moverio BT-40S
|Resolution = Full HD 1080p binocular
|Requires = USB-C compatible device (phone, PC, etc.)
|Contrast Ratio = 500,000:1
|Predecessor = [[Epson Moverio BT-300]]
|Successor = None announced
|Operating System = Host device dependent
|Chipset = N/A (display glasses)
|CPU = N/A (host device)
|GPU = N/A (host device)
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A (host device)
|Memory = N/A (host device)
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual Si-OLED (Gen 4)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 1920 × 1080 per eye (Full HD)
|Pixel Density = N/A
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 34°
|Field of View = 34°
|Equivalent Screen Size = 120" at 16 feet
|Horizontal FoV = ~34°
|Vertical FoV = ~19°
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Peak Pixel Density = N/A
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Proprietary projection optics
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Sensors = GPS, Accelerometer, Compass, Head Tracking
|IPD Range = Not specified
|Audio = 3.5mm audio jack
|Adjustable Diopter = No (prescription lens inserts available)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (transparent display)
|Tracking = 6DoF (IMU + camera based, BT-40S only)
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = None
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes (9-axis IMU)
|Positional Tracking = Yes (BT-40S with controller)
|Update Rate = 60Hz
|Tracking Volume = N/A
|Play Space = Mobile AR
|Latency = <50ms
|Audio = No (headphones required)
|Microphone = No
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera = 5MP camera (BT-40S controller)
|Connectivity = USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Connectivity = USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Weight = Light (glasses only)
|Ports = USB-C
|Wired Video = Yes (USB-C DP Alt)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No (in glasses)
|Bluetooth = No (in glasses)
|Power = Powered by host device (USB-C)
|Battery Capacity = N/A (BT-40), controller has battery (BT-40S)
|Battery Life = N/A (host powered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = Glasses: ~191mm × 178mm × 25mm
|Weight = ~95g (glasses), ~185g (controller)
|Material = Plastic, polycarbonate
|Headstrap = None (glasses temples)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = 9-axis motion sensor (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer), ambient light sensor
|Input = Host device controls, controller (BT-40S)
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Epson Moverio BT-40''' is a consumer [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Epson]], released in March 2021. The BT-40 features Epson's Si-OLED technology delivering Full HD 1080p binocular displays with an exceptional 500,000:1 contrast ratio, appearing like a 120-inch screen from 16 feet away with a 34° field of view. Using plug-and-play USB Type-C connectivity with DisplayPort Alt Mode, the glasses work with compatible smartphones, tablets, and laptops without requiring onboard processing. Available as the basic BT-40 ($579) or BT-40S ($999) with an intelligent Android touch controller, the Moverio BT-40 targets AR development, entertainment, and personal viewing applications.
The '''Epson Moverio BT-40''' is a pair of see-through [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Epson]], announced on March 2, 2021, and released in March 2021 at a price of $579 ($999 for the BT-40S variant with intelligent controller). Representing Epson's fourth generation of Moverio smart glasses, the BT-40 delivers a significant upgrade over the BT-300 series with full HD 1080p resolution per eye using Gen 4 Si-OLED technology—a 225% field of view increase from the previous generation's 23° to an impressive 34°, equivalent to viewing a 120-inch screen from 15 feet. Designed as a lightweight display solution that connects via USB-C to compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers, the BT-40 targets applications ranging from personal entertainment and drone piloting to enterprise documentation and training. The BT-40S variant adds an intelligent controller with built-in camera, GPS, and processing capabilities for standalone AR applications.


== History and Development ==
== History and Development ==


Epson announced the Moverio BT-40 in March 2021 as the next generation of its Moverio AR smart glasses line. The BT-40 simplified the design by using USB-C tethering to host devices rather than integrated processing, reducing weight and complexity while delivering superior display quality. The BT-40S variant includes the BO-IC400 intelligent touch controller running Android 9.0 for standalone AR applications. The Moverio line has been a pioneer in see-through AR glasses since the original BT-100 in 2011.<ref name="epson">{{cite web |url=https://news.epson.com/news/moverio-bt-40-40s-ar-smart-glasses |title=Epson Unveils Next Generation of Moverio AR Smart Glasses |publisher=Epson |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Moverio Heritage ===
Product line evolution:
* BT-100 (2011) - First generation
* BT-200 (2014) - Consumer focused
* BT-300 (2016) - Lighter design
* BT-40 (2021) - HD resolution


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Si-OLED Technology ===
Display innovation:
* Epson proprietary technology
* Silicon OLED microdisplays
* High contrast
* Compact size


=== Display ===
=== March 2021 Announcement ===
Product reveal:
* Full HD resolution
* 34° field of view
* USB-C connectivity
* Consumer and enterprise


Premium Si-OLED technology:
=== Market Positioning ===
Target applications:
* Personal entertainment
* Drone FPV viewing
* Enterprise training
* Professional applications


* '''Full HD 1080p''' binocular display
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Si-OLED technology''' (Silicon OLED)
* '''500,000:1 contrast ratio'''
* '''34° field of view'''
* Appears like '''120-inch screen''' at 16 feet
* See-through optics
* Transparent when not displaying
* Crisp, bright images
* True blacks (OLED)


=== Optics ===
=== Display-Only Simplicity ===
Focused approach:
* High-quality display glasses
* Host device dependency
* Lightweight design
* Simple operation
 
=== USB-C Universal ===
Wide compatibility:
* Single cable connection
* Power from host
* DisplayPort Alt Mode
* Cross-platform
 
=== Enterprise Ready ===
Professional use:
* Documentation viewing
* Training applications
* Field service
* Drone operations
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Gen 4 Si-OLED ===
Advanced display:
* '''Resolution''': 1920 × 1080 per eye
* '''Type''': Silicon OLED
* '''Size''': 0.45-inch panels
* '''Contrast''': 500,000:1
 
=== Full HD Per Eye ===
High resolution:
* 1080p each eye
* Binocular 3D capable
* Sharp text
* Detailed images
 
=== Virtual Screen Size ===
Immersive viewing:
* Equivalent to 120" screen
* 15 feet viewing distance
* Private viewing
* Large virtual display
 
=== Si-OLED Advantages ===
Technology benefits:
* High contrast ratio
* Deep blacks
* Vivid colors
* Power efficient
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== 34° Diagonal FOV ===
Significant improvement:
* 225% larger than BT-300
* Previous: 23°
* Current: 34°
* Major advancement
 
=== Virtual Display ===
Practical viewing:
* Focused content area
* Document viewing
* Video watching
* Information display
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== See-Through Design ===
Transparent display:
* Real-world visible
* AR capability
* Environmental awareness
* Safety maintained
 
=== Optical Quality ===
Clear imaging:
* Minimal distortion
* Good color
* Transparent overlay
* Professional grade
 
== Connectivity ==


* Binocular stereoscopic display
=== USB-C DisplayPort ===
* See-through design
Universal connection:
* Peripheral vision maintained
* Single cable operation
* '''Magnetic shade attachment''' (for outdoor use)
* Power delivery
* Fits over prescription eyewear
* Video input
* Wide compatibility
 
=== Device Compatibility ===
Supported hosts:
* Android smartphones (DP Alt)
* Windows PCs
* Mac computers
* USB-C tablets


=== Sensors ===
=== Simple Operation ===
Easy use:
* Plug and display
* No additional setup
* Mirror or extend
* Immediate use


Built-in tracking:
== Physical Design ==


* '''GPS'''
=== Lightweight Construction ===
* '''Accelerometer'''
Portable design:
* '''Compass'''
* '''Weight''': ~95g (glasses only)
* '''Head tracking'''
* Comfortable wear
* '''Motion tracking'''
* Extended use capable
* 6DoF development support
* Portable


=== Connectivity ===
=== Glasses Form Factor ===
Wearable design:
* Temple-mounted
* Over-ear fit
* Adjustable nose pad
* Glasses compatible


Plug-and-play design:
=== Build Quality ===
Durable construction:
* Quality plastics
* Polycarbonate lenses
* Professional finish
* Reliable design


* '''USB Type-C''' connection
== Sensors ==
* '''DisplayPort Alt Mode''' required
* Compatible with smartphones
* Compatible with tablets
* Compatible with laptops
* Cable housing unit (belt clip)
* '''3.5mm audio jack'''


=== Build ===
=== 9-Axis Motion Sensor ===
Orientation detection:
* Accelerometer
* Gyroscope
* Magnetometer
* Head tracking capable


Comfortable glasses form:
=== Ambient Light Sensor ===
Automatic adjustment:
* Environment sensing
* Display optimization
* Comfort enhancement
* Power management


* Lightweight glasses design
== BT-40S Variant ==
* Ergonomic fit
* Flexible temple hinges
* Optional nose pads
* Fits wide range of head sizes
* Over-prescription compatible
* Conventional glasses appearance


== Variants ==
=== Intelligent Controller ===
Enhanced functionality:
* Separate processing unit
* Android-based
* Standalone capabilities
* Additional sensors


=== BT-40 (Basic) ===
=== Controller Specifications ===
* $579 MSRP
Smart controller:
* Glasses only
* '''Weight''': ~185g
* USB-C tethered to host device
* '''Camera''': 5MP
* Display and sensors only
* '''GPS''': Integrated
* Host device provides processing
* '''Battery''': Built-in


=== BT-40S (with Controller) ===
=== 6DoF Capability ===
* $999 MSRP
Advanced tracking:
* Includes '''BO-IC400 controller'''
* Camera-based tracking
* '''Android 9.0''' (Google certified)
* Position awareness
* Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
* AR applications
* '''13 MP autofocus camera'''
* Enhanced functionality
* Flashlight
* Noise-canceling microphone
* Touchscreen interface
* Expandable storage (up to 2 TB)
* IPx2 rated
* 5-hour battery life
* Google Play compatible


== Applications ==
=== Standalone Operation ===
Independent use:
* Android applications
* AR content
* No phone required
* Complete solution


=== AR Development ===
== Use Cases ==
* Lens development platform
* Prototype testing
* AR experience creation
* SDK support


=== Entertainment ===
=== Personal Entertainment ===
* Personal cinema experience
Consumer use:
* Gaming
* Private movie viewing
* Video viewing
* Gaming display
* 120" virtual screen
* Travel entertainment
* Personal screen


=== Drone Operation ===
=== Drone Operations ===
* FPV viewing
FPV applications:
* Drone control
* First-person view
* Flight monitoring
* Hands-free operation
* Aerial photography
* Aerial photography


=== Professional ===
=== Enterprise Training ===
* Presentations
Professional applications:
* Training
* Procedure guidance
* Remote viewing
* Documentation access
* Design visualization
* Hands-free reference
* Field service


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Medical Applications ===
Healthcare use:
* Patient information
* Procedure guidance
* Training support
* Documentation
 
== Audio ==
 
=== No Built-In Audio ===
Headphones required:
* 3.5mm from host device
* Bluetooth headphones
* External audio
* User choice
 
== Comparison with BT-300 ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Specification !! BT-40 !! BT-40S
! Feature !! Moverio BT-40 !! Moverio BT-300
|-
| Price || $579 || $699 (at launch)
|-
| Resolution || 1920×1080/eye || 1280×720/eye
|-
| FOV || 34° || 23°
|-
|-
| Display || Full HD 1080p Si-OLED || Same
| Weight || ~95g || ~69g
|-
|-
| FOV || 34° || Same
| Connection || USB-C || HDMI/USB
|-
|-
| Contrast || 500,000:1 || Same
| Display Tech || Gen 4 Si-OLED || Si-OLED
|-
| Controller || Optional (BT-40S) || Included
|}
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
| Virtual Screen || 120" at 16' || Same
! Feature !! Epson BT-40 !! Nreal Air !! Rokid Air
|-
|-
| Connection || USB-C || USB-C + Controller
| Price || $579 || $379 || $449
|-
|-
| Controller || Not included || Android 9.0
| Resolution || 1920×1080 || 1920×1080 || 1920×1080
|-
|-
| Camera || Via host device || 13 MP (controller)
| Display Type || Si-OLED || Micro-OLED || Micro-OLED
|-
|-
| Battery || Via host || 5 hours (controller)
| FOV || 34° || 46° || 43°
|-
|-
| Price || $579 || $999
| Weight || ~95g || 79g || 83g
|-
| See-Through || Yes || Yes || Yes
|}
|}


== Reception ==
== Strengths and Limitations ==


'''Praise:'''
=== Strengths ===
* Full HD 1080p impressive resolution
* Full HD 1080p per eye
* 500,000:1 contrast outstanding
* 500,000:1 contrast (Si-OLED)
* Si-OLED true blacks
* 34° FOV (225% improvement)
* 34° FOV wider than competitors
* Lightweight (~95g)
* 120" equivalent screen immersive
* USB-C universal connectivity
* Plug-and-play convenient
* See-through design
* Fits over prescription glasses
* Enterprise-ready
* Lightweight design
 
* BT-40S Android controller versatile
=== Limitations ===
* Head tracking for AR development
* Narrower FOV than competitors
* No built-in audio
* No integrated tracking (BT-40)
* Higher price than consumer alternatives
* Requires USB-C DP Alt Mode
* Limited standalone capability
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


'''Criticism:'''
{| class="wikitable"
* Requires DisplayPort Alt Mode host
|-
* Limited device compatibility
! Specification !! Details
* No standalone capability (BT-40)
|-
* BT-40S controller separate
| Display || Dual Si-OLED, 1920 × 1080 per eye
* $579-$999 pricing
|-
* Limited mainstream appeal
| Contrast || 500,000:1
* Niche use cases
|-
* Wired connection required<ref name="bhphoto">{{cite web |url=https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1634767-REG/epson_v11h969020_moverio_bt_40_smart_glasses.html |title=Epson Moverio BT-40 |publisher=B&H Photo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
| FOV || 34°
|-
| Refresh Rate || 60Hz
|-
| Connection || USB-C (DP Alt Mode)
|-
| Sensors || 9-axis motion, ambient light
|-
| Weight || ~95g (glasses)
|-
| Price || $579 (BT-40), $999 (BT-40S)
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Epson Moverio BT-35E]]
* [[Epson]]
* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Epson Moverio BT-300]]
* [[Xreal Air 2]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[Rokid Max]]
* [[Si-OLED]]
* [[Consumer AR]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Consumer AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Epson]]
[[Category:Epson]]
[[Category:2021 in technology]]
[[Category:Si-OLED]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
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