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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = RealWear Navigator 500
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Assisted Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Android]] 11 (AOSP) + WearHF
|Platform = [[Android]] 11
|Creator = [[RealWear]]
|Developer = [[RealWear]]
|Developer = [[RealWear]]
|Manufacturer = [[RealWear]]
|Manufacturer = [[RealWear]]
|Release Date = December 2021
|Announcement Date = December 8, 2021
|Announcement Date = December 2021
|Release Date = 2022
|Price = Enterprise pricing (~$2,400)
|Price = ~$2,500
|Website = https://www.realwear.com/
|Website = https://www.realwear.com/
|Versions = RealWear Navigator 500
|Requires = None (standalone)
|Predecessor = [[RealWear HMT-1]]
|Predecessor = [[RealWear HMT-1]]
|Successor = [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
|Successor = [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
|Chipset = Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
|Operating System = [[Android]] 11
|Display = Monocular micro-display
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon 662]]
|Resolution = 854x480
|CPU = Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (octa-core)
|GPU = Adreno 610
|HPU =
|Storage = 64GB
|Memory = 4GB RAM
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = LCD (monocular)
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 854 × 480
|Pixel Density = N/A
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Persistence = N/A
|Field of View = 20°
|Field of View = 20°
|Ocularity = Monocular
|Horizontal FoV = ~20°
|Cameras = 48MP main
|Vertical FoV = ~11°
|Audio = Noise-cancelling microphones (100dB)
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Battery = 2600 mAh (8 hours)
|Peak Pixel Density = N/A
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Waveguide/prism
|Ocularity = Monocular (adjustable left/right)
|IPD Range = N/A (monocular)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (compatible with corrective eyewear)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (display only)
|Tracking = 3DoF (IMU)
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = None
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = No
|Update Rate = 60Hz
|Tracking Volume = N/A
|Play Space = Assisted reality
|Latency = <100ms
|Audio = Dual speakers (above ear)
|Microphone = Yes (4 noise-canceling microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 48MP camera with autofocus (1080p @ 60fps video)
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C
|Ports = USB-C, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = No
|Wireless Video = Yes (streaming)
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac dual-band)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.1
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = Not specified
|Battery Life = ~8 hours
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Modular design
|Weight = 272g
|Weight = 272g
|Storage = 64GB + microSD (512GB max)
|Material = Ruggedized plastic
|IP Rating = IP66
|Headstrap = Head-mounted band / hardhat compatible
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, ambient light, barometer
|Input = Voice commands (100% hands-free), head motion
|Compliance = IP66, MIL-STD-810H, ATEX Zone 2 (Navigator 520)
}}
}}


The '''RealWear Navigator 500''' is an enterprise [[assisted reality]] headset developed by [[RealWear]], released December 2021. A rugged hands-free wearable computer for industrial workers, featuring 48MP camera (highest in smart glasses), 100dB noise-cancelling voice control, modular design for accessories, IP66 dust/water resistance, hot-swappable battery (8 hours), and 272g lightweight construction. Designed for inspections, maintenance, and remote assistance in challenging environments.
The '''RealWear Navigator 500''' is a rugged head-mounted wearable computer and [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[RealWear]], announced on December 8, 2021, and released in 2022 at a price of approximately $2,500. As the successor to the popular HMT-1, the Navigator 500 delivers significant improvements while maintaining RealWear's industry-leading voice control and rugged design philosophy: 28% lighter weight (272g vs 380g), upgraded Snapdragon 662 processor, 48MP camera with 1080p @ 60fps video (vs 16MP), and the same proven 100% hands-free voice operation that works in environments up to 100dB noise levels. The Navigator 500 retains the HMT-1's monocular 854 × 480 display with 20° field of view but adds improved battery efficiency, faster charging, and enhanced connectivity. Designed for industrial "deskless workers" in manufacturing, field service, energy, and other frontline environments, the Navigator 500 continues RealWear's "assisted reality" approach—providing glanceable information without obstructing the worker's view.


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


RealWear unveiled the Navigator 500 in December 2021 as successor to the HMT-1. Targeting frontline industrial workers, the Navigator 500 introduced modular design for customization, improved 48MP camera, better voice control, and lighter weight while maintaining rugged durability. The "assisted reality" category focuses on information overlay rather than full AR, prioritizing safety and hands-free operation.<ref name="realwear">{{cite web |url=https://www.realwear.com/devices/navigator-500 |title=RealWear Navigator 500 |publisher=RealWear |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== RealWear Evolution ===
Product line history:
* HMT-1 (2017) - Original platform
* HMT-1Z1 (intrinsically safe)
* Navigator 500 (2021/2022)
* Navigator 520 (2023)


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Market Feedback ===
Customer-driven improvements:
* Weight reduction demand
* Better camera needed
* Faster processing
* Modern connectivity


=== Display ===
=== December 2021 Announcement ===
Navigator 500 reveal:
* 28% lighter than HMT-1
* 48MP camera upgrade
* Snapdragon 662 processor
* 2022 availability


Monocular micro-display:
=== Platform Continuity ===
Software compatibility:
* Android 11
* Existing apps compatible
* Partner ecosystem
* Smooth transition


* '''854x480 resolution'''
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''20° field of view'''
* Monocular (single eye)
* Non-obstructive view
* Information overlay


=== Processing ===
=== Assisted Reality ===
Information overlay:
* Not AR with spatial mapping
* Glanceable information
* Document display
* Video collaboration


* '''Qualcomm Snapdragon 662'''
=== 100% Hands-Free ===
* 2.0 GHz 8-core
Voice-first design:
* Adreno 610 GPU
* Complete voice control
* '''4GB RAM'''
* No hand gestures needed
* '''64GB storage'''
* Industrial practical
* microSD expansion (512GB max)
* Safety compliant


=== Camera ===
=== Lighter, Better ===
Improved HMT-1:
* 272g (vs 380g)
* 28% weight reduction
* Same durability
* Enhanced comfort


Industry-leading:
=== Full-Shift Battery ===
Work day operation:
* ~8 hours battery life
* Complete shift coverage
* Hot-swap capable
* Continuous operation


* '''48MP main camera'''
== Display Technology ==
* Highest megapixel smart glasses
* '''1080p/60fps video'''
* Documentation capable
* Remote assistance ready
* FLIR thermal module optional


=== Voice Control ===
=== Monocular LCD ===
Information display:
* '''Resolution''': 854 × 480
* '''Type''': 24-bit LCD color
* '''Equivalent''': 7" tablet at arm's length
* Same as HMT-1


WearHF interface:
=== Field of View ===
Information window:
* 20° field of view
* Data display focused
* Not immersive
* Glanceable information


* '''100dB noise cancellation'''
=== Display Pod ===
* Hands-free operation
Adjustable positioning:
* Natural language commands
* Rotatable mount
* Industrial noise environments
* Left or right eye
* Safety-critical operation
* Adjustable angle
* User-configurable


=== Audio ===
== Processing ==


* '''Noise-cancelling microphones'''
=== Snapdragon 662 ===
* Industrial-grade
Upgraded processor:
* Clear communication
* '''Platform''': Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
* Remote expert calls
* '''Cores''': Octa-core
* '''RAM''': 4GB
* '''Storage''': 64GB


=== Battery ===
=== Performance Improvement ===
vs HMT-1:
* Faster processor
* More storage (64GB vs 32GB)
* Better efficiency
* Modern platform


* '''2600 mAh'''
== Camera ==
* '''8 hours''' runtime
* '''Hot-swappable'''
* Full shift capability
* No downtime


=== Durability ===
=== 48MP Camera ===
Major upgrade:
* '''Resolution''': 48 megapixels
* '''Video''': 1080p @ 60fps
* '''Autofocus''': Yes
* '''Improvement''': 3× vs HMT-1 (16MP)


Industrial-grade:
=== Camera Applications ===
Use cases:
* Remote expert assistance
* Documentation capture
* Barcode scanning
* Visual inspection


* '''IP66 certified'''
=== Video Quality ===
* Dust tight
1080p @ 60fps:
* Water jet resistant
* Smooth video
* '''2-meter drop tested'''
* High quality streaming
* '''50°C / 122°F''' heat tolerance
* Professional grade
* Extreme conditions
* Expert collaboration


=== Design ===
== Voice Control ==


Modular system:
=== Industry-Leading Voice ===
Best-in-class:
* 100% voice controlled
* No touch needed
* Natural language
* Reliable recognition


* '''272g weight'''
=== Noise Cancellation ===
* Lighter than HMT-1 (380g)
Industrial environment:
* Modular accessory system
* 4 noise-canceling microphones
* Customizable configurations
* Works up to 100dB
* Sensor attachment capable
* Factory floor capable
* Hard hat compatible
* Loud environment tested
 
=== Voice Commands ===
Navigation method:
* Menu navigation
* Application control
* Document scrolling
* Complete functionality
 
=== Language Support ===
International use:
* 15+ languages supported
* English, German, French
* Japanese, Chinese, Korean
* And more
 
== Audio ==
 
=== Dual Speakers ===
Improved audio:
* Two speakers
* Positioned above ears
* Clear in noisy environments
* Communication capable
 
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
Headphone option:
* Private listening
* Hearing protection compatible
* Alternative audio
* User choice
 
== Sensors ==
 
=== Motion Sensors ===
Orientation detection:
* Accelerometer
* Gyroscope
* Magnetometer
* 3DoF tracking
 
=== Environmental Sensors ===
Additional sensing:
* Ambient light sensor
* Barometer
* Location awareness
* Environmental data
 
== Battery ==
 
=== Long-Duration Battery ===
Full-shift operation:
* '''Life''': ~8 hours active
* '''Charging''': ~2 hours
* Hot-swap capable
* Same as HMT-1
 
=== Battery Improvement ===
Efficiency gains:
* More efficient processor
* Same battery life
* Faster charging
* Improved power management
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Lightweight Construction ===
Major improvement:
* '''Weight''': 272g
* 28% lighter than HMT-1 (380g)
* Extended comfort
* Same durability
 
=== Rugged Construction ===
Industrial grade:
* IP66 water/dust resistant
* MIL-STD-810H certified
* Drop tested
* Extreme temperature operation
 
=== Mounting Options ===
Flexible wear:
* Head-mounted band
* Hardhat attachment
* Bump cap mount
* Safety glasses compatible
 
=== Display Boom ===
Adjustable arm:
* Rotatable display pod
* Left or right eye
* Position adjustable
* User preference


== Software ==
== Software ==


=== Operating System ===
=== Android 11 ===
Operating system:
* Modern Android
* Enterprise customization
* App ecosystem
* Regular updates


* '''Android 11 (AOSP)'''
=== RealWear Cloud ===
* '''WearHF™''' interface
Management platform:
* Voice-first interaction
* Device management
* Enterprise management
* Remote configuration
* Fleet deployment
* Enterprise control


=== Applications ===
=== Partner Applications ===
Software ecosystem:
* Microsoft Teams
* Zoom
* Cisco WebEx
* Custom enterprise apps


== Enterprise Applications ==
=== Remote Expert ===
Video collaboration:
* "See what I see"
* Real-time guidance
* Expert consultation
* Problem resolution
=== Manufacturing ===
Production support:
* Assembly guidance
* Quality inspection
* Training support
* Process documentation
=== Field Service ===
Technician support:
* Repair guidance
* Procedure documentation
* Hands-free reference
* Remote assistance
* Remote assistance
* Workflow guidance
* Inspections
* Maintenance procedures
* Training
* Documentation


== Modular Accessories ==
=== Energy ===
Oil and gas:
* Inspection support
* Safety compliance
* Remote expert access
* Hazardous environment capable
 
== Comparison with HMT-1 ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Navigator 500 !! HMT-1
|-
| Price || ~$2,500 || ~$2,500
|-
| Weight || 272g || 380g
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon 662 || Snapdragon 626
|-
| Camera || 48MP (1080p@60fps) || 16MP (1080p@30fps)
|-
| Storage || 64GB || 32GB
|-
| Android || Android 11 || Android 8.1
|-
| Display || 854×480 || 854×480
|-
| FOV || 20° || 20°
|-
| Battery Life || ~8 hours || ~8 hours
|}
 
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* 28% lighter than HMT-1 (272g)
* Industry-leading voice control
* 48MP camera (3× HMT-1)
* 1080p @ 60fps video
* ~8 hours battery life
* IP66/MIL-STD-810H rugged
* 100dB noise environment capable


* FLIR thermal camera
=== Limitations ===
* Barcode scanners
* Same display resolution as HMT-1
* Specialized sensors
* Same FOV (20°)
* Custom modules
* Not true AR (assisted reality)
* Monocular only
* High price point
* Enterprise-only
* 3DoF tracking only


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 142: Line 417:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 854x480 monocular
| Display || LCD, 854 × 480
|-
|-
| FOV || 20°
| FOV || 20°
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon 662
| Processor || Snapdragon 662 (octa-core)
|-
|-
| RAM || 4GB
| Memory || 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
|-
|-
| Storage || 64GB + microSD
| Camera || 48MP, 1080p@60fps video
|-
|-
| Camera || 48MP
| Audio || 4 noise-canceling mics, dual speakers
|-
|-
| Video || 1080p/60fps
| Battery || ~8 hours
|-
|-
| Noise Cancelling || 100dB
| Durability || IP66, MIL-STD-810H
|-
|-
| Battery || 2600 mAh (8 hours)
| Voice Control || 100% hands-free, 100dB tolerance
|-
|-
| Weight || 272g
| Weight || 272g
|-
|-
| IP Rating || IP66
| Price || ~$2,500
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 48MP camera best-in-class
* 100dB voice control
* 8-hour battery
* Hot-swappable battery
* IP66 rugged
* Modular design
* 272g lightweight
* Hands-free safety
* Industrial-proven
'''Criticism:'''
* 854x480 low resolution
* 20° FOV narrow
* Monocular only
* Enterprise pricing
* Not consumer-focused
* Limited AR capabilities
* Assisted reality only
* Specialized use case<ref name="vrexpert">{{cite web |url=https://vrx.vr-expert.com/realwear-navigator-500-review/ |title=RealWear Navigator 500 Review |publisher=VR Expert |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[RealWear]]
* [[RealWear HMT-1]]
* [[RealWear HMT-1]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[ThinkReality A3]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[Assisted Reality]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Assisted Reality]]
[[Category:RealWear]]
[[Category:RealWear]]
[[Category:2021 in technology]]
[[Category:Industrial Wearables]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
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