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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =  
|name = Nreal Air
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]]
|Platform = [[Nebula]] (XREAL)
|Platform = [[Nebula]] app, host device dependent
|Developer = [[XREAL]] (formerly Nreal)
|Creator = [[Nreal]] (now [[XREAL]])
|Manufacturer = [[XREAL]]
|Developer = [[Nreal]]
|Release Date = 2022
|Manufacturer = [[Nreal]]
|Price = $379 USD
|Announcement Date = September 2021
|Release Date = March 4, 2022
|Price = $379
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/
|Display = 2× Micro-OLED
|Versions = Nreal Air
|Resolution = 1920×1080 per eye (Full HD)
|Requires = Compatible smartphone, PC, or gaming device
|Refresh Rate = 60 Hz
|Predecessor = [[Nreal Light]]
|Field of View = 46° diagonal
|Successor = [[XREAL Air 2]]
|Equivalent Screen Size = 130" (virtual)
|Operating System = Host device dependent
|Brightness = High
|Chipset = N/A (display glasses)
|PPD = 49 PPD
|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 Micro-OLED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = 400 nits
|Resolution = 1920 × 1080 per eye (Full HD)
|Pixel Density = 49 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz (up to 90Hz capable)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 46°
|Horizontal FoV = ~46°
|Vertical FoV = ~25°
|Average Pixel Density = 49 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 49 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Birdbath (reflective waveguide)
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Birdbath
|IPD Range = 56-72mm (software adjustable)
|Tracking = 3DoF
|Adjustable Diopter = No (prescription lens inserts available)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (AR glasses)
|Tracking = 3DoF (IMU)
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = None
|Eye Tracking = No
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Audio = Built-in open-ear speakers
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = No
|Update Rate = 60Hz
|Tracking Volume = N/A
|Play Space = Head-locked display
|Latency = <50ms
|Audio = Integrated directional speakers
|Microphone = Yes (dual)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera = No
|Connectivity = USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Connectivity = USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Battery = None (powered by connected device)
|Ports = USB-C
|Battery Life = Up to 5 hours (device dependent)
|Wired Video = Yes (USB-C DP Alt)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = Powered by host device (USB-C)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (host powered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = 148mm × 52mm × 159mm
|Weight = 79g
|Weight = 79g
|Material = Plastic, polycarbonate
|Headstrap = None (glasses temples)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Color = Black
|Sensors = IMU (accelerometer, gyroscope)
|Input = Host device controls
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Nreal Air''' (now marketed as '''XREAL Air''') is a consumer [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[XREAL]] (formerly known as Nreal), released in 2022. The glasses use birdbath optics with dual Micro-OLED displays to project a virtual 130-inch screen, primarily designed for media consumption and gaming. At just 79 grams, the Nreal Air helped establish the lightweight wearable display category and was succeeded by the [[Xreal Air 2]] series.
The '''Nreal Air''' is a consumer-focused pair of [[AR glasses]] developed by [[Nreal]] (now rebranded as [[XREAL]]), announced in September 2021 and released on March 4, 2022, at a price of $379. Designed as a more affordable and lightweight successor to the Nreal Light, the Nreal Air prioritizes media consumption and personal entertainment, featuring dual 1080p Micro-OLED displays capable of projecting up to a 201-inch equivalent virtual screen at 6 meters viewing distance. At just 79 grams—lighter than many traditional sunglasses—the Nreal Air represents a significant step toward socially acceptable AR eyewear, resembling oversized sunglasses rather than a tech-forward headset. With 49 pixels per degree clarity, 46° field of view, and simple USB-C connectivity to compatible smartphones, gaming devices, and computers, the Nreal Air targets users seeking a private, immersive display experience for streaming, gaming, and productivity without the bulk of traditional VR headsets.


Note: XREAL rebranded from "Nreal" in 2023, and the product is now sold under the XREAL brand name.
== History and Development ==


== History and Development ==
=== Nreal Company Background ===
Startup origins:
* Founded 2017
* Magic Leap veterans
* Consumer AR focus
* Lightweight glasses goal
 
=== Nreal Light Foundation ===
First product:
* 2019 developer release
* 106 gram weight
* 6DoF tracking
* Enterprise partnerships
 
=== Simplified Consumer Focus ===
Nreal Air direction:
* Lighter weight (79g)
* Lower price ($379)
* Media consumption focus
* Simplified features
 
=== September 2021 Announcement ===
Product reveal:
* Consumer positioning
* Sunglasses form factor
* Micro-OLED displays
* Spring 2022 availability
 
=== March 2022 Launch ===
Commercial release:
* $379 price point
* Multiple region rollout
* Consumer channel
* Strong reception
 
== Design Philosophy ==
 
=== Sunglasses Form Factor ===
Social acceptability:
* Looks like sunglasses
* 79 gram weight
* Wearable in public
* Fashion-conscious design
 
=== Media First ===
Entertainment focus:
* 201" virtual screen
* Streaming optimized
* Gaming compatible
* Productivity capable
 
=== Simple Connectivity ===
Easy setup:
* Single USB-C cable
* Phone, PC, or console
* Plug and play
* No separate compute
 
=== Affordable AR ===
Consumer pricing:
* $379 price point
* Accessible technology
* Mass market target
* Entry-level AR
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Dual Micro-OLED ===
High-quality panels:
* '''Resolution''': 1920 × 1080 per eye
* '''Type''': Micro-OLED
* '''Brightness''': 400 nits
* '''PPD''': 49 pixels per degree
 
=== Visual Experience ===
Impressive quality:
* Full HD per eye
* Vibrant colors
* Deep blacks (OLED)
* Sharp text


Nreal (now XREAL) was founded in 2017 and released the Nreal Air in 2022 as a consumer-focused AR glasses product. The glasses were designed to provide a large virtual screen experience in a lightweight, sunglasses-like form factor. The company rebranded to XREAL in 2023, and the product line expanded to include the [[Xreal Air 2]] and [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]].<ref name="vrcompare">{{cite web |url=https://vr-compare.com/headset/nrealair |title=Nreal Air: Full Specification |publisher=VRcompare |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Virtual Screen Size ===
Immersive viewing:
* Up to 201" equivalent
* 6m viewing distance
* Private theater experience
* Adjustable positioning


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Refresh Rate ===
Smooth display:
* 60Hz standard
* Up to 90Hz capable
* Adequate for media
* Gaming acceptable


=== Display and Optics ===
== Field of View ==


The Nreal Air uses birdbath optics to reflect images from embedded Micro-OLED displays:
=== 46° Diagonal FOV ===
Focused viewing:
* Centered content
* Not immersive VR-style
* Adequate for media
* Private viewing


* Dual 1920×1080 Micro-OLED displays (one per eye)
== Optical System ==
* 46° diagonal field of view
* 49 pixels per degree (PPD)—significantly higher than [[Oculus Quest 2]]'s 20.5 PPD
* 60 Hz refresh rate
* Birdbath optical system with mirror reflection
* Virtual 130-inch equivalent screen size<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/nreal-air |title=Nreal Air Review: Gaming and Media Greatness Marred by Dongle Madness |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


The birdbath optics provide a larger field of view with reduced distortion compared to some alternative AR display technologies.
=== Birdbath Optics ===
Reflective design:
* Waveguide-based
* Good image quality
* Compact size
* Lightweight


=== Build and Comfort ===
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Software-based:
* '''Range''': 56-72mm
* Software adjustment
* Wide accommodation
* Easy setup


At 79 grams, the Nreal Air is exceptionally lightweight, designed to look similar to oversized Ray-Ban sunglasses. The lightweight design avoids the front-heavy feeling of traditional VR headsets, making extended viewing sessions more comfortable.<ref name="techradar">{{cite web |url=https://www.techradar.com/reviews/nreal-air-ar-glasses |title=Xreal Air and Xreal Beam review: impressive AR tech but still not perfect |publisher=TechRadar |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Prescription Options ===
Vision correction:
* Lens inserts available
* Custom diopter
* Third-party solutions
* Glasses-free use


=== Light Blocking ===
== Tracking ==


The glasses include a lens cover accessory that blocks out ambient light for more immersive viewing in bright environments.
=== 3DoF IMU Tracking ===
Basic orientation:
* Head rotation only
* No positional tracking
* IMU-based
* Display stabilization


=== Audio ===
=== Air Casting Mode ===
Display mode:
* Head-locked display
* Fixed virtual screen
* Simple operation
* Primary use case


Built-in open-ear speakers provide audio output without covering the ears, allowing awareness of surroundings.
=== Nebula 3DoF Mode ===
AR capability:
* Spatial anchoring
* Limited AR features
* Android only
* Extended functionality


== Connectivity ==
== Connectivity ==


The Nreal Air connects via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode:
=== USB-C DisplayPort ===
Primary connection:
* USB-C cable only
* DisplayPort Alt Mode
* Power from host
* Single cable solution
 
=== Device Compatibility ===
Wide support:
* Android smartphones (select models)
* Windows PCs
* Mac (M1/M2)
* Steam Deck
 
=== Gaming Devices ===
Console connection:
* Nintendo Switch (direct)
* Xbox (with adapter)
* PlayStation (with adapter)
* HDMI adapter required
 
=== Nreal Adapter ===
Optional accessory:
* HDMI input
* iOS compatibility
* Console support
* $59 add-on
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Directional Speakers ===
Built-in audio:
* Temple-integrated
* Directional output
* Private listening
* Environmental awareness
 
=== Audio Quality ===
Capable speakers:
* Reasonable quality
* Movie watching
* Gaming audio
* Communication
 
=== Dual Microphones ===
Voice capture:
* Communication calls
* Voice commands
* Recording
* Clear capture
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Sunglasses Style ===
Fashionable appearance:
* Oversized sunglasses look
* Black frame
* Tinted lenses
* Public wearable
 
=== Ultra-Lightweight ===
Exceptional comfort:
* '''Weight''': 79g
* Lighter than predecessor (106g)
* All-day wearable
* No pressure points
 
=== Build Quality ===
Consumer grade:
* Plastic construction
* Polycarbonate lenses
* Flexible temples
* Durable design
 
=== Included Accessories ===
Box contents:
* USB-C cable
* Lens covers
* Carrying case
* Nose pads
 
== Software ==
 
=== Nebula App ===
Android companion:
* 3DoF AR mode
* Multi-window support
* App ecosystem
* Screen mirroring
 
=== MR Space ===
Extended features:
* Multiple virtual screens
* Productivity mode
* AR environment
* Android exclusive
 
=== Basic Display Mode ===
Universal function:
* Mirror display
* No app required
* Any DP Alt device
* Simple operation
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Personal Cinema ===
Entertainment viewing:
* Movie streaming
* TV shows
* Private viewing
* Travel entertainment
 
=== Gaming ===
Portable gaming:
* Steam Deck display
* Nintendo Switch display
* Console gaming
* PC gaming
 
=== Productivity ===
Work applications:
* Multi-monitor simulation
* Document viewing
* Presentations
* Private working


* '''Direct USB-C:''' Android smartphones, computers, Steam Deck
=== Travel ===
* '''With Nreal Adapter ($59):''' Game consoles (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch), iOS devices, HDMI sources
Portable entertainment:
* Airplane viewing
* Hotel room theater
* Compact travel
* Lightweight carry


The adapter requirement for non-USB-C devices was a common criticism in reviews.<ref name="techadvisor">{{cite web |url=https://www.techadvisor.com/article/723317/nreal-air-review.html |title=Nreal Air AR Glasses Review: A Look at the Future |publisher=Tech Advisor |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
== Comparison with Competitors ==


== Reception ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Nreal Air !! Rokid Air !! TCL Nxtwear G
|-
| Price || $379 || $449 || $299
|-
| Resolution || 1920×1080 || 1920×1080 || 1920×1080
|-
| Display Type || Micro-OLED || Micro-OLED || Micro-OLED
|-
| FOV || 46° || 43° || 45°
|-
| Weight || 79g || 83g || 130g
|-
| PPD || 49 || 55 || 49
|-
| AR Mode || 3DoF || 3DoF || No
|}


'''Praise:'''
== Strengths and Limitations ==
* "Among the smartest glasses available in 2022"
* Impressively lightweight at 79 grams
* High pixel density (49 PPD) for crisp text
* Good visual quality with OLED displays
* Large 130-inch virtual screen
* Sunglasses-like design
* Works with Steam Deck for portable gaming


'''Criticism:'''
=== Strengths ===
* Firmware updates could break compatibility
* Ultra-lightweight (79g)
* 60 Hz refresh rate lower than competitors
* High-quality Micro-OLED displays
* Requires adapter for many devices
* 49 PPD sharp visuals
* No spatial tracking (3DoF only)
* Simple USB-C connectivity
* "More of a big monitor for your face"
* Affordable ($379)
* Image flicker reported by some users
* Wide device compatibility
* Limited adjustability
* Sunglasses form factor
* "Minimally viable product" criticism<ref name="dexerto">{{cite web |url=https://www.dexerto.com/tech/nreal-air-glasses-review-2149149/ |title=Nreal Air AR glasses review: A killer concept that's just too early |publisher=Dexerto |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


<ref name="gamingnexus">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamingnexus.com/Article/7728/Nreal-Airs |title=Nreal Airs Review |publisher=Gaming Nexus |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Limitations ===
* No positional tracking (3DoF only)
* Limited FOV (46°)
* Requires compatible host device
* No built-in spatial audio
* Android-exclusive AR features
* Adapter needed for some devices
* No cameras for mixed reality


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


The Nreal Air was succeeded by:
{| class="wikitable"
* '''[[Xreal Air 2]]:''' Improved display, lighter weight
|-
* '''[[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]:''' Added electrochromic dimming
! Specification !! Details
* '''[[Xreal One]]:''' Added X1 spatial computing chip
|-
| Display || Dual Micro-OLED, 1920 × 1080 per eye
|-
| PPD || 49 pixels per degree
|-
| FOV || 46°
|-
| Refresh Rate || 60Hz (up to 90Hz)
|-
| Tracking || 3DoF (IMU)
|-
| Connection || USB-C (DP Alt Mode)
|-
| Audio || Directional speakers, dual mics
|-
| Weight || 79g
|-
| Price || $379
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Xreal Air 2]]
* [[Nreal]] / [[XREAL]]
* [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[Xreal One]]
* [[XREAL Air 2]]
* [[Rokid Air]]
* [[AR Glasses]]
* [[Viture One]]
* [[Consumer AR]]
* [[Micro-OLED]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Consumer AR]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Nreal]]
[[Category:XREAL]]
[[Category:XREAL]]
[[Category:2022 in technology]]
[[Category:Micro-OLED]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Nreal_Air"