Jump to content

Vuzix Blade 2: Difference between revisions

← Older edit
VisualWikitext
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Vuzix Blade 2
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
Line 5: Line 6:
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Android]] 11
|Platform = [[Android]] 11
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Announcement Date = August 24, 2022
|Announcement Date = January 2022 (CES)
|Release Date = September 2022
|Release Date = September 2022
|Price = $1,299.99 USD
|Price = $1,299.99
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-blade-2-smart-glasses
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/
|Versions = Vuzix Blade 2
|Requires = None (standalone)
|Predecessor = [[Vuzix Blade]]
|Predecessor = [[Vuzix Blade]]
|Display = Waveguide (see-through)
|Successor = None announced
|Resolution = 480x480 per eye
|Operating System = [[Android]] 11
|Color Depth = 24-bit full color
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]
|Field of View = 20° diagonal
|CPU = Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1
|Equivalent Screen Size = 6" at arm's length
|GPU = Adreno integrated
|Ocularity = Monocular
|HPU =
|Tracking = 3DoF
|Storage = 40GB
|Camera = HD camera
|Memory = 4GB RAM
|Audio = Stereo speakers, noise-canceling mics
|SD Card Slot = No
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
|Display = Full-color waveguide (Cobra II engine)
|Storage = 40 GB
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Certifications = ANSI Z87.1 (safety)
|Peak Brightness = 2000 nits
|Prescription = Insert available
|Resolution = 480 × 480
|Pixel Density = 24 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Persistence = N/A
|Field of View = 20°
|Horizontal FoV = ~20°
|Vertical FoV = ~20°
|Average Pixel Density = 24 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 24 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Waveguide (in-house)
|Ocularity = Monocular (right eye)
|IPD Range = N/A (monocular)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (prescription compatible)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (AR glasses)
|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 = Integrated speaker
|Microphone = Yes (dual noise-canceling)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera = 8MP autofocus camera (720p@60fps, 1080p@30fps)
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 5 (5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
|Ports = USB-C
|Wired Video = No
|Wireless Video = Yes (streaming)
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac, 5GHz)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.0 (up to 243m range)
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = Not specified
|Battery Life = 2-3 hours (typical use)
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Sunglasses form factor
|Weight = ~100g (estimated)
|Material = Plastic, polycarbonate
|Headstrap = None (glasses temples)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, ambient light sensor
|Input = Touch controls, voice commands
|Compliance = ANSI Z87.1 (safety rated), FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Vuzix Blade 2''' is an enterprise [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Vuzix]], announced on August 24, 2022 and released in September 2022 at $1,299.99. The third-generation Blade model designed specifically for the deskless workforce, the Blade 2 features see-through waveguide optics with 24-bit full-color display, Android 11 operating system, high-performance Qualcomm processor, 40 GB storage, HD camera, ANSI Z87.1 safety certification, and support for enterprise apps like MS Teams, Zoom, and TeamViewer. Targeting healthcare, construction, security, and retail verticals, the Blade 2 delivers hands-free AR for connected workers.
The '''Vuzix Blade 2''' is a standalone enterprise-focused [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[Vuzix]], announced at CES in January 2022 and released in September 2022 at a price of $1,299.99. As the successor to the original Vuzix Blade, the Blade 2 delivers significant improvements in both hardware and capabilities: 5× more storage (40GB vs 8GB), Android 11 operating system, the new Cobra II display engine with 2000 nits peak brightness, and an 8MP autofocus camera capable of 1080p video recording. Designed for enterprise assisted reality applications in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and field service, the Blade 2 maintains a socially acceptable sunglasses form factor while providing ANSI Z87.1 safety certification for industrial environments. With its full-color waveguide display offering 480 × 480 resolution in a 20° field of view, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity up to 243 meters, and comprehensive voice control, the Blade 2 targets hands-free workflows requiring information overlay, remote expert assistance, and documentation.


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


Vuzix announced the Blade 2 on August 24, 2022 as their third-generation Blade smart glasses, succeeding the original Blade. General availability began in September 2022 with shipments to the US, EU, UK, Canada, and Japan. The Blade 2 updates the platform to Android 11 while maintaining the popular Blade form factor, adding enhanced storage, improved connectivity, and enterprise-focused features.<ref name="vuzix">{{cite web |url=https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-blade-2-smart-glasses |title=Vuzix Blade 2 Smart Glasses |publisher=Vuzix |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Vuzix Heritage ===
Company background:
* Founded 1997
* Smart glasses pioneer
* Enterprise focus
* Display technology expertise


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Original Blade ===
First generation:
* 2019 release
* Consumer-enterprise hybrid
* DLP-based display
* Market validation


=== Display ===
=== CES 2022 Announcement ===
Blade 2 reveal:
* Improved specifications
* Cobra II display
* Android 11
* Enterprise focus


See-through waveguide technology:
=== September 2022 Launch ===
Commercial release:
* $1,299.99 price
* Global availability
* Enterprise channel
* Partner ecosystem


* '''480x480 per eye''' resolution
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''See-through waveguide optics'''
* '''24-bit full-color''' images
* '''20° diagonal FOV'''
* '''6-inch equivalent''' at arm's length
* Ultrabright display
* Indoor/outdoor usable
* Private display view
* Crisp imagery


=== Processing ===
=== Sunglasses Form Factor ===
Social acceptability:
* Normal glasses appearance
* Workplace appropriate
* Public wearable
* Professional design
 
=== Assisted Reality ===
Information overlay:
* Glanceable data
* Hands-free access
* Document display
* Communication
 
=== Enterprise-First ===
Professional focus:
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* Industrial environments
* Enterprise software partners
* Professional support
 
=== Standalone Operation ===
Self-contained:
* Android 11 OS
* No phone required
* Full processing
* Complete device
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Cobra II Display Engine ===
Next-generation optics:
* '''Resolution''': 480 × 480
* '''Brightness''': 2000 nits peak
* '''Technology''': Full-color waveguide
* '''Position''': Right eye
 
=== Waveguide Optics ===
In-house technology:
* See-through design
* Color display
* Compact integration
* Professional quality
 
=== 2000 Nits Brightness ===
Outdoor capable:
* Extreme brightness
* Outdoor visibility
* Bright environments
* Always visible
 
=== Pixel Density ===
Information clarity:
* 24 PPD
* Text legible
* Icons clear
* Professional adequate
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== 20° FOV ===
Glanceable display:
* Information window
* Non-intrusive
* Quick reference
* Assisted reality style
 
=== Monocular Display ===
Single-eye design:
* Right eye only
* Minimal obstruction
* Eye fatigue reduced
* Depth perception maintained
 
== Processing ==
 
=== Snapdragon XR1 ===
Purpose-built processor:
* '''Platform''': Qualcomm XR1
* '''RAM''': 4GB
* '''Storage''': 40GB
* Optimized for AR


* '''High-performance Qualcomm processor'''
=== Performance ===
* '''Android 11 OS'''
Capable processing:
* Power efficient
* Android 11 apps
* Enterprise app support
* Video streaming
* '''40 GB storage'''
* AR applications
* Enhanced security
* Voice processing


=== Tracking ===
=== Storage Improvement ===
Major upgrade:
* 40GB (vs 8GB original)
* 5× increase
* Local content
* Offline capability


* '''3DoF tracking'''
== Camera System ==
* Head tracking
* Orientation sensing


=== Camera ===
=== 8MP Autofocus ===
Improved capture:
* '''Resolution''': 8 megapixels
* '''Autofocus''': Yes
* '''Video''': 720p@60fps, 1080p@30fps
* Better than original


* '''HD camera'''
=== Camera Applications ===
* Photo/video capture
Use cases:
* Remote assistance support
* Remote expert assistance
* Documentation capability
* Documentation capture
* Barcode scanning
* Visual inspection


=== Audio ===
=== Video Streaming ===
Real-time sharing:
* "See what I see"
* Expert guidance
* Live collaboration
* Remote support


* '''Stereo speakers''' (in-temple)
== Connectivity ==
* '''Noise-canceling microphones'''
* Clear communication
* Voice control support


=== Build ===
=== Wi-Fi 5 (5GHz) ===
Fast wireless:
* 802.11ac
* 5GHz band
* Enterprise networks
* Streaming capable


Enterprise-grade design:
=== Bluetooth 5.0 ===
Extended range:
* Up to 243 meters (800 feet)
* Stable connection
* Audio devices
* Accessories


* '''ANSI Z87.1 certified'''
=== USB-C ===
* Safety glasses protection
Modern connectivity:
* Lightweight form factor
* Charging
* All-day comfort
* Data transfer
* '''Prescription inserts available'''
* Accessory support
* Professional appearance
* Standard port
* Glasses form factor


=== Connectivity ===
== Audio System ==


Enhanced wireless:
=== Integrated Speaker ===
Built-in audio:
* Temple speaker
* Notification sounds
* Voice feedback
* Communication


* '''Wi-Fi''' (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
=== Dual Noise-Canceling Microphones ===
* '''Bluetooth'''
Voice capture:
* Improved connectivity options
* Clear voice pickup
* MDM tool integration
* Noise reduction
* Voice commands
* Communication calls


=== Controls ===
=== Voice Control ===
Hands-free operation:
* Voice commands
* Navigation
* Application control
* Dictation


Multiple input methods:
== Safety Certification ==


* '''Touchpad'''
=== ANSI Z87.1 ===
* '''Voice control'''
Industrial standard:
* '''Head tracking'''
* Impact resistant
* Hands-free operation
* Eye protection
* Versatile input options
* Industrial approved
* Safety compliant
 
=== Workplace Ready ===
Enterprise environments:
* Manufacturing floors
* Warehouse operations
* Field service
* Healthcare facilities
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Sunglasses Style ===
Wearable design:
* Normal appearance
* Lightweight (~100g)
* Comfortable wear
* All-day capable
 
=== Build Quality ===
Professional construction:
* Durable materials
* Polycarbonate lenses
* Quality finish
* Enterprise grade
 
=== Prescription Compatible ===
Vision correction:
* Prescription lens inserts
* Corrective options
* User accommodation
* Wide compatibility
 
== Battery ==
 
=== Internal Battery ===
Integrated power:
* 2-3 hours typical use
* ~2 hours charge time
* USB-C charging
* Hot-swap via external battery
 
== Software Platform ==
 
=== Android 11 ===
Modern OS:
* Full Android
* App ecosystem
* Regular updates
* Enterprise features
 
=== Vuzix Software ===
First-party tools:
* Vuzix App Store
* Companion app
* Remote management
* Analytics
 
=== Enterprise Partners ===
Software ecosystem:
* Microsoft Teams
* Zoom
* TeamViewer
* Custom enterprise apps


== Enterprise Applications ==
== Enterprise Applications ==


=== Software Support ===
=== Remote Expert ===
* '''MS Teams'''
Video collaboration:
* '''Zoom'''
* Live video streaming
* '''TeamViewer'''
* Expert guidance
* Enterprise-focused apps
* Real-time support
* Android 11 ecosystem
* Problem resolution


=== Industry Verticals ===
=== Healthcare ===
* '''Healthcare'''
Medical use:
* '''Construction'''
* Patient information
* '''Security'''
* Procedure guidance
* '''Retail'''
* Documentation
* Manufacturing
* Telehealth
* Field service
 
=== Manufacturing ===
Production support:
* Assembly guidance
* Quality inspection
* Work instructions
* Hands-free reference
 
=== Field Service ===
Technician support:
* Repair guidance
* Documentation access
* Remote assistance
* Procedure display
 
=== Logistics ===
Warehouse operations:
* Order picking
* Inventory management
* Barcode scanning
* Workflow guidance


== Technical Specifications ==
== Comparison with Original Blade ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Specification !! Details
! Feature !! Vuzix Blade 2 !! Vuzix Blade
|-
| Price || $1,299 || $799 (at launch)
|-
| Storage || 40GB || 8GB
|-
| Display Engine || Cobra II || DLP
|-
|-
| Display || 480x480 waveguide
| Brightness || 2000 nits || 1000 nits
|-
|-
| Color || 24-bit full color
| Camera || 8MP (1080p) || 8MP (720p)
|-
|-
| FOV || 20° diagonal
| Android || Android 11 || Android 5.1
|-
|-
| Processor || Qualcomm
| Bluetooth Range || 243m || ~10m
|}
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
| OS || Android 11
! Feature !! Vuzix Blade 2 !! RealWear HMT-1 !! Google Glass EE2
|-
|-
| Storage || 40 GB
| Price || $1,299 || ~$2,500 || $999
|-
|-
| Camera || HD
| Form Factor || Sunglasses || Rugged headset || Glasses
|-
|-
| Audio || Stereo + noise-canceling mics
| Resolution || 480×480 || 854×480 || 640×360
|-
|-
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
| FOV || 20° || 20° || ~15°
|-
| Camera || 8MP || 16MP || 8MP
|-
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
| Weight || ~100g || 380g || 46g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,299.99
| Safety Rating || ANSI Z87.1 || IP66/MIL-STD || N/A
|}
|}


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


'''Praise:'''
=== Strengths ===
* Android 11 updated platform
* Sunglasses form factor
* 40 GB storage generous
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* Waveguide optics see-through
* 2000 nits brightness
* Enterprise app support (Teams, Zoom)
* 40GB storage (5× original)
* Prescription insert option
* Android 11 OS
* Noise-canceling audio
* Long Bluetooth range (243m)
* MDM integration
* 8MP autofocus camera
* Hands-free operation
 
* Professional design
=== Limitations ===
* Limited FOV (20°)
* Lower resolution (480×480)
* Monocular only
* No spatial tracking
* Higher price than original
* Not true AR (assisted reality)
* Battery life (2-3 hours)
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


'''Criticism:'''
{| class="wikitable"
* $1,299.99 enterprise pricing
|-
* 480x480 resolution limited
! Specification !! Details
* 20° FOV narrow
|-
* 3DoF only (no 6DoF)
| Display || Waveguide, 480 × 480
* Monocular display
|-
* Enterprise-only focus
| Brightness || 2000 nits peak
* Limited consumer appeal
|-
* Competition from others
| FOV || 20°
* Niche market<ref name="prnewswire">{{cite web |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vuzix-announces-general-availability-of-blade-2-smart-glasses-301635623.html |title=Vuzix Blade 2 Announcement |publisher=PR Newswire |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR1
|-
| Memory || 4GB RAM, 40GB storage
|-
| Camera || 8MP autofocus
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
|-
| Battery || 2-3 hours
|-
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
|-
| Price || $1,299.99
|}


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Vuzix]]
* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Vuzix M4000]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Vuzix Shield]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[ThinkReality A3]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[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:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:2022 in technology]]
[[Category:Snapdragon XR1]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Vuzix_Blade_2"