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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Nreal Air
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]]
|Platform = USB-C display (multi-device)
|Platform = [[Nebula]] app, host device dependent
|Developer = [[Nreal]] (now [[Xreal]])
|Creator = [[Nreal]] (now [[XREAL]])
|Developer = [[Nreal]]
|Manufacturer = [[Nreal]]
|Manufacturer = [[Nreal]]
|Release Date = 2022
|Announcement Date = September 2021
|Price = $379 USD
|Release Date = March 4, 2022
|Price = $379
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/
|Successor = [[Xreal Air 2]]
|Versions = Nreal Air
|Display = Sony Micro-OLED
|Requires = Compatible smartphone, PC, or gaming device
|Resolution = 1920x1080 per eye
|Predecessor = [[Nreal Light]]
|Refresh Rate = 60 Hz
|Successor = [[XREAL Air 2]]
|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 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°
|Field of View = 46°
|Equivalent Screen Size = 130" virtual display
|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
|Tracking = 3DoF
|IPD Range = 56-72mm (software adjustable)
|Audio = In-stem speakers
|Adjustable Diopter = No (prescription lens inserts available)
|Connectivity = USB-C
|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 = 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)
|Ports = USB-C
|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
|Sensors = IMU (accelerometer, gyroscope)
|Input = Host device controls
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''Nreal Air''' (now '''Xreal Air''') is a consumer [[augmented reality]] [[AR glasses]] developed by [[Nreal]] (now [[Xreal]]), released in 2022 at $379. A lighter, more affordable alternative to the Nreal Light, the Air features Sony Micro-OLED displays at 1920x1080 per eye, 46° field of view appearing as a 130-inch virtual screen, 3DoF tracking, and an ultra-lightweight 79g design. Connecting via USB-C to smartphones, tablets, PCs, and game consoles, the Nreal Air excels as a portable big-screen media consumption device and gaming display rather than a full AR platform.
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.


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


Nreal announced the Air in September 2021 as a consumer-focused alternative to the more expensive Nreal Light. The glasses launched in 2022 across various markets, later becoming available in the US through carriers and direct sales. Nreal rebranded to Xreal in 2023, with the Air continuing as part of the Xreal Air lineup. The Air's success led to the Xreal Air 2 and Air 2 Pro successors with improved specifications.<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/nreal-air |title=Nreal Air Review |publisher=Tom's Hardware |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Nreal Company Background ===
Startup origins:
* Founded 2017
* Magic Leap veterans
* Consumer AR focus
* Lightweight glasses goal


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Nreal Light Foundation ===
First product:
* 2019 developer release
* 106 gram weight
* 6DoF tracking
* Enterprise partnerships


=== Display ===
=== Simplified Consumer Focus ===
Nreal Air direction:
* Lighter weight (79g)
* Lower price ($379)
* Media consumption focus
* Simplified features


Sony Micro-OLED technology:
=== 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
 
=== Virtual Screen Size ===
Immersive viewing:
* Up to 201" equivalent
* 6m viewing distance
* Private theater experience
* Adjustable positioning
 
=== Refresh Rate ===
Smooth display:
* 60Hz standard
* Up to 90Hz capable
* Adequate for media
* Gaming acceptable
 
== Field of View ==
 
=== 46° Diagonal FOV ===
Focused viewing:
* Centered content
* Not immersive VR-style
* Adequate for media
* Private viewing
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Birdbath Optics ===
Reflective design:
* Waveguide-based
* Good image quality
* Compact size
* Lightweight


* '''1920x1080 per eye''' resolution
=== IPD Adjustment ===
* '''Sony Micro-OLED''' panels
Software-based:
* '''60 Hz refresh rate'''
* '''Range''': 56-72mm
* '''46° field of view'''
* Software adjustment
* '''130-inch equivalent''' virtual display
* Wide accommodation
* Semi-transparent view
* Easy setup
* True blacks (OLED)
* Quality imagery


=== Tracking ===
=== Prescription Options ===
Vision correction:
* Lens inserts available
* Custom diopter
* Third-party solutions
* Glasses-free use


* '''3DoF tracking'''
== Tracking ==
* Rotational tracking only
 
=== 3DoF IMU Tracking ===
Basic orientation:
* Head rotation only
* No positional tracking
* No positional tracking
* AR Space mode (Android)
* IMU-based
* Display stabilization
 
=== Air Casting Mode ===
Display mode:
* Head-locked display
* Fixed virtual screen
* Simple operation
* Primary use case
 
=== Nebula 3DoF Mode ===
AR capability:
* Spatial anchoring
* Limited AR features
* Android only
* Extended functionality
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== 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


=== Audio ===
=== Gaming Devices ===
Console connection:
* Nintendo Switch (direct)
* Xbox (with adapter)
* PlayStation (with adapter)
* HDMI adapter required


* '''In-stem speakers'''
=== Nreal Adapter ===
* Hidden in glasses arms
Optional accessory:
* Immersive audio
* HDMI input
* Decent quality
* iOS compatibility
* Open-ear design
* Console support
* $59 add-on


=== Build ===
== Audio System ==


Ultra-lightweight design:
=== Directional Speakers ===
Built-in audio:
* Temple-integrated
* Directional output
* Private listening
* Environmental awareness


* '''79g weight'''
=== Audio Quality ===
* Sunglasses form factor
Capable speakers:
* Compact design
* Reasonable quality
* '''5.83 x 2.36 x 2.05 inches'''
* Movie watching
* Portable
* Gaming audio
* Comfortable extended wear
* Communication
 
=== Dual Microphones ===
Voice capture:
* Communication calls
* Voice commands
* Recording
* Clear capture


=== Connectivity ===
== Physical Design ==


Universal device support:
=== Sunglasses Style ===
Fashionable appearance:
* Oversized sunglasses look
* Black frame
* Tinted lenses
* Public wearable


* '''USB-C connection'''
=== Ultra-Lightweight ===
* '''Android phones'''
Exceptional comfort:
* '''iOS (iPhone 15+)'''
* '''Weight''': 79g
* '''PC/Mac'''
* Lighter than predecessor (106g)
* '''Tablets'''
* All-day wearable
* '''Game consoles'''
* No pressure points
* '''Steam Deck'''
* No onboard battery (device-powered)


== Included Accessories ==
=== Build Quality ===
Consumer grade:
* Plastic construction
* Polycarbonate lenses
* Flexible temples
* Durable design


* Nreal Air glasses
=== Included Accessories ===
* '''Three nose grips''' (one pre-installed)
Box contents:
* '''Light shield''' (VR-like blocking)
* Compact carrying case
* USB-C cable
* USB-C cable
* Lens covers
* Carrying case
* Nose pads


== Features ==
== Software ==


=== Nebula App (Mac) ===
=== Nebula App ===
* Multi-window workstation
Android companion:
* M1/M2 chip MacBook support
* 3DoF AR mode
* Virtual displays
* Multi-window support
* Productivity workspace
* App ecosystem
* Screen mirroring


=== AR Space (Android) ===
=== MR Space ===
* 3DoF experiences
Extended features:
* AR app suite
* Multiple virtual screens
* Compatible Android devices only
* Productivity mode
* AR environment
* Android exclusive


=== Media Consumption ===
=== Basic Display Mode ===
* Virtual cinema experience
Universal function:
* Gaming display
* Mirror display
* Video streaming
* No app required
* Big-screen portable
* Any DP Alt device
* Simple operation


== Optional Accessories ==
== Use Cases ==


* '''Xreal Beam''' ($119) - Enhanced functionality
=== Personal Cinema ===
* Prescription lens inserts
Entertainment viewing:
* Adapters for HDMI devices
* Movie streaming
* TV shows
* Private viewing
* Travel entertainment


== Technical Specifications ==
=== Gaming ===
Portable gaming:
* Steam Deck display
* Nintendo Switch display
* Console gaming
* PC gaming
 
=== Productivity ===
Work applications:
* Multi-monitor simulation
* Document viewing
* Presentations
* Private working
 
=== Travel ===
Portable entertainment:
* Airplane viewing
* Hotel room theater
* Compact travel
* Lightweight carry
 
== Comparison with Competitors ==
 
{| 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
|}
 
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* Ultra-lightweight (79g)
* High-quality Micro-OLED displays
* 49 PPD sharp visuals
* Simple USB-C connectivity
* Affordable ($379)
* Wide device compatibility
* Sunglasses form factor
 
=== 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
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 1920x1080 Sony Micro-OLED
| Display || Dual Micro-OLED, 1920 × 1080 per eye
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 60 Hz
| PPD || 49 pixels per degree
|-
|-
| FOV || 46°
| FOV || 46°
|-
|-
| Virtual Screen || 130" equivalent
| Refresh Rate || 60Hz (up to 90Hz)
|-
|-
| Tracking || 3DoF
| Tracking || 3DoF (IMU)
|-
|-
| Audio || In-stem speakers
| Connection || USB-C (DP Alt Mode)
|-
|-
| Connection || USB-C
| Audio || Directional speakers, dual mics
|-
|-
| Weight || 79g
| Weight || 79g
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| Price || $379
| Price || $379
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 79g ultra-lightweight
* Sony Micro-OLED quality
* 130" virtual screen
* $379 accessible price
* Universal USB-C compatibility
* Steam Deck excellent pairing
* Mac multi-display useful
* Portable design
* Light shield included
* Media consumption excellent
'''Criticism:'''
* 46° FOV narrow
* 60Hz vs 120Hz competitors
* 3DoF only (no 6DoF)
* No positional tracking
* No onboard cameras
* Not true AR (display glasses)
* Limited AR functionality
* Beam accessory extra cost
* Phone dependent features
* Screen-door effect visible<ref name="techadvisor">{{cite web |url=https://www.techadvisor.com/article/723317/nreal-air-review.html |title=Nreal Air Review |publisher=Tech Advisor |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Xreal Air 2]]
* [[Nreal]] / [[XREAL]]
* [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[Rokid Max]]
* [[XREAL Air 2]]
* [[AR Glasses]]
* [[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:Nreal]]
[[Category:Xreal]]
[[Category:XREAL]]
[[Category:2022 in technology]]
[[Category:Micro-OLED]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
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