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Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Vuzix Blade
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Subtype = AR Smart Glasses
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Platform = [[Vuzix App Store]], Android
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Announced = CES 2018
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Release = 2019
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Price = $999.99 (Developer Kit)
|Announcement Date = January 2018 (CES)
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com
|Release Date = January 2019
|OS = Android
|Price = $999 (consumer), ~$1,000 (enterprise)
|CPU = ARM Cortex-A53 (quad-core)
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/
|GPU =
|Versions = Vuzix Blade, Vuzix Blade 2, Vuzix Blade 2 Safety
|Storage = Micro SD expandable
|Requires = Optional smartphone companion
|RAM =
|Predecessor = [[Vuzix M300]]
|Display = Waveguide
|Successor = [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
|Resolution =
|Operating System = [[Android]] (custom)
|Refresh =
|Chipset = Quad Core ARM A53
|Brightness =
|CPU = Quad Core ARM Cortex-A53
|FOV = 20° diagonal
|GPU = Integrated
|Virtual Screen = 6" at arm's length (17")
|HPU =
|PPD =
|Storage = 8GB flash
|Lenses = UV protection (prescription compatible)
|Memory = 1GB RAM
|IPD =
|SD Card Slot = No
|Eye Tracking =
|Display = Single waveguide display (right eye)
|Hand Tracking =
|Subpixel Layout = Full color
|Tracking =
|Peak Brightness = 700-4000+ nits
|Spatial Mapping =
|Resolution = 480 × 480
|Speakers =
|Pixel Density = N/A
|Microphone = Noise-canceling
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Audio Jack =
|Persistence = N/A
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
|Field of View = 19° (28° adjustable window)
|Ports = Micro SD slot
|Horizontal FoV = ~19°
|Battery = Built-in
|Vertical FoV = ~19°
|Weight = 96g (3.4 oz)
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Materials =
|Peak Pixel Density = N/A
|Colors =
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Sensors = Head motion tracker
|Optics = Vuzix waveguide
|Input = Touchpad, voice (Alexa), head motion
|Ocularity = Monocular (right eye)
|IPD Range = N/A (monocular)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (prescription lens options)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (AR glasses)
|Tracking = No (notification/display only)
|Tracking Frequency = N/A
|Base Stations = None
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Limited (head motion detection)
|Positional Tracking = No
|Update Rate = N/A
|Tracking Volume = N/A
|Play Space = N/A
|Latency = N/A
|Audio = Built-in stereo speakers
|Microphone = Yes
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera = 8MP autofocus
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0
|Ports = Micro-USB
|Wired Video = No
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.0
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = ~470mAh
|Battery Life = ~2-3 hours
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Sunglasses form factor
|Weight = 90g
|Material = Plastic frame
|Headstrap = N/A (glasses temples)
|Haptics = No
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Head motion, ambient light, proximity
|Input = Touchpad, voice control, head gestures
|Compliance = FCC, CE, ANSI Z87.1 (Safety version)
}}
}}


The '''Vuzix Blade''' is a pair of [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Vuzix]]. Released in 2019, the Blade features a stylish sunglass-like form factor with a waveguide display providing a 20-degree diagonal field of view. The glasses include an 8MP camera, Amazon Alexa integration, and a touchpad interface, targeting both enterprise professionals and consumers. Vuzix's established presence in the enterprise AR market positioned the Blade as a versatile device for remote assistance, notifications, and hands-free information access.<ref name="tomshardware">{{cite web|url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/vuzix-blade-ar-smart-glasses-consumer,5667.html|title=Vuzix Blade Smart Glasses Review: AR Fun Over Fashion|publisher=Tom's Hardware}}</ref>
The '''Vuzix Blade''' is an enterprise-focused [[augmented reality]] smart glasses device developed by [[Vuzix]], announced at CES in January 2018 and released in January 2019 at a price of approximately $999. The Blade was one of the first self-contained AR smart glasses featuring Vuzix's proprietary waveguide optics, delivering a full-color see-through display in a form factor approaching regular sunglasses. Unlike full AR headsets that attempt world-anchored holographic content, the Blade focused on practical heads-up information display—notifications, navigation, camera viewfinder, and simple AR overlays—making it suitable for enterprise applications like remote assistance, inventory management, and hands-free information access. Weighing just 90 grams with an 8-megapixel camera, voice control, and all-day wearability, the Blade represented a step toward practical, everyday AR glasses.


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


=== CES 2018 Debut ===
=== Vuzix Background ===
Vuzix unveiled the Blade at CES 2018, showcasing a more consumer-friendly design compared to their previous enterprise-focused devices.
Company history:
* Founded 1997
* Pioneered head-mounted displays
* Enterprise focus
* Waveguide technology development


=== Enterprise Heritage ===
=== Smart Glasses Evolution ===
Vuzix built a reputation in the enterprise AR market before launching the Blade, giving them credibility for business applications.
Product progression:
* M100/M300 series (monocular enterprise)
* Blade development (consumer-form factor)
* Waveguide optics advancement
* Sunglasses form target


=== Consumer and Enterprise Focus ===
=== CES 2018 Announcement ===
The Blade was designed to serve both professional use cases and consumer applications.
Initial reveal:
* Consumer AR glasses concept
* Waveguide display demonstrated
* Amazon Alexa integration
* 2018 availability promised


== Design and Hardware ==
=== January 2019 Release ===
Consumer/prosumer launch:
* $999 price point
* Upgraded specifications
* Enterprise and consumer variants
* Global availability


=== Sunglass Form Factor ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Weight:''' 96 grams (3.4 oz)
* '''Style:''' Resembles premium sunglasses
* '''Lenses:''' Standard UV protection
* '''Prescription:''' Compatible with prescription inserts


=== Display System ===
=== Sunglasses Form Factor ===
* '''Technology:''' Waveguide optics
Wearable design goal:
* '''Field of View:''' 20 degrees diagonal
* Approaching regular glasses size
* '''Virtual Screen:''' Equivalent to a 6-inch mobile device at arm's length (17 inches)
* All-day wearability target
* Socially acceptable
* Professional appearance


=== Processor ===
=== Heads-Up Display Focus ===
ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU optimized for low power consumption.
Practical information:
* Notifications display
* Navigation arrows
* Status information
* Camera viewfinder


=== Camera ===
=== Enterprise + Consumer ===
* '''Resolution:''' 8 megapixels
Dual market approach:
* '''Video:''' 720p/1080p recording
* Enterprise work assistance
* '''Indicator:''' Red LED indicates when recording
* Consumer early adopter
* Developer platform
* Use case flexibility


== Input Methods ==
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Vuzix Waveguide ===
Proprietary display system:
* '''Resolution''': 480 × 480
* '''Format''': Full color
* '''Type''': Waveguide optics
* '''Position''': Right eye only
 
=== Field of View ===
Modest display area:
* 19° diagonal base
* 28° adjustable window
* Small but visible
* Appropriate for HUD use
 
=== Brightness ===
Excellent outdoor visibility:
* 700 nits (minimum setting)
* 4000+ nits (maximum)
* Sunlight readable
* Auto-adjusting
 
=== Monocular Design ===
Single-eye display:
* Right eye only
* Reduces complexity
* Power efficient
* Adequate for information display
 
== Optical System ==
 
=== Waveguide Optics ===
Light guide technology:
* Projects image to eye
* See-through capability
* Full UV protection
* Sunglasses compatible
 
=== Safety Certification ===
Industrial compliance:
* ANSI Z87.1 certified (Safety version)
* Eye protection
* Industrial environments
* Professional use
 
=== Prescription Options ===
Vision correction:
* Prescription lens inserts available
* Glasses-free AR possible
* Enterprise deployment consideration
 
== Processing ==
 
=== ARM-Based SoC ===
Mobile processor:
* '''CPU''': Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53
* '''RAM''': 1GB
* '''Storage''': 8GB flash
* Adequate for HUD applications
 
=== Android OS ===
Software platform:
* Android-based system
* App compatibility
* Developer-friendly
* Regular updates


=== Touchpad ===
=== Performance ===
Side-mounted touchpad for gesture-based navigation.
Sufficient for use case:
* Notification display smooth
* Camera functional
* Voice processing capable
* Basic AR experiences


=== Voice Control ===
== Camera ==
Amazon Alexa integration for voice commands.


=== Head Motion ===
=== 8MP Autofocus ===
Head motion tracker for gesture-based control.
Integrated camera:
* 8 megapixel sensor
* Autofocus capability
* Photo and video capture
* First-person view


=== Haptic Feedback ===
=== Use Cases ===
Vibration alerts for notifications.
Camera applications:
* Document capture
* Remote assistance video
* Photo documentation
* QR/barcode scanning


== Audio ==
== Audio ==
=== Built-In Speakers ===
Integrated audio:
* Stereo speakers
* Clear audio playback
* Notification sounds
* Call audio


=== Microphone ===
=== Microphone ===
Built-in noise-canceling microphone for voice control and calls.
Voice input:
* Voice commands
* Phone calls
* Voice recording
* Assistant interaction
 
=== Voice Control ===
Hands-free operation:
* Amazon Alexa integration
* Vuzix voice commands
* Custom wake words
* Natural interaction
 
== Input Methods ==
 
=== Temple Touchpad ===
Touch control:
* Swipe gestures
* Tap selections
* Scroll navigation
* Intuitive interface
 
=== Voice Commands ===
Spoken interaction:
* Menu navigation
* App control
* Information queries
* Hands-free operation
 
=== Head Gestures ===
Motion input:
* Nod for confirmation
* Head shake for dismiss
* Simple interactions
* Accessible input


== Connectivity ==
== Connectivity ==


* Wi-Fi
=== Wireless ===
* Bluetooth
Communication options:
* Compatible with iOS and Android devices
* Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
* Bluetooth 5.0
* Smartphone pairing
* Cloud connectivity
 
=== Standalone Operation ===
Independent function:
* No phone required
* Self-contained
* Optional phone companion
* Full functionality alone
 
== Battery ==
 
=== Internal Battery ===
All-day challenge:
* ~470mAh capacity
* 2-3 hours active use
* 8+ hours standby
* Micro-USB charging
 
=== Power Management ===
Efficiency features:
* Display auto-dim
* Sleep mode
* Power-conscious design
* Quick charge support
 
== Physical Design ==
 
=== Weight ===
Lightweight for AR:
* 90 grams (3.4 oz)
* Comparable to heavy sunglasses
* All-day wearable target
* Comfortable for hours
 
=== Form Factor ===
Sunglasses style:
* Similar to fashion eyewear
* Slightly bulkier temples
* Professional appearance
* Multiple lens options
 
=== Lens Options ===
Customization:
* Clear lenses
* Tinted lenses
* Polarized options
* Prescription available
 
== Software Platform ==
 
=== Vuzix App Store ===
Content distribution:
* Enterprise apps
* Productivity tools
* AR experiences
* Developer submissions
 
=== Amazon Alexa ===
Voice assistant:
* Built-in integration
* Information queries
* Smart home control
* Hands-free assistant
 
=== Enterprise SDK ===
Development tools:
* Android development
* Vuzix SDK
* Enterprise integration
* Custom applications
 
== Enterprise Applications ==
 
=== Remote Assistance ===
Expert support:
* Live video streaming
* Screen annotation
* Real-time guidance
* Field service
 
=== Inventory/Logistics ===
Warehouse operations:
* Pick-by-vision
* Barcode scanning
* Hands-free picking
* Efficiency gains
 
=== Manufacturing ===
Production support:
* Work instructions
* Quality control
* Assembly guidance
* Training
 
=== Healthcare ===
Medical applications:
* Patient information
* Procedure guidance
* Telemedicine
* Documentation
 
== Blade 2 Evolution ==


== Storage ==
=== Improvements ===
Second generation:
* Improved display
* Better camera
* Enhanced audio
* Longer battery


Micro SD card slot for expandable storage.
=== Safety Variant ===
Industrial version:
* Impact resistant
* ANSI Z87.1 certified
* Rugged construction
* Enterprise focused


== Use Cases ==
== Comparison with Competitors ==


=== Enterprise ===
{| class="wikitable"
* Remote assistance and expert guidance
|-
* Hands-free documentation
! Feature !! Vuzix Blade !! Google Glass EE2 !! Focals by North
* Work instructions and checklists
|-
* Field service support
| Price || $999 || $999 || $599 (discontinued)
|-
| Display || 480×480 waveguide || 640×360 prism || Holographic retinal
|-
| FOV || 19° || ~15° || ~15°
|-
| Camera || 8MP || 8MP || None
|-
| Eye || Right (monocular) || Right (monocular) || Right (monocular)
|-
| Weight || 90g || 46g || ~70g
|}


=== Consumer ===
== Strengths and Limitations ==
* Notifications and alerts
* Navigation assistance
* Camera and media capture
* Voice assistant access


== Product Evolution ==
=== Strengths ===
* Sunglasses form factor
* Waveguide display
* Standalone operation
* Enterprise applications
* Voice control
* All-day wearable


Vuzix has continued developing the Blade series:
=== Limitations ===
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]] - Updated version with improved specifications
* Small FOV (19°)
* [[Vuzix Shield]] - Enterprise safety glasses
* Low resolution (480×480)
* Monocular only
* Limited AR capability
* Battery life
* Premium price


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


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 130: Line 440:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Waveguide
| Display || Waveguide, 480 × 480 (right eye)
|-
|-
| Field of View || 20° diagonal
| FOV || 19° (28° adjustable)
|-
|-
| Virtual Screen || 6" at arm's length
| Brightness || 700-4000+ nits
|-
|-
| Camera || 8MP HD (720p/1080p video)
| Processor || Quad-core ARM A53
|-
|-
| Processor || ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core
| Memory || 1GB RAM, 8GB storage
|-
|-
| OS || Android
| Camera || 8MP autofocus
|-
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
| Audio || Stereo speakers, microphone
|-
|-
| Voice Assistant || Amazon Alexa
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
|-
|-
| Weight || 96g (3.4 oz)
| Battery || 2-3 hours active
|-
|-
| Storage || Micro SD expandable
| Weight || 90g
|-
|-
| Price || $999.99
| Price || $999
|}
|}


Line 156: Line 466:
* [[Vuzix]]
* [[Vuzix]]
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[AR Glasses]]
* [[AR smart glasses]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Waveguide Display]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 165: Line 476:
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Consumer AR]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:2010s AR]]
[[Category:2010s AR]]
[[Category:Waveguide Display]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Vuzix_Blade"