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Vuzix Blade 2: Difference between revisions

Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
 
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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Vuzix Blade 2
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = Enterprise AR
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Platform = [[Android]] 11
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Announced = 2022
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Release = September 2022
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Announcement Date = January 2022 (CES)
|Release Date = September 2022
|Price = $1,299.99
|Price = $1,299.99
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/
|OS = Android 11
|Versions = Vuzix Blade 2
|CPU = Qualcomm
|Requires = None (standalone)
|GPU =
|Predecessor = [[Vuzix Blade]]
|Storage = 40 GB
|Successor = None announced
|RAM =
|Operating System = [[Android]] 11
|Display = Waveguide (monocular)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]
|Resolution = 480 x 480 (right eye)
|CPU = Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1
|Refresh =
|GPU = Adreno integrated
|Brightness = 2000 nits (peak)
|HPU =
|FOV = 20° (diagonal)
|Storage = 40GB
|PPD =
|Memory = 4GB RAM
|Lenses = See-through waveguide
|SD Card Slot = No
|IPD =
|Display = Full-color waveguide (Cobra II engine)
|Eye Tracking =
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Hand Tracking =
|Peak Brightness = 2000 nits
|Tracking = Head tracking
|Resolution = 480 × 480
|Spatial Mapping =
|Pixel Density = 24 PPD
|Speakers = Integrated stereo
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Microphone = Noise-canceling
|Persistence = N/A
|Audio Jack = Yes
|Field of View = 20°
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth
|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
|Ports = USB-C
|Battery = Integrated
|Wired Video = No
|Weight = ~90g
|Wireless Video = Yes (streaming)
|Materials = ANSI Z87.1 certified
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac, 5GHz)
|Colors = Black
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.0 (up to 243m range)
|Sensors = 8MP autofocus camera, head tracking
|Power = Internal battery
|Input = Touchpad, voice commands
|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-focused [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[Vuzix]]. Released in September 2022 at $1,299.99, the Blade 2 is the third generation in the Blade series, featuring a stylish sunglasses-like design with see-through waveguide optics delivering 2000 nits peak brightness for indoor and outdoor use. Running Android 11 with 40 GB storage, the glasses include an 8-megapixel autofocus camera (720p@60fps / 1080p@30fps), stereo speakers, noise-canceling microphones, and support for enterprise platforms including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and TeamViewer. The device carries ANSI Z87.1 safety certification and UV protection.<ref name="vuzix">{{cite web|url=https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-blade-2-smart-glasses|title=Vuzix Blade 2 Smart Glasses|publisher=Vuzix}}</ref>
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 ==


=== Third Generation Blade ===
=== Vuzix Heritage ===
The Blade 2 represents the third iteration of Vuzix's Blade smart glasses line.
Company background:
* Founded 1997
* Smart glasses pioneer
* Enterprise focus
* Display technology expertise


=== September 2022 Release ===
=== Original Blade ===
Became generally available in the US, Canada, UK, EU, and Japan.
First generation:
* 2019 release
* Consumer-enterprise hybrid
* DLP-based display
* Market validation


=== Enterprise Focus ===
=== CES 2022 Announcement ===
Designed specifically for the deskless workforce and enterprise applications.
Blade 2 reveal:
* Improved specifications
* Cobra II display
* Android 11
* Enterprise focus


== Design and Hardware ==
=== September 2022 Launch ===
Commercial release:
* $1,299.99 price
* Global availability
* Enterprise channel
* Partner ecosystem


=== Display System ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Type:''' See-through waveguide (monocular - right eye)
* '''Resolution:''' 480 x 480 pixels
* '''Brightness:''' 2000 nits peak
* '''Color:''' 24-bit full color
* '''Equivalent:''' 6-inch mobile device at arm's length (17 inches)


=== Field of View ===
=== Sunglasses Form Factor ===
20 degrees diagonal.
Social acceptability:
* Normal glasses appearance
* Workplace appropriate
* Public wearable
* Professional design


=== Form Factor ===
=== Assisted Reality ===
* '''Design:''' Stylish sunglasses form factor
Information overlay:
* '''Weight:''' Approximately 90 grams
* Glanceable data
* '''Safety:''' ANSI Z87.1 certified
* Hands-free access
* '''UV Protection:''' Full UV blocking lenses
* Document display
* Communication


=== Vision Correction ===
=== Enterprise-First ===
Prescription lens inserts available.
Professional focus:
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* Industrial environments
* Enterprise software partners
* Professional support


== Camera ==
=== Standalone Operation ===
Self-contained:
* Android 11 OS
* No phone required
* Full processing
* Complete device


=== Specifications ===
== Display Technology ==
* '''Sensor:''' 8 megapixels
* '''Autofocus:''' Yes
* '''Video:''' 720p @ 60fps or 1080p @ 30fps


=== Use Cases ===
=== Cobra II Display Engine ===
* Remote expert support
Next-generation optics:
* Documentation
* '''Resolution''': 480 × 480
* "See What I See" video calling
* '''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
 
=== Performance ===
Capable processing:
* Android 11 apps
* Video streaming
* AR applications
* Voice processing
 
=== Storage Improvement ===
Major upgrade:
* 40GB (vs 8GB original)
* 5× increase
* Local content
* Offline capability
 
== Camera System ==
 
=== 8MP Autofocus ===
Improved capture:
* '''Resolution''': 8 megapixels
* '''Autofocus''': Yes
* '''Video''': 720p@60fps, 1080p@30fps
* Better than original
 
=== Camera Applications ===
Use cases:
* Remote expert assistance
* Documentation capture
* Barcode scanning
* Visual inspection
 
=== Video Streaming ===
Real-time sharing:
* "See what I see"
* Expert guidance
* Live collaboration
* Remote support
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== Wi-Fi 5 (5GHz) ===
Fast wireless:
* 802.11ac
* 5GHz band
* Enterprise networks
* Streaming capable
 
=== Bluetooth 5.0 ===
Extended range:
* Up to 243 meters (800 feet)
* Stable connection
* Audio devices
* Accessories
 
=== USB-C ===
Modern connectivity:
* Charging
* Data transfer
* Accessory support
* Standard port
 
== Audio System ==
 
=== Integrated Speaker ===
Built-in audio:
* Temple speaker
* Notification sounds
* Voice feedback
* Communication
 
=== Dual Noise-Canceling Microphones ===
Voice capture:
* Clear voice pickup
* Noise reduction
* Voice commands
* Communication calls
 
=== Voice Control ===
Hands-free operation:
* Voice commands
* Navigation
* Application control
* Dictation
 
== Safety Certification ==
 
=== ANSI Z87.1 ===
Industrial standard:
* Impact resistant
* Eye protection
* 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 ==
== Software Platform ==


=== Android 11 ===
=== Android 11 ===
* Modern Android OS
Modern OS:
* Enterprise MDM support
* Full Android
* Wide app compatibility
* App ecosystem
* Regular updates
* Enterprise features
 
=== Vuzix Software ===
First-party tools:
* Vuzix App Store
* Companion app
* Remote management
* Analytics


=== Enterprise Apps ===
=== Enterprise Partners ===
Software ecosystem:
* Microsoft Teams
* Microsoft Teams
* Zoom
* Zoom
* TeamViewer
* TeamViewer
* Custom enterprise applications
* Custom enterprise apps


=== Storage ===
== Enterprise Applications ==
40 GB integrated storage.


== Audio ==
=== Remote Expert ===
Video collaboration:
* Live video streaming
* Expert guidance
* Real-time support
* Problem resolution


=== Speakers ===
=== Healthcare ===
Integrated stereo speakers in temple arms.
Medical use:
* Patient information
* Procedure guidance
* Documentation
* Telehealth


=== Microphones ===
=== Manufacturing ===
Noise-canceling dual microphones for clear communication.
Production support:
* Assembly guidance
* Quality inspection
* Work instructions
* Hands-free reference


== Controls ==
=== Field Service ===
Technician support:
* Repair guidance
* Documentation access
* Remote assistance
* Procedure display


=== Input Methods ===
=== Logistics ===
* '''Touchpad:''' Side-mounted for navigation
Warehouse operations:
* '''Voice Control:''' Full voice command support
* Order picking
* '''Head Tracking:''' Motion-based interaction
* Inventory management
* Barcode scanning
* Workflow guidance


== Connectivity ==
== Comparison with Original Blade ==


=== Wireless ===
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Wi-Fi:''' 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks
|-
* '''Bluetooth:''' For peripherals and audio
! Feature !! Vuzix Blade 2 !! Vuzix Blade
|-
| Price || $1,299 || $799 (at launch)
|-
| Storage || 40GB || 8GB
|-
| Display Engine || Cobra II || DLP
|-
| Brightness || 2000 nits || 1000 nits
|-
| Camera || 8MP (1080p) || 8MP (720p)
|-
| Android || Android 11 || Android 5.1
|-
| Bluetooth Range || 243m || ~10m
|}


=== Wired ===
== Comparison with Competitors ==
USB-C for charging and data.


== Enterprise Features ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Vuzix Blade 2 !! RealWear HMT-1 !! Google Glass EE2
|-
| Price || $1,299 || ~$2,500 || $999
|-
| Form Factor || Sunglasses || Rugged headset || Glasses
|-
| Resolution || 480×480 || 854×480 || 640×360
|-
| FOV || 20° || 20° || ~15°
|-
| Camera || 8MP || 16MP || 8MP
|-
| Weight || ~100g || 380g || 46g
|-
| Safety Rating || ANSI Z87.1 || IP66/MIL-STD || N/A
|}


=== MDM Integration ===
== Strengths and Limitations ==
Compatible with major Mobile Device Management platforms.


=== Security ===
=== Strengths ===
Enhanced security features for enterprise deployment.
* Sunglasses form factor
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* 2000 nits brightness
* 40GB storage (5× original)
* Android 11 OS
* Long Bluetooth range (243m)
* 8MP autofocus camera


=== Certifications ===
=== Limitations ===
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certification
* Limited FOV (20°)
* UV protection
* Lower resolution (480×480)
* Monocular only
* No spatial tracking
* Higher price than original
* Not true AR (assisted reality)
* Battery life (2-3 hours)


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


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Waveguide (monocular)
| Display || Waveguide, 480 × 480
|-
| Resolution || 480 x 480
|-
|-
| Brightness || 2000 nits peak
| Brightness || 2000 nits peak
|-
|-
| FOV || 20° diagonal
| FOV || 20°
|-
|-
| OS || Android 11
| Processor || Snapdragon XR1
|-
|-
| Storage || 40 GB
| Memory || 4GB RAM, 40GB storage
|-
|-
| Camera || 8MP autofocus
| Camera || 8MP autofocus
|-
|-
| Video || 720p@60fps / 1080p@30fps
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
|-
| Battery || 2-3 hours
|-
|-
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
|-
| Weight || ~90g
|-
|-
| Price || $1,299.99
| Price || $1,299.99
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* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Smart glasses]]
* [[Assisted Reality]]


== References ==
== References ==
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[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Snapdragon XR1]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]