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Vuzix Shield: Difference between revisions

Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =  
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Vuzix OS]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Announcement Date = January 2022 (CES 2022)
|Release Date = April 2024
|Release Date = April 2024
|Price = $2,499.99 USD
|Price = Enterprise pricing
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-shield-smart-glasses
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-shield-smart-glasses
|OS = Android-based
|Display = MicroLED waveguide (binocular, monochrome green)
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]
|Camera = 13 MP autofocus (4K @ 30fps)
|CPU = 8-core
|Audio = Integrated stereo speakers
|Display = Binocular Micro-LED waveguide
|Microphones = Multiple noise-canceling
|Resolution = High definition
|Processor = 8-core CPU
|Brightness = Very high (outdoor capable)
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 5.0/2.4GHz, Bluetooth
|Contrast = 1,000,000:1
|Certifications = ANSI Z87.1 (safety)
|Color Accuracy = 92% RGB
|Prescription = Ready (inserts available)
|Field of View = 30° diagonal
|Battery = Dual temple batteries
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Optics = Ultra-slim waveguide
|Camera = 13 MP stereo cameras (autofocus, 4K 30fps video)
|Audio = Integrated acoustic chambers, noise cancellation
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
|Battery = Built-in (in temples)
|Weight = Enterprise-grade
|Safety Certification = ANSI Z87.1
|Color = Black
}}
}}


The '''Vuzix Shield''' is an enterprise-grade [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Vuzix]], announced at [[CES]] 2022 and released in April 2024. It is the world's first binocular Micro-LED-based smart glasses designed specifically for enterprise applications. The Shield features stereo 13 MP cameras, an 8-core processor, ANSI Z87.1 safety certification, and integrated noise-canceling audio, making it suitable for industrial, medical, and field service applications.
The '''Vuzix Shield''' is an enterprise [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Vuzix]], released in April 2024. Designed as a revolutionary leap for enterprise AR, the Vuzix Shield features ultra-slim binocular waveguides powered by micro-LED projectors, a 13 MP autofocus camera with 4K video recording, ANSI Z87.1 safety certification, integrated stereo speakers with noise-canceling microphones, and prescription-ready frames. With an 8-core CPU, dual temple batteries, and capacitive touch controls, the Shield targets industrial, medical, field service, and logistics applications requiring hands-free information access and real-time video streaming.


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


Vuzix showcased the Shield at CES 2022 as a next-generation enterprise smart glasses solution. Building on Vuzix's experience with the [[Vuzix M400]] and [[Vuzix Blade]] series, the Shield was designed from the ground up for demanding professional environments where safety certification, durability, and advanced features are essential.<ref name="prnewswire">{{cite web |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vuzix-showcases-its-new-shield--at-ces-2022-as-the-worlds-first-microled-based-binocular-smart-glasses-for-enterprise-301454750.html |title=Vuzix Showcases its New Shield at CES 2022 as the World's First MicroLED-based Binocular Smart Glasses for Enterprise |publisher=PR Newswire |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
Vuzix released the Shield in April 2024 as their next-generation enterprise smart glasses, building on the success of the M4000 and Blade series. The Shield represents a new form factor combining safety glasses with smart AR functionality, featuring Vuzix's advanced waveguide optics and micro-LED display technology. The glasses target enterprise customers requiring ANSI-certified eye protection combined with AR capabilities.<ref name="vuzix">{{cite web |url=https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-shield-smart-glasses |title=Vuzix Shield Smart Glasses |publisher=Vuzix |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


The glasses officially released in April 2024 after an extended development period to ensure enterprise-grade quality and reliability.
== Design and Hardware ==


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Display ===
 
Binocular micro-LED waveguide:
 
* '''Ultra-slim binocular waveguides'''
* '''Micro-LED projectors'''
* '''1 micron pixel size'''
* '''Monochrome green''' display
* See-through optics
* Non-occluded view
* High-density pixel array
* Crisp video output
* Contextual information overlay


=== Display Technology ===
=== Camera ===


The Vuzix Shield uses ultra-slim binocular waveguides powered by Micro-LED projectors:
Professional imaging:


* 1 micron Micro-LED pixels—one of the highest density pixel arrays available
* '''13 MP autofocus''' camera
* 92% RGB color accuracy
* '''4K video @ 30fps'''
* 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio
* High-quality photo capture
* 30° diagonal field of view (widest in Vuzix's smart glasses lineup)
* See-what-I-see streaming
* Crisp video with contextual information overlay<ref name="vuzix">{{cite web |url=https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-shield-smart-glasses |title=Vuzix Shield | See-Through, Stylish Smart Glasses |publisher=Vuzix |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
* HD video streaming
* Documentation capability


=== Processing ===
=== Processing ===


* Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1 platform with enhanced AR capabilities
* '''8-core CPU'''
* 8-core CPU for complex application processing
* Powerful onboard processing
* Fully wireless operation with self-contained computing
* Real-time AR rendering
* Voice/UI integration support


=== Camera System ===
=== Audio ===


The Shield features advanced stereo cameras:
Integrated acoustic system:


* Dual 13 MP cameras with autofocus
* '''Stereo speakers'''
* Up to 4K 30fps video recording
* '''Acoustic chambers''' in frames
* Integrated privacy LED (indicates when recording)
* '''Multiple noise-canceling microphones'''
* Advanced optical reader with barcode scanner
* Crystal clear audio
* See-what-I-see video streaming capability<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/augmented-reality/vuzix-shield-review-secure-enterprise-quality-smart-glasses/ |title=Vuzix Shield Review: Secure Enterprise-Quality Smart Glasses |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
* Privacy positioning (over ears)
* Ambient sound awareness
* Flawless call quality
* Voice command support


=== Audio ===
=== Controls ===
 
Multiple input methods:
 
* '''Voice control'''
* '''Capacitive touchpad'''
* Touch-sensitive arm
* Left/right/up/down swipes
* One/two-finger taps
* '''Glove compatible'''
* Display activate/hide
 
=== Safety ===
 
Enterprise-grade protection:


* Integrated acoustic chambers
* '''ANSI Z87.1 certified'''
* Active noise cancellation
* '''Full UV protection'''
* Clear, immersive audio experience
* Safety-rated lenses
* Suitable for noisy industrial environments
* Vision protection
* Industrial compliance


=== Safety Certification ===
=== Prescription ===


The Vuzix Shield is designed as certified safety glasses:
* '''Prescription ready'''
* Optional prescription inserts ($149.99)
* No over-glasses required
* Custom vision correction


* '''ANSI Z87.1''' certification for:
=== Battery ===
  * Hard impact protection
  * Radiation protection
  * Splash protection
  * Dust protection
  * Small particle protection
* Compatible with prescription lens inserts


=== Controls ===
* '''Dual temple batteries'''
* Self-contained power
* Hours of operation
* Balanced weight distribution


* Capacitive touchpad on temple (side of glasses)
=== Connectivity ===
* Supports swipe gestures (left/right/up/down)
* One-finger and two-finger tap recognition
* Glove-compatible operation
* Voice command integration


== Enterprise Features ==
* '''Wi-Fi 5.0 and 2.4GHz'''
* '''Bluetooth'''
* Smartphone companion pairing
* Wireless data transfer
* Real-time streaming


=== Remote Assistance ===
== Enterprise Applications ==


The Shield excels at remote assistance applications:
=== Industrial ===
* See-what-I-see video streaming
* Facilities walkthroughs
* Facilities walkthroughs
* Insurance audits
* Maintenance inspections
* Manufacturing guidance
* Workplace safety checks
* Workplace safety checks
* Maintenance inspections
* Field service calls


=== Built-in Software ===
=== Field Service ===
* Service calls
* Remote expert support
* Equipment inspection
* Real-time troubleshooting


* INCOGNITO technology for enhanced privacy/security
=== Medical ===
* Enterprise device management support
* Surgical assistance
* Compatible with major enterprise platforms
* Medical documentation
* Telemedicine support
* Patient care


=== Wireless Operation ===
=== Logistics ===
* Warehouse operations
* Inventory management
* Pick-by-vision
* Shipping verification


* Self-contained batteries in each temple
=== Insurance ===
* Fully wireless without external battery packs
* Insurance audits
* Mobile access to content and remote assistance
* Damage documentation
 
* Claims processing
== Use Cases ==
* Site inspections


The Vuzix Shield is designed for:
== Technical Specifications ==


* '''Industrial:''' Manufacturing, warehousing, logistics
{| class="wikitable"
* '''Medical:''' Remote consultations, surgical assistance
|-
* '''Field Service:''' Equipment maintenance, installations
! Specification !! Details
* '''Insurance:''' Remote audits and assessments
|-
* '''Safety:''' Workplace inspections and compliance
| Display || MicroLED waveguide (binocular)
|-
| Color || Monochrome green
|-
| Camera || 13 MP (4K @ 30fps)
|-
| Processor || 8-core CPU
|-
| Audio || Stereo + noise-canceling mics
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
|-
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
|-
| Prescription || Ready ($149.99 inserts)
|-
| Battery || Dual temple
|-
| Controls || Voice + touch
|}


== Reception ==
== Reception ==


'''Praise:'''
'''Praise:'''
* High-quality, comfortable, and durable build
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* Phenomenal high-resolution waveguide display
* Micro-LED display advanced
* Comprehensive safety certifications (ANSI Z87.1)
* 13 MP 4K camera impressive
* Stereo 13 MP cameras with 4K video
* Binocular waveguides innovative
* Noise-canceling audio
* Prescription ready convenient
* Truly wireless with self-contained batteries
* Noise-canceling audio clear
* Wide 30° FOV for Vuzix lineup
* Glove-compatible touch
* Glove-compatible touchpad
* 8-core CPU powerful
* Safety glasses form factor
* Enterprise features comprehensive


'''Criticism:'''
'''Criticism:'''
* Bulkier and heavier than consumer glasses
* Monochrome green only
* High price ($2,499.99)
* Enterprise pricing
* Not designed for style/consumer use
* No color display
* Enterprise-focused feature set<ref name="vrexpert">{{cite web |url=https://vrx.vr-expert.com/vuzix-shield-release-date-key-features-and-cost-everything-you-need-to-know/ |title=Vuzix Shield: Release Date, Key Features and Cost |publisher=VR Expert |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
* Limited consumer appeal
* Prescription inserts extra
* Enterprise-only focus
* Limited field of view specs
* Niche market
* Competition from others<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/augmented-reality/vuzix-shield-review-secure-enterprise-quality-smart-glasses/ |title=Vuzix Shield Review |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Vuzix M4000]]
* [[Vuzix M4000]]
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
* [[Vuzix Blade]]
* [[Vuzix M400C]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 500]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
* [[ThinkReality A3]]
* [[Microsoft HoloLens 2]]


== References ==
== References ==
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[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]