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ThinkReality A3: Difference between revisions

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Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
 
Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
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|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Smart Glasses]], [[Enterprise AR]]
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[ThinkReality]]
|Platform = [[Android]] + ThinkReality software
|Developer = [[Lenovo]]
|Developer = [[Lenovo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lenovo]]
|Manufacturer = [[Lenovo]]
|Announcement Date = January 10, 2021 (CES)
|Release Date = 2021
|Release Date = Mid-2021
|Price = ~$1,500 USD
|Price = ~$1,499 USD
|Website = https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/thinkrealitya3/
|Website = https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/thinkrealitya3/
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]
|Display = 2× LCD
|Memory = 4 GB RAM
|Resolution = 1920×1080 per eye (stereoscopic)
|Storage = 64 GB
|Virtual Displays = Up to 5
|Display = Stereoscopic 1080p
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Resolution = 1920x1080 per eye
|Optics = Birdbath
|Field of View = 6DoF tracking
|Tracking = 6DoF (dual fisheye cameras)
|Ocularity = Binocular (stereo)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Camera = 8 MP RGB + 2x fish-eye tracking
|Hand Tracking = No
|Video = 1080p
|Camera = 8 MP RGB (1080p video)
|Audio = Integrated speakers, 3 microphones
|Safety Rating = ANSI Z87.1
|Connectivity = USB-C tethered
|Connectivity = USB-C (tethered to PC or Motorola phone)
|Certifications = ANSI Z87.1 (eye protection)
|Weight = 130g
|Weight = 130g
}}
}}


The '''Lenovo ThinkReality A3''' is an enterprise [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[Lenovo]], announced at CES on January 10, 2021 and released mid-2021. Described as "one of the most advanced and versatile enterprise smart glasses to come to market," the A3 features stereoscopic 1080p displays capable of presenting up to 5 virtual monitors, [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]] processing, 6DoF room-scale tracking, and ANSI Z87.1 safety-rated lenses. The glasses tether to compatible Windows PCs or select Motorola smartphones via USB-C, offering solutions for remote assistance, guided workflows, and 3D visualization in enterprise environments.
The '''ThinkReality A3''' is an enterprise [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Lenovo]], announced at CES in January 2021 and released mid-2021. Designed as the most versatile smart glasses for enterprise, the ThinkReality A3 features stereoscopic 1080p displays capable of projecting up to five virtual monitors, Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1 platform, 6DoF room-scale tracking via dual fish-eye cameras, and ANSI Z87.1 safety certification. At just 130g with tool-free modularity, the glasses tether to either a PC (PC Edition) or select Motorola smartphones (Industrial Edition) to enable hands-free AR-supported workflows for remote assistance, guided instructions, and virtual collaboration.


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


Lenovo announced the ThinkReality A3 at CES 2021 as part of their ThinkReality enterprise XR platform. The glasses built on Lenovo's earlier AR work and represented their most advanced smart glasses offering. Two editions were developed: a PC Edition for knowledge workers and an Industrial Edition paired with Motorola smartphones for field workers.<ref name="lenovonews">{{cite web |url=https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/thinkreality-a3-most-versatile-smart-glasses-ever-designed-for-the-enterprise/ |title=Lenovo Introduces the ThinkReality A3 — The Most Versatile Smart Glasses Ever Designed for the Enterprise |publisher=Lenovo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
Lenovo introduced the ThinkReality A3 at CES 2021 on January 10, 2021, positioning it as the most versatile smart glasses ever designed for the enterprise. The glasses became available in select markets worldwide starting mid-2021. Building on Lenovo's ThinkReality platform, the A3 offers two editions: PC Edition for knowledge workers needing virtual displays, and Industrial Edition for frontline workers requiring hands-free AR support. The device integrates with Lenovo's ThinkReality software platform for enterprise deployment and management.<ref name="lenovo">{{cite web |url=https://news.lenovo.com/pressroom/press-releases/thinkreality-a3-most-versatile-smart-glasses-ever-designed-for-the-enterprise/ |title=Lenovo Introduces the ThinkReality A3 |publisher=Lenovo |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== Design and Hardware ==
== Design and Hardware ==
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=== Display ===
=== Display ===


Stereoscopic display system:
Stereoscopic AR display system:


* Dual LCD panels
* '''1920x1080 per eye''' resolution
* 1920×1080 resolution per eye (stereoscopic)
* '''Stereoscopic display''' (binocular)
* '''Up to 5 virtual displays''' simultaneously
* Up to '''5 virtual displays'''
* Full HD visual quality
* Full color visualization
* Birdbath optics (similar to Nreal Light)
* See-through optics
* AR overlay capability
* Vibrant visuals for productivity


=== Optics ===
=== Tracking ===


* Birdbath-style optical system
6DoF spatial awareness:
* Spherical mirror/combiner design
 
* Cost-effective manufacturing
* '''6DoF tracking'''
* Less bright than waveguide alternatives
* '''Dual fish-eye cameras'''
* Adequate for indoor enterprise use
* Room-scale tracking
* Head position tracking
* Environmental awareness
* Spatial mapping


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


* [[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]] platform
* '''[[Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1]]''' platform
* High-quality AR performance
* High-quality AR performance
* Optimized for enterprise workloads
* Efficient power management
 
* USB-C tethered operation
=== Tracking ===
 
Room-scale spatial tracking:
 
* Dual fisheye cameras
* 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DoF)
* Room-scale tracking capability
* Secure head fitting


=== Camera ===
=== Camera ===


* 8 MP RGB camera
* '''8 MP RGB camera'''
* 1080p video recording
* 1080p video capture
* Designed for remote expert use cases
* Remote expert support
* Documentation and communication
* Photo documentation


=== Safety ===
=== Audio ===


Industrial-grade protection:
* '''Integrated speakers'''
* '''3 microphones'''
* Collaboration support
* Volume control buttons
* Voice communication


* '''ANSI Z87.1 certified''' safety lenses
=== Build ===
* Eye protection compliant
* Suitable for factory environments
* Impact-resistant design


=== Build ===
Lightweight modular design:


* 130g weight (0.3 lbs)
* '''130g weight'''
* Comfortable for extended wear
* '''ANSI Z87.1 certified''' (eye protection)
* Customizable fit
* Tool-free modularity
* Secure head mounting
* Multiple nosepieces included
* Ear horn extensions
* Adjustable fit
* Safety lens protection


== Editions ==
== Editions ==


=== PC Edition ===
=== PC Edition ===
 
* Tethers to laptop or workstation
Tethers to compatible Windows laptops:
* USB-C connection
 
* Multiple virtual monitors
* ThinkPad P1 (Gens 2, 3, 4)
* Knowledge worker focus
* ThinkPad P15 Gen 1
* Productivity applications
* ThinkPad P17 (Gens 1, 2)
* ThinkPad P53
* ThinkPad X1 Gen 4
* ThinkPad T15g (Gens 1, 2)
 
Use cases:
* Virtual multi-monitor workspace
* Work from anywhere
* Private expanded display


=== Industrial Edition ===
=== Industrial Edition ===
 
* Tethers to select Motorola smartphones
Tethers to select Motorola smartphones:
 
* Hands-free AR tasks
* Hands-free AR tasks
* Complex work environments
* ThinkReality platform integration
* ThinkReality platform integration
* Commercial application deployment
* Frontline worker focus
 
* Industrial applications
== Enterprise Features ==


=== ThinkReality Platform ===
== Enterprise Applications ==


* Build, deploy, manage MR applications
=== Remote Assistance ===
* Global-scale deployment
* Expert guidance
* Certified turnkey applications
* Video collaboration
* Remote assistance tools
* Real-time support
* Guided workflow support
* Hands-free communication
* 3D visualization


=== Use Cases ===
=== Guided Workflows ===
* Step-by-step instructions
* Visual overlays
* Training applications
* Quality assurance


* '''Manufacturing:''' Guided assembly, schematics
=== Virtual Displays ===
* '''Remote assistance:''' Expert collaboration
* Multiple virtual monitors
* '''Field service:''' Hands-free procedures
* Privacy computing
* '''Retail/Hospitality:''' Customer service
* Mobile productivity
* '''Laboratories:''' Research workflows
* Workspace anywhere
* '''Training:''' Interactive learning


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications ==
Line 143: Line 132:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Stereoscopic 1080p per eye
| Display || 1920x1080 per eye (stereo)
|-
|-
| Virtual Monitors || Up to 5
| Virtual Displays || Up to 5
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon XR1
| Processor || Snapdragon XR1
|-
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF (dual fisheye)
| Tracking || 6DoF (dual fish-eye)
|-
|-
| Camera || 8 MP RGB
| Camera || 8 MP RGB
|-
| Audio || Speakers + 3 mics
|-
| Certification || ANSI Z87.1
|-
|-
| Weight || 130g
| Weight || 130g
|-
|-
| Safety || ANSI Z87.1
| Connection || USB-C tethered
|-
|-
| Connection || USB-C (tethered)
| Price || ~$1,500
|}
|}


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'''Praise:'''
'''Praise:'''
* Lightweight at 130g
* 1080p per eye high resolution
* Stereoscopic 1080p displays
* Up to 5 virtual displays innovative
* Up to 5 virtual monitors
* 130g lightweight design
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certification
* ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
* 6DoF room-scale tracking
* 6DoF room-scale tracking
* Versatile PC and Industrial editions
* Tool-free modularity convenient
* Dual edition flexibility
* ThinkReality platform integration
* ThinkReality platform integration
* 8MP camera for remote expert use
* Enterprise-ready features
* Comfortable extended wear
* Professional design
* Enterprise-focused design


'''Criticism:'''
'''Criticism:'''
* Tethered operation required (no standalone)
* Requires tethered connection
* Limited compatible PC models
* Limited standalone capability
* Birdbath optics less bright than waveguides
* Enterprise pricing
* No eye or hand tracking
* Smartphone edition limited to Motorola
* Enterprise-only—no consumer availability
* Field of view not specified
* Motorola-only smartphone support<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/reviews/lenovo-thinkreality-a3-review-enticing-enterprise-ar/ |title=Lenovo ThinkReality A3 Review: Enticing Enterprise AR |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
* Not consumer-focused<ref name="xrtoday">{{cite web |url=https://www.xrtoday.com/reviews/lenovo-thinkreality-a3-review-enticing-enterprise-ar/ |title=Lenovo ThinkReality A3 Review |publisher=XR Today |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
 
<ref name="roadtovr">{{cite web |url=https://www.roadtovr.com/lenovo-thinkreality-a3-ar-smart-glasses/ |title=Lenovo Reveals ThinkReality A3 Lightweight AR Glasses for Enterprise |publisher=Road to VR |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Lenovo ThinkReality VRX]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[Microsoft HoloLens 2]]
* [[Microsoft HoloLens 2]]
* [[Vuzix M4000]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 500]]
* [[Magic Leap 2]]
* [[Magic Leap 2]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]


== 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:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Lenovo]]
[[Category:Lenovo]]
[[Category:2021 in technology]]
[[Category:2021 in technology]]

Revision as of 16:27, 7 January 2026

ThinkReality A3
Basic Info
VR/AR Augmented Reality
Type Smart Glasses
Subtype Enterprise AR
Platform Android + ThinkReality software
Developer Lenovo
Manufacturer Lenovo
Release Date 2021
Price ~$1,500 USD
Website https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/thinkrealitya3/
System
Chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1
Storage
Storage 64 GB
Memory 4 GB RAM
Display
Display Stereoscopic 1080p
Resolution 1920x1080 per eye
Image
Field of View 6DoF tracking
Optics
Ocularity Binocular (stereo)
Tracking
Audio
Audio Integrated speakers, 3 microphones
Camera 8 MP RGB + 2x fish-eye tracking
Connectivity
Connectivity USB-C tethered
Device
Weight 130g

Property "Platform" (as page type) with input value "Android]] + ThinkReality software" contains invalid characters or is incomplete and therefore can cause unexpected results during a query or annotation process.


The ThinkReality A3 is an enterprise augmented reality smart glasses developed by Lenovo, announced at CES in January 2021 and released mid-2021. Designed as the most versatile smart glasses for enterprise, the ThinkReality A3 features stereoscopic 1080p displays capable of projecting up to five virtual monitors, Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1 platform, 6DoF room-scale tracking via dual fish-eye cameras, and ANSI Z87.1 safety certification. At just 130g with tool-free modularity, the glasses tether to either a PC (PC Edition) or select Motorola smartphones (Industrial Edition) to enable hands-free AR-supported workflows for remote assistance, guided instructions, and virtual collaboration.

History and Development

Lenovo introduced the ThinkReality A3 at CES 2021 on January 10, 2021, positioning it as the most versatile smart glasses ever designed for the enterprise. The glasses became available in select markets worldwide starting mid-2021. Building on Lenovo's ThinkReality platform, the A3 offers two editions: PC Edition for knowledge workers needing virtual displays, and Industrial Edition for frontline workers requiring hands-free AR support. The device integrates with Lenovo's ThinkReality software platform for enterprise deployment and management.[1]

Design and Hardware

Display

Stereoscopic AR display system:

  • 1920x1080 per eye resolution
  • Stereoscopic display (binocular)
  • Up to 5 virtual displays
  • Full color visualization
  • See-through optics
  • AR overlay capability
  • Vibrant visuals for productivity

Tracking

6DoF spatial awareness:

  • 6DoF tracking
  • Dual fish-eye cameras
  • Room-scale tracking
  • Head position tracking
  • Environmental awareness
  • Spatial mapping

Processing

Camera

  • 8 MP RGB camera
  • 1080p video capture
  • Remote expert support
  • Photo documentation

Audio

  • Integrated speakers
  • 3 microphones
  • Collaboration support
  • Volume control buttons
  • Voice communication

Build

Lightweight modular design:

  • 130g weight
  • ANSI Z87.1 certified (eye protection)
  • Tool-free modularity
  • Multiple nosepieces included
  • Ear horn extensions
  • Adjustable fit
  • Safety lens protection

Editions

PC Edition

  • Tethers to laptop or workstation
  • USB-C connection
  • Multiple virtual monitors
  • Knowledge worker focus
  • Productivity applications

Industrial Edition

  • Tethers to select Motorola smartphones
  • Hands-free AR tasks
  • ThinkReality platform integration
  • Frontline worker focus
  • Industrial applications

Enterprise Applications

Remote Assistance

  • Expert guidance
  • Video collaboration
  • Real-time support
  • Hands-free communication

Guided Workflows

  • Step-by-step instructions
  • Visual overlays
  • Training applications
  • Quality assurance

Virtual Displays

  • Multiple virtual monitors
  • Privacy computing
  • Mobile productivity
  • Workspace anywhere

Technical Specifications

Specification Details
Display 1920x1080 per eye (stereo)
Virtual Displays Up to 5
Processor Snapdragon XR1
Tracking 6DoF (dual fish-eye)
Camera 8 MP RGB
Audio Speakers + 3 mics
Certification ANSI Z87.1
Weight 130g
Connection USB-C tethered
Price ~$1,500

Reception

Praise:

  • 1080p per eye high resolution
  • Up to 5 virtual displays innovative
  • 130g lightweight design
  • ANSI Z87.1 safety certified
  • 6DoF room-scale tracking
  • Tool-free modularity convenient
  • Dual edition flexibility
  • ThinkReality platform integration
  • Enterprise-ready features
  • Professional design

Criticism:

  • Requires tethered connection
  • Limited standalone capability
  • Enterprise pricing
  • Smartphone edition limited to Motorola
  • Field of view not specified
  • Not consumer-focused[2]

See Also

References