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Vuzix Blade: Difference between revisions

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Improving page with detailed specifications, sections, and references
Improving page with detailed specifications, history, features, and references
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|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Consumer AR]]
|Subtype = AR Smart Glasses
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Developer = [[Vuzix]]
|Creator = [[Vuzix]]
|Manufacturer = [[Vuzix]]
|Announced = CES 2018
|Release Date = January 2019
|Release = 2019
|Announcement Date = CES 2018
|Price = $999.99 (Developer Kit)
|Price = $999 USD
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com
|Website = https://www.vuzix.com/
|OS = Android
|Successor = [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
|CPU = ARM Cortex-A53 (quad-core)
|Chipset = Quad Core ARM A53
|GPU =
|Storage = Micro SD expandable
|RAM =
|Display = Waveguide
|Display = Waveguide
|Resolution = 480x480
|Resolution =
|Field of View = 19° (28° adjustable window)
|Refresh =
|Ocularity = Monocular (right eye)
|Brightness =
|Cameras = 8MP HD
|FOV = 20° diagonal
|Audio = Integrated speaker + noise-cancelling mic
|Virtual Screen = 6" at arm's length (17")
|PPD =
|Lenses = UV protection (prescription compatible)
|IPD =
|Eye Tracking =
|Hand Tracking =
|Tracking =
|Spatial Mapping =
|Speakers =
|Microphone = Noise-canceling
|Audio Jack =
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
|Weight = 90g
|Ports = Micro SD slot
|Storage = 8GB + microSD
|Battery = Built-in
|Weight = 96g (3.4 oz)
|Materials =
|Colors =
|Sensors = Head motion tracker
|Input = Touchpad, voice (Alexa), head motion
}}
}}


The '''Vuzix Blade''' is a monocular [[augmented reality]] smart glasses device developed by [[Vuzix]], released January 2019 at $999. One of the first self-contained AR smart glasses featuring Vuzix waveguide optics, right-eye 480x480 display, 8MP camera, Android OS, Alexa integration, touchpad and head-motion controls, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, and 90g lightweight design. Targeted at prosumers and enterprise users.
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>


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


Vuzix announced the Blade at CES 2018, releasing January 2019 as one of the first standalone AR smart glasses. Unlike tethered AR glasses, the Blade operates independently with built-in Android OS and connectivity. The device targeted early adopters and enterprise applications with features like Alexa integration and hands-free operation. Succeeded by Blade 2 with improved specifications.<ref name="vuzix">{{cite web |url=https://www.vuzix.com/products/vuzix-blade-2-smart-glasses |title=Vuzix Blade Smart Glasses |publisher=Vuzix |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== CES 2018 Debut ===
Vuzix unveiled the Blade at CES 2018, showcasing a more consumer-friendly design compared to their previous enterprise-focused devices.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Enterprise Heritage ===
Vuzix built a reputation in the enterprise AR market before launching the Blade, giving them credibility for business applications.


=== Display ===
=== Consumer and Enterprise Focus ===
The Blade was designed to serve both professional use cases and consumer applications.


Waveguide optics:
== Design and Hardware ==


* '''480x480 resolution'''
=== Sunglass Form Factor ===
* '''1:1 aspect ratio'''
* '''Weight:''' 96 grams (3.4 oz)
* '''Right-eye monocular'''
* '''Style:''' Resembles premium sunglasses
* '''19° field of view'''
* '''Lenses:''' Standard UV protection
* '''28° adjustable window'''
* '''Prescription:''' Compatible with prescription inserts
* Vuzix waveguide technology
* 24-bit color
* Transparent display


=== Processing ===
=== Display System ===
* '''Technology:''' Waveguide optics
* '''Field of View:''' 20 degrees diagonal
* '''Virtual Screen:''' Equivalent to a 6-inch mobile device at arm's length (17 inches)


* '''Quad Core ARM A53'''
=== Processor ===
* '''1GB RAM'''
ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU optimized for low power consumption.
* '''8GB flash storage'''
* '''microSD expansion'''
* Android OS


=== Camera ===
=== Camera ===
* '''Resolution:''' 8 megapixels
* '''Video:''' 720p/1080p recording
* '''Indicator:''' Red LED indicates when recording


* '''8MP HD camera'''
== Input Methods ==
* '''1080p video''' recording
* Photo capture
* Documentation
 
=== Audio ===
 
* '''Integrated speaker'''
* '''Noise-cancelling microphone'''
* Voice control
* Alexa enabled


=== Controls ===
=== Touchpad ===
Side-mounted touchpad for gesture-based navigation.


* '''Touchpad'''
=== Voice Control ===
* '''Head motion tracking'''
Amazon Alexa integration for voice commands.
* Haptic feedback
* Vibration alerts
* Intuitive interaction


=== Connectivity ===
=== Head Motion ===
Head motion tracker for gesture-based control.


* '''Wi-Fi'''
=== Haptic Feedback ===
* '''Bluetooth'''
Vibration alerts for notifications.
* Android ecosystem
* Cloud services


=== Lenses ===
== Audio ==


* '''UV protection standard'''
=== Microphone ===
* Prescription inserts available
Built-in noise-canceling microphone for voice control and calls.
* Safety lenses optional
* Tinted options


=== Design ===
== Connectivity ==


* '''90g weight'''
* Wi-Fi
* Glasses form factor
* Bluetooth
* All-day wearable
* Compatible with iOS and Android devices
* Self-contained


== Features ==
== Storage ==


=== Alexa Integration ===
Micro SD card slot for expandable storage.


* Voice assistant
== Use Cases ==
* Hands-free commands
* Smart home control
* Information queries


=== Notifications ===
=== Enterprise ===
* Remote assistance and expert guidance
* Hands-free documentation
* Work instructions and checklists
* Field service support


* '''Haptic alerts'''
=== Consumer ===
* Message display
* Notifications and alerts
* Calendar reminders
* Navigation assistance
* Call notifications
* Camera and media capture
* Voice assistant access


=== Applications ===
== Product Evolution ==


* Navigation
Vuzix has continued developing the Blade series:
* Translation
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]] - Updated version with improved specifications
* Fitness tracking
* [[Vuzix Shield]] - Enterprise safety glasses
* Enterprise apps


== Technical Specifications ==
== Specifications ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 480x480 waveguide
| Display || Waveguide
|-
| Field of View || 20° diagonal
|-
|-
| FOV || 19° (28° window)
| Virtual Screen || 6" at arm's length
|-
|-
| Eye || Right (monocular)
| Camera || 8MP HD (720p/1080p video)
|-
|-
| Processor || ARM A53 Quad Core
| Processor || ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core
|-
|-
| RAM || 1GB
| OS || Android
|-
|-
| Storage || 8GB + microSD
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
|-
|-
| Camera || 8MP HD
| Voice Assistant || Amazon Alexa
|-
|-
| Connectivity || Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
| Weight || 96g (3.4 oz)
|-
|-
| Weight || 90g
| Storage || Micro SD expandable
|-
|-
| Price || $999
| Price || $999.99
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* First standalone AR glasses
* Waveguide optics advanced
* 90g lightweight
* Alexa integration
* Hands-free operation
* No tether required
* Android versatility
* Touchpad intuitive
* Enterprise-ready
'''Criticism:'''
* 480x480 low resolution
* 19° FOV very narrow
* Monocular only
* $999 expensive for specs
* Unflattering design
* Fit uncomfortable
* Tinted lenses required
* Limited app ecosystem
* Battery life short<ref name="tomsguide">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomsguide.com/us/vuzix-blade,review-6065.html |title=Vuzix Blade Review |publisher=Tom's Guide |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Vuzix]]
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
* [[Vuzix Blade 2]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Vuzix M400]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[AR smart glasses]]
* [[North Focals]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Smart glasses]]
[[Category:Enterprise AR]]
[[Category:Consumer AR]]
[[Category:Consumer AR]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:Vuzix]]
[[Category:2019 in technology]]
[[Category:2010s AR]]
Retrieved from "https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Vuzix_Blade"