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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = Xreal Air 2 Ultra
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[AR Glasses]]
|Subtype = [[Developer AR]]
|Subtype = [[Tethered AR]]
|Platform = [[Nebula SDK]]
|Platform = [[Nebula]]
|Creator = [[Xreal]]
|Developer = [[Xreal]]
|Developer = [[Xreal]]
|Manufacturer = [[Xreal]]
|Manufacturer = [[Xreal]]
|Announcement Date = January 8, 2024 (CES 2024)
|Release Date = March 2024
|Release Date = March 2024
|Announcement Date = January 7, 2024 (CES)
|Price = $699
|Price = $699 USD
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/air2ultra
|Website = https://www.xreal.com/
|Versions = Xreal Air 2 Ultra
|Requires = USB-C compatible device (smartphone, tablet, or computer)
|Predecessor = [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
|Predecessor = [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
|Display = Micro-OLED (dual)
|Successor =
|Resolution = 1080p per eye
|Operating System = [[Nebula]] (companion app)
|PPD = 42 PPD
|Chipset = N/A (relies on connected device)
|Refresh Rate = 120 Hz
|CPU = N/A
|Brightness = 500 nits
|GPU = N/A
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Dual Sony micro-OLED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB
|Peak Brightness = 500 nits
|Resolution = 1920 × 1080 per eye (Full HD)
|Pixel Density = 42 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 120Hz
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 52°
|Field of View = 52°
|Horizontal FoV = 46°
|Vertical FoV = ~37°
|Average Pixel Density = 42 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = 42 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Birdbath optical system
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking = 6DoF (dual 3D cameras)
|IPD Range = Software adjustable
|Audio = Open-ear speakers
|Adjustable Diopter = Via prescription lens inserts (sold separately)
|Weight = 80g
|Passthrough = Native see-through (optical)
|Frame = Titanium
|Tracking = 6DoF (inside-out)
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz
|Base Stations = None required
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = Yes
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 120Hz (display)
|Tracking Volume = Room-scale
|Play Space = Unlimited (see-through)
|Latency = <4ms display latency
|Audio = Dual directional speakers
|Microphone = Yes (dual microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = No
|Camera = 2× 3D cameras for spatial tracking
|Connectivity = USB-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode)
|Ports = USB-C
|Wired Video = Yes (USB-C)
|Wireless Video = Via Xreal Beam (sold separately)
|WiFi = No (uses connected device)
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = USB-C powered (from connected device)
|Battery Capacity = N/A (powered by source device)
|Battery Life = N/A
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = 148mm × 52mm × 160mm
|Weight = 80g (glasses only)
|Material = Titanium alloy frame
|Headstrap = Glasses-style temples
|Haptics = No
|Color = Dark Gray
|Sensors = 2× 3D cameras, IMU, ambient light sensor
|Input = Hand tracking, connected device input, voice
|Compliance = TÜV Rheinland certified (eye comfort, color accuracy, low blue light)
|Size = Standard glasses form factor
}}
}}


The '''Xreal Air 2 Ultra''' is a developer-focused [[augmented reality]] glasses device developed by [[Xreal]], announced January 7, 2024 at CES and released March 2024 at $699. The first Xreal glasses with 6DoF positional tracking via dual 3D environment cameras, featuring 1080p per eye micro-OLED, 42 PPD clarity, 120 Hz refresh rate, 52° field of view, SLAM spatial computing, 80g titanium frame, and Nebula SDK compatibility for AR development.
The '''Xreal Air 2 Ultra''' is a pair of [[augmented reality]] [[AR glasses|glasses]] developed by [[Xreal]] (formerly Nreal), unveiled at CES 2024 on January 8, 2024, and released in March 2024 at a price of $699. Distinguished from the consumer-focused Air 2 and Air 2 Pro models, the Air 2 Ultra is specifically designed for developers and spatial computing enthusiasts, featuring dual 3D cameras that enable six degrees of freedom (6DoF) positional tracking and hand tracking capabilities not available in its siblings. Weighing just 80 grams thanks to its titanium alloy construction, the Air 2 Ultra brings true spatial AR experiences to a glasses-style form factor, earning comparisons to Apple Vision Pro at a fraction of the cost.


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


Xreal (formerly Nreal) unveiled the Air 2 Ultra at CES 2024 on January 7, 2024, releasing March 2024. Building on the Air 2 series' display glasses foundation, the Ultra added dual 3D cameras enabling 6DoF positional tracking and real-world spatial mapping. Targeting developers and early adopters rather than consumers, the Ultra represents Xreal's most advanced AR platform for building spatial computing applications.<ref name="xreal">{{cite web |url=https://next.xreal.com/us/air2ultra/ |title=Xreal Air 2 Ultra |publisher=Xreal |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Nreal Origins ===
Xreal was founded in 2017 under the name Nreal by Chi Xu, a former Magic Leap engineer. The company's mission was to create AR glasses that could be worn comfortably like regular eyewear while delivering meaningful augmented reality experiences. Early products like the Nreal Light targeted enterprise markets, but the company shifted toward consumer accessibility with the Air series.


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Rebranding to Xreal ===
In 2023, the company rebranded from Nreal to Xreal, reflecting its expanded vision and growing product portfolio. The name change coincided with increased investment in spatial computing technologies and the development of more capable AR hardware.


=== Display ===
=== Air Series Evolution ===
The Air series launched in 2022 as consumer-friendly AR glasses focused primarily on large-screen media consumption:
* '''Air''': Original consumer glasses with basic 3DoF head tracking
* '''Air 2''': Improved comfort and display brightness
* '''Air 2 Pro''': Added electrochromic dimming for varied environments
* '''Air 2 Ultra''': Developer-focused model with full spatial tracking


Micro-OLED quality:
=== CES 2024 Announcement ===
Xreal unveiled the Air 2 Ultra at CES 2024, positioning it as a developer platform for spatial AR applications. The announcement emphasized the glasses' ability to enable true augmented reality experiences with room-scale tracking and hand interaction, capabilities previously reserved for bulkier devices like Microsoft HoloLens or Magic Leap.


* '''1080p per eye''' resolution
=== Market Positioning ===
* '''Dual micro-OLED'''
The Air 2 Ultra launched shortly after Apple announced Vision Pro, and Xreal marketing explicitly drew comparisons—offering "true spatial computing at a fraction of the cost." While the comparison was ambitious given the vast capability differences, it highlighted Xreal's strategy of democratizing AR technology.
* '''42 PPD''' pixels per degree
* '''500 nits''' brightness
* '''120 Hz''' refresh rate
* '''52° field of view'''


=== 6DoF Tracking ===
== Design Philosophy ==


Spatial computing:
=== Glasses Form Factor ===
The Air 2 Ultra maintains a form factor resembling ordinary sunglasses:
* Lightweight titanium alloy frame (80g total weight)
* Curved temples for comfortable wear
* No bulky headband or visor
* Discrete appearance compared to traditional AR headsets


* '''6DoF positional tracking'''
=== Titanium Construction ===
* '''Dual 3D cameras'''
The choice of titanium for the frame provides multiple benefits:
* Computer vision
* High strength-to-weight ratio
* SLAM algorithms
* Corrosion resistance
* Spatial positioning
* Premium feel and durability
* Real-world mapping
* Flexibility for comfortable fit
* Object recognition


=== Design ===
=== Adjustable Fit System ===
Multiple adjustment options ensure proper fit:
* Three-position adjustable temples
* Three nose pad sizes included
* Balanced weight distribution
* Prescription lens insert compatibility


* '''80g weight'''
=== Electrochromic Dimming ===
* '''Titanium frame'''
Inherited from the Air 2 Pro, the front electrochromic layer offers:
* Wayfarer-style design
* Three dimming levels
* Compact form factor
* Adaptation to different lighting conditions
* Natural appearance
* Enhanced immersion when desired
* Quick toggle between transparent and darkened states


=== Audio ===
== Display Technology ==


* '''Open-ear speakers'''
=== Sony Micro-OLED Panels ===
* Spatial audio
The Air 2 Ultra utilizes the same display technology as its siblings:
* Directional sound
* '''Panel Source''': Sony micro-OLED
* '''Resolution''': 1920 × 1080 per eye (Full HD)
* '''Pixel Density''': 42 pixels per degree
* '''Refresh Rate''': Up to 120Hz
* '''Brightness''': 500 nits peak


== Compatibility ==
=== Virtual Screen Size ===
The optical system creates large virtual displays:
* Equivalent to a 154-inch screen at 4 meters
* Suitable for productivity, gaming, and media consumption
* Sharp text rendering for extended work sessions


=== Devices ===
=== Color Accuracy and Certification ===
TÜV Rheinland certification confirms:
* Accurate color reproduction
* Eye comfort for extended use
* Low blue light emission
* Flicker-free operation
* ISO standard compliance for image quality


* Mac laptops
== Spatial Tracking ==
* Windows laptops
* Samsung Android phones
* iPhone 15
* USB-C devices


=== SDK ===
=== 6DoF Inside-Out Tracking ===
The Air 2 Ultra's key differentiator is full positional tracking:
* '''Six Degrees of Freedom''': Translation and rotation in all axes
* '''Inside-Out Design''': No external sensors or beacons required
* '''World Mapping''': Creates spatial understanding of the environment
* '''Persistent Anchors''': AR content can maintain position relative to real-world locations


* '''Nebula SDK'''
=== Dual 3D Cameras ===
* AR development
Two cameras—one on each side of the lenses—enable spatial capabilities:
* Spatial applications
* Stereo depth perception
* Custom experiences
* Environment mapping
* Hand tracking input
* Object recognition potential


== Target Audience ==
=== Comparison to Air 2 and Air 2 Pro ===
The standard Air 2 models only offer 3DoF (rotation) tracking:
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Air 2 / Air 2 Pro !! Air 2 Ultra
|-
| Rotational Tracking || Yes || Yes
|-
| Positional Tracking || No || Yes
|-
| World Mapping || No || Yes
|-
| Hand Tracking || No || Yes
|-
| AR App Support || Limited || Full spatial AR
|}
 
== Hand Tracking ==
 
=== Gesture-Based Interaction ===
The dual camera system enables hand tracking:
* Recognition of hand position and orientation
* Individual finger tracking
* Gesture recognition for input
* Direct manipulation of AR content


=== Primary Users ===
=== Supported Gestures ===
Applications can utilize various gestures:
* Pinch to select
* Point to indicate
* Grab to manipulate
* Swipe for navigation


* '''Developers'''
== Input and Interaction ==
* Businesses
* AR pioneers
* Spatial computing early adopters


=== Differentiators ===
=== Multiple Input Modes ===
Users can interact through several methods:
* '''Hand Tracking''': Gesture-based spatial input
* '''Connected Device''': Touch input from smartphone or computer
* '''Voice''': Dual microphones for voice commands
* '''Xreal Beam''': Optional controller accessory


* 6DoF tracking (vs Air 2/Pro)
=== Xreal Beam Compatibility ===
* Real-world mapping
The optional Beam accessory adds:
* Professional features
* Wireless connectivity to more devices
* SDK development
* Built-in battery for extended use
* Additional input controls
* Expanded device compatibility


== Technical Specifications ==
== Audio System ==
 
=== Directional Speakers ===
Speakers integrated into the temples provide:
* Directional audio aimed at user's ears
* Privacy-focused sound projection
* Open design allows environmental awareness
* Spatial audio capability
 
=== Microphone Array ===
Dual microphones enable:
* Voice command input
* Video calls
* Voice memo recording
* Noise-aware audio processing
 
== Connectivity ==
 
=== USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode ===
Primary connection method:
* Single cable for video and power
* Direct connection to compatible devices
* No charging required (powered by source)
 
=== Device Compatibility ===
Works with various devices:
* '''Android''': Samsung Galaxy S22/S23 series and other USB-C DP compatible phones
* '''iOS''': iPhone 15 and later (USB-C)
* '''Mac''': MacBooks with USB-C
* '''Windows''': USB-C equipped laptops and desktops
* '''Steam Deck''': Gaming on the go
* '''PlayStation''': With appropriate adapters
 
=== Nebula Software ===
The Nebula companion app unlocks full functionality:
* Spatial AR workspace on Android
* Multiple virtual screens
* AR application ecosystem
* 6DoF tracking utilization (Ultra only)
 
== Use Cases ==
 
=== Developer Platform ===
The Air 2 Ultra is primarily positioned for developers:
* AR application development and testing
* Spatial computing experimentation
* Prototype demonstration
* SDK access for custom applications
 
=== Productivity ===
Multi-screen workspace applications:
* Virtual monitors in physical space
* Document comparison side-by-side
* Coding with expanded screen real estate
* Video conferencing with AR presence
 
=== Entertainment ===
Media consumption and gaming:
* Large-screen video viewing
* Mobile gaming on virtual big screen
* Cloud gaming (Xbox Game Pass, etc.)
* 3D content viewing
 
=== Navigation and Information ===
AR overlay applications:
* Turn-by-turn directions
* Information overlays
* Translation displays
* Contextual notifications
 
== Prescription Lens Support ==
 
=== ZEISS Partnership ===
Xreal partners with ZEISS for prescription inserts:
* Custom prescription lenses available
* Magnetic attachment system
* Same optical quality as standard configuration
* Various prescription ranges supported
 
== Comparison to Competitors ==
 
=== vs. Apple Vision Pro ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Xreal Air 2 Ultra !! Apple Vision Pro
|-
| Price || $699 || $3,499
|-
| Weight || 80g || 600g+
|-
| Display || 1080p per eye || 3660×3200 per eye
|-
| FOV || 52° || ~100°
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF || 6DoF
|-
| Hand Tracking || Yes || Yes
|-
| Eye Tracking || No || Yes
|-
| Standalone || No || Yes
|}
 
=== vs. Consumer AR Glasses ===
The Air 2 Ultra offers significantly more capability than basic AR glasses, bridging the gap between simple display glasses and full AR headsets.
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 109: Line 336:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 1080p micro-OLED x2
| Display || Dual Sony micro-OLED, 1920×1080 per eye
|-
|-
| PPD || 42
| Refresh Rate || Up to 120Hz
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 120 Hz
| Field of View || 52°
|-
|-
| Brightness || 500 nits
| Pixel Density || 42 PPD
|-
|-
| FOV || 52°
| Tracking || 6DoF inside-out
|-
|-
| Tracking || 6DoF (dual 3D cameras)
| Hand Tracking || Yes
|-
|-
| Frame || Titanium
| Weight || 80g
|-
|-
| Weight || 80g
| Audio || Directional speakers, dual microphones
|-
| Connection || USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode
|-
| Certifications || TÜV Rheinland (eye comfort, color accuracy)
|-
|-
| Price || $699
| Price || $699
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* 6DoF tracking first for Xreal
* Spatial computing capable
* 42 PPD sharp
* 120 Hz smooth
* 80g lightweight
* Titanium premium build
* SLAM mapping
* Developer SDK
* Affordable vs Vision Pro
'''Criticism:'''
* $699 developer premium
* 52° FOV narrow
* Not consumer-focused
* Requires compatible device
* SDK development needed
* Limited ecosystem
* Display glasses form factor
* Not standalone<ref name="tomsguide">{{cite web |url=https://www.tomsguide.com/news/xreal-air-2-ultra-ces-2024 |title=Xreal Air 2 Ultra CES 2024 |publisher=Tom's Guide |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Xreal]]
* [[Xreal Air 2]]
* [[Xreal Air 2]]
* [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
* [[Xreal Air 2 Pro]]
* [[Nreal Light]]
* [[AR Glasses]]
* [[Apple Vision Pro]]
* [[Spatial Computing]]
* [[Mixed Reality]]


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


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:AR Glasses]]
[[Category:Developer AR]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality]]
[[Category:Mixed Reality]]
[[Category:Xreal]]
[[Category:Xreal]]
[[Category:2024 in technology]]
[[Category:Tethered AR]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
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