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RealWear Navigator 500: 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 = RealWear Navigator 500
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart Glasses]]
|Subtype = Enterprise AR (rugged)
|Subtype = [[Enterprise AR]]
|Platform = [[Android]]
|Platform = [[Android]] 11
|Creator = [[RealWear]]
|Creator = [[RealWear]]
|Announced = 2021
|Developer = [[RealWear]]
|Release = 2021
|Manufacturer = [[RealWear]]
|Announcement Date = December 8, 2021
|Release Date = 2022
|Price = ~$2,500
|Price = ~$2,500
|Website = https://www.realwear.com
|Website = https://www.realwear.com/
|OS = Android 11
|Versions = RealWear Navigator 500
|CPU = Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (2 GHz)
|Requires = None (standalone)
|Predecessor = [[RealWear HMT-1]]
|Successor = [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
|Operating System = [[Android]] 11
|Chipset = [[Qualcomm Snapdragon 662]]
|CPU = Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (octa-core)
|GPU = Adreno 610
|GPU = Adreno 610
|Storage = 64 GB (expandable to 512 GB)
|HPU =
|RAM = 4 GB
|Storage = 64GB
|Display = Monocular micro-display
|Memory = 4GB RAM
|Resolution = 854 x 480
|SD Card Slot = No
|Refresh =
|Display = LCD (monocular)
|Brightness =
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|FOV =
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|PPD =
|Resolution = 854 × 480
|Lenses = Adjustable arm
|Pixel Density = N/A
|IPD =
|Refresh Rate = 60Hz
|Eye Tracking =
|Persistence = N/A
|Hand Tracking =
|Field of View = 20°
|Tracking =
|Horizontal FoV = ~20°
|Spatial Mapping =
|Vertical FoV = ~11°
|Speakers = Built-in
|Average Pixel Density = N/A
|Microphone = Noise-canceling (up to 100 dB)
|Peak Pixel Density = N/A
|Audio Jack = 3.5mm
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi (a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 5.1, GPS
|Optics = Waveguide/prism
|Ports = USB-C
|Ocularity = Monocular (adjustable left/right)
|Battery = Hot-swappable
|IPD Range = N/A (monocular)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (compatible with corrective eyewear)
|Passthrough = Native see-through (display only)
|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 = Dual speakers (above ear)
|Microphone = Yes (4 noise-canceling microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = 48MP camera with autofocus (1080p @ 60fps video)
|Connectivity = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C
|Ports = USB-C, 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = No
|Wireless Video = Yes (streaming)
|WiFi = Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac dual-band)
|Bluetooth = Bluetooth 5.1
|Power = Internal battery
|Battery Capacity = Not specified
|Battery Life = ~8 hours
|Charge Time = ~2 hours
|Dimensions = Modular design
|Weight = 272g
|Weight = 272g
|Materials = IP66, MIL-STD-810H
|Material = Ruggedized plastic
|Colors = Black
|Headstrap = Head-mounted band / hardhat compatible
|Sensors = 48MP camera, fingerprint, compass, accelerometer, gyro
|Haptics = No
|Input = Voice control (100% hands-free)
|Color = Black
|Sensors = Accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, ambient light, barometer
|Input = Voice commands (100% hands-free), head motion
|Compliance = IP66, MIL-STD-810H, ATEX Zone 2 (Navigator 520)
}}
}}


The '''RealWear Navigator 500''' is a rugged enterprise [[augmented reality]] [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[RealWear]]. Designed for industrial frontline workers, the Navigator 500 features a head-mounted monocular display, 100% voice-controlled hands-free operation with noise-canceling microphones effective up to 100 dB, and a modular 48MP camera for detailed documentation and video collaboration. Running Android 11 on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB expandable storage, the device carries IP66 water/dust resistance and MIL-STD-810H durability ratings for extreme industrial environments from -20°C to 50°C.<ref name="realwear">{{cite web|url=https://www.realwear.com/devices/navigator-500|title=RealWear Navigator 500|publisher=RealWear}}</ref>
The '''RealWear Navigator 500''' is a rugged head-mounted wearable computer and [[smart glasses]] device developed by [[RealWear]], announced on December 8, 2021, and released in 2022 at a price of approximately $2,500. As the successor to the popular HMT-1, the Navigator 500 delivers significant improvements while maintaining RealWear's industry-leading voice control and rugged design philosophy: 28% lighter weight (272g vs 380g), upgraded Snapdragon 662 processor, 48MP camera with 1080p @ 60fps video (vs 16MP), and the same proven 100% hands-free voice operation that works in environments up to 100dB noise levels. The Navigator 500 retains the HMT-1's monocular 854 × 480 display with 20° field of view but adds improved battery efficiency, faster charging, and enhanced connectivity. Designed for industrial "deskless workers" in manufacturing, field service, energy, and other frontline environments, the Navigator 500 continues RealWear's "assisted reality" approach—providing glanceable information without obstructing the worker's view.


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


=== RealWear Heritage ===
=== RealWear Evolution ===
RealWear specializes in rugged head-mounted devices for industrial workers.
Product line history:
* HMT-1 (2017) - Original platform
* HMT-1Z1 (intrinsically safe)
* Navigator 500 (2021/2022)
* Navigator 520 (2023)


=== HMT-1 Successor ===
=== Market Feedback ===
The Navigator 500 succeeds the successful HMT-1 platform.
Customer-driven improvements:
* Weight reduction demand
* Better camera needed
* Faster processing
* Modern connectivity


=== 2021 Release ===
=== December 2021 Announcement ===
Launched with improved processor and camera capabilities.
Navigator 500 reveal:
* 28% lighter than HMT-1
* 48MP camera upgrade
* Snapdragon 662 processor
* 2022 availability


== Design and Hardware ==
=== Platform Continuity ===
Software compatibility:
* Android 11
* Existing apps compatible
* Partner ecosystem
* Smooth transition


=== Display ===
== Design Philosophy ==
* '''Type:''' Monocular micro-display
* '''Resolution:''' 854 x 480 pixels
* '''Position:''' Adjustable boom arm
* '''Eye:''' Can be positioned for either eye


=== Processor ===
=== Assisted Reality ===
* '''SoC:''' Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
Information overlay:
* '''Speed:''' 2 GHz
* Not AR with spatial mapping
* '''GPU:''' Adreno 610
* Glanceable information
* Document display
* Video collaboration


=== Memory ===
=== 100% Hands-Free ===
* '''RAM:''' 4 GB
Voice-first design:
* '''Storage:''' 64 GB internal
* Complete voice control
* '''Expansion:''' SD card up to 512 GB
* No hand gestures needed
* Industrial practical
* Safety compliant
 
=== Lighter, Better ===
Improved HMT-1:
* 272g (vs 380g)
* 28% weight reduction
* Same durability
* Enhanced comfort
 
=== Full-Shift Battery ===
Work day operation:
* ~8 hours battery life
* Complete shift coverage
* Hot-swap capable
* Continuous operation
 
== Display Technology ==


=== Operating System ===
=== Monocular LCD ===
Android 11.
Information display:
* '''Resolution''': 854 × 480
* '''Type''': 24-bit LCD color
* '''Equivalent''': 7" tablet at arm's length
* Same as HMT-1


== Durability ==
=== Field of View ===
Information window:
* 20° field of view
* Data display focused
* Not immersive
* Glanceable information


=== IP66 Rating ===
=== Display Pod ===
* Water resistant (high-pressure jets)
Adjustable positioning:
* Dust tight
* Rotatable mount
* Left or right eye
* Adjustable angle
* User-configurable


=== Military Standard ===
== Processing ==
* MIL-STD-810H certified
* Drop tested
* Vibration resistant


=== Temperature Range ===
=== Snapdragon 662 ===
* Operating: -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
Upgraded processor:
* Extreme environment capable
* '''Platform''': Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
* '''Cores''': Octa-core
* '''RAM''': 4GB
* '''Storage''': 64GB


=== Weight ===
=== Performance Improvement ===
272 grams.
vs HMT-1:
* Faster processor
* More storage (64GB vs 32GB)
* Better efficiency
* Modern platform


== Camera ==
== Camera ==


=== Modular 48MP Camera ===
=== 48MP Camera ===
* High-resolution imaging
Major upgrade:
* Low-light performance
* '''Resolution''': 48 megapixels
* Autofocus
* '''Video''': 1080p @ 60fps
* Image stabilization
* '''Autofocus''': Yes
* '''Improvement''': 3× vs HMT-1 (16MP)


=== Video ===
=== Camera Applications ===
Real-time video chat and documentation.
Use cases:
* Remote expert assistance
* Documentation capture
* Barcode scanning
* Visual inspection


=== Optional Thermal Camera ===
=== Video Quality ===
Teledyne FLIR thermal camera module available.
1080p @ 60fps:
* Smooth video
* High quality streaming
* Professional grade
* Expert collaboration


== Voice Control ==
== Voice Control ==


=== 100% Hands-Free ===
=== Industry-Leading Voice ===
* Full voice command operation
Best-in-class:
* No touch required
* 100% voice controlled
* Industrial workflow integration
* No touch needed
* Natural language
* Reliable recognition


=== Noise Cancellation ===
=== Noise Cancellation ===
* Filters ambient noise up to 100 dB
Industrial environment:
* Clear communication in loud environments
* 4 noise-canceling microphones
* Factory and construction site ready
* Works up to 100dB
* Factory floor capable
* Loud environment tested


== Connectivity ==
=== Voice Commands ===
Navigation method:
* Menu navigation
* Application control
* Document scrolling
* Complete functionality


=== Wireless ===
=== Language Support ===
* '''Wi-Fi:''' 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
International use:
* '''Bluetooth:''' 5.1
* 15+ languages supported
* '''GPS:''' Built-in
* English, German, French
* Japanese, Chinese, Korean
* And more


=== Wired ===
== Audio ==
* USB-C port
* 3.5mm audio jack


== Battery ==
=== Dual Speakers ===
Improved audio:
* Two speakers
* Positioned above ears
* Clear in noisy environments
* Communication capable


=== Hot-Swappable ===
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
* Replace battery without power down
Headphone option:
* Full shift operation
* Private listening
* Extended use capability
* Hearing protection compatible
* Alternative audio
* User choice


== Sensors ==
== Sensors ==


=== Built-in ===
=== Motion Sensors ===
* Fingerprint sensor
Orientation detection:
* Digital compass
* Accelerometer
* 3-axis accelerometer
* Gyroscope
* Gyroscope
* Magnetometer
* 3DoF tracking
=== Environmental Sensors ===
Additional sensing:
* Ambient light sensor
* Barometer
* Location awareness
* Environmental data
== Battery ==
=== Long-Duration Battery ===
Full-shift operation:
* '''Life''': ~8 hours active
* '''Charging''': ~2 hours
* Hot-swap capable
* Same as HMT-1
=== Battery Improvement ===
Efficiency gains:
* More efficient processor
* Same battery life
* Faster charging
* Improved power management
== Physical Design ==
=== Lightweight Construction ===
Major improvement:
* '''Weight''': 272g
* 28% lighter than HMT-1 (380g)
* Extended comfort
* Same durability
=== Rugged Construction ===
Industrial grade:
* IP66 water/dust resistant
* MIL-STD-810H certified
* Drop tested
* Extreme temperature operation
=== Mounting Options ===
Flexible wear:
* Head-mounted band
* Hardhat attachment
* Bump cap mount
* Safety glasses compatible
=== Display Boom ===
Adjustable arm:
* Rotatable display pod
* Left or right eye
* Position adjustable
* User preference
== Software ==
=== Android 11 ===
Operating system:
* Modern Android
* Enterprise customization
* App ecosystem
* Regular updates
=== RealWear Cloud ===
Management platform:
* Device management
* Remote configuration
* Fleet deployment
* Enterprise control


== Use Cases ==
=== Partner Applications ===
Software ecosystem:
* Microsoft Teams
* Zoom
* Cisco WebEx
* Custom enterprise apps


=== Industrial ===
== Enterprise Applications ==
* Manufacturing
* Field service
* Maintenance and repair


=== Remote Expert ===
=== Remote Expert ===
* "See What I See" collaboration
Video collaboration:
* "See what I see"
* Real-time guidance
* Real-time guidance
* Expert consultation
* Problem resolution
=== Manufacturing ===
Production support:
* Assembly guidance
* Quality inspection
* Training support
* Training support
* Process documentation
=== Field Service ===
Technician support:
* Repair guidance
* Procedure documentation
* Hands-free reference
* Remote assistance
=== Energy ===
Oil and gas:
* Inspection support
* Safety compliance
* Remote expert access
* Hazardous environment capable


== Specifications ==
== Comparison with HMT-1 ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Navigator 500 !! HMT-1
|-
| Price || ~$2,500 || ~$2,500
|-
| Weight || 272g || 380g
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon 662 || Snapdragon 626
|-
| Camera || 48MP (1080p@60fps) || 16MP (1080p@30fps)
|-
| Storage || 64GB || 32GB
|-
| Android || Android 11 || Android 8.1
|-
| Display || 854×480 || 854×480
|-
| FOV || 20° || 20°
|-
| Battery Life || ~8 hours || ~8 hours
|}
 
== Strengths and Limitations ==
 
=== Strengths ===
* 28% lighter than HMT-1 (272g)
* Industry-leading voice control
* 48MP camera (3× HMT-1)
* 1080p @ 60fps video
* ~8 hours battery life
* IP66/MIL-STD-810H rugged
* 100dB noise environment capable
 
=== Limitations ===
* Same display resolution as HMT-1
* Same FOV (20°)
* Not true AR (assisted reality)
* Monocular only
* High price point
* Enterprise-only
* 3DoF tracking only
 
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 162: Line 417:
! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || Monocular (854 x 480)
| Display || LCD, 854 × 480
|-
|-
| Processor || Snapdragon 662 (2 GHz)
| FOV || 20°
|-
|-
| RAM || 4 GB
| Processor || Snapdragon 662 (octa-core)
|-
|-
| Storage || 64 GB (+512 GB SD)
| Memory || 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
|-
|-
| OS || Android 11
| Camera || 48MP, 1080p@60fps video
|-
|-
| Camera || 48MP (modular)
| Audio || 4 noise-canceling mics, dual speakers
|-
| Battery || ~8 hours
|-
|-
| Durability || IP66, MIL-STD-810H
| Durability || IP66, MIL-STD-810H
|-
|-
| Temperature || -20°C to 50°C
| Voice Control || 100% hands-free, 100dB tolerance
|-
| Noise Canceling || Up to 100 dB
|-
| Battery || Hot-swappable
|-
|-
| Weight || 272g
| Weight || 272g
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* [[RealWear]]
* [[RealWear]]
* [[RealWear HMT-1]]
* [[RealWear HMT-1]]
* [[RealWear Navigator 520]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Enterprise AR]]
* [[Industrial AR]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[Rugged devices]]
* [[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:Industrial AR]]
[[Category:Rugged devices]]
[[Category:RealWear]]
[[Category:RealWear]]
[[Category:Industrial Wearables]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]
[[Category:2020s AR]]