Vuzix Blade
| Vuzix Blade | |
|---|---|
| Basic Info | |
| VR/AR | Augmented Reality |
| Type | Smart glasses |
| Subtype | AR Smart Glasses |
| Platform | Android |
| Creator | Vuzix |
| Price | $999.99 (Developer Kit) |
| Website | https://www.vuzix.com |
| System | |
| CPU | ARM Cortex-A53 (quad-core) |
| Storage | |
| Storage | Micro SD expandable |
| Display | |
| Display | Waveguide |
| Image | |
| Optics | |
| Tracking | |
| Audio | |
| Microphone | Noise-canceling |
| Connectivity | |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Ports | Micro SD slot |
| Device | |
| Weight | 96g (3.4 oz) |
| Sensors | Head motion tracker |
| Input | Touchpad, voice (Alexa), head motion |
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.[1]
History and Development
CES 2018 Debut
Vuzix unveiled the Blade at CES 2018, showcasing a more consumer-friendly design compared to their previous enterprise-focused devices.
Enterprise Heritage
Vuzix built a reputation in the enterprise AR market before launching the Blade, giving them credibility for business applications.
Consumer and Enterprise Focus
The Blade was designed to serve both professional use cases and consumer applications.
Design and Hardware
Sunglass Form Factor
- Weight: 96 grams (3.4 oz)
- Style: Resembles premium sunglasses
- Lenses: Standard UV protection
- Prescription: Compatible with prescription inserts
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)
Processor
ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU optimized for low power consumption.
Camera
- Resolution: 8 megapixels
- Video: 720p/1080p recording
- Indicator: Red LED indicates when recording
Input Methods
Touchpad
Side-mounted touchpad for gesture-based navigation.
Voice Control
Amazon Alexa integration for voice commands.
Head Motion
Head motion tracker for gesture-based control.
Haptic Feedback
Vibration alerts for notifications.
Audio
Microphone
Built-in noise-canceling microphone for voice control and calls.
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
Storage
Micro SD card slot for expandable storage.
Use Cases
Enterprise
- Remote assistance and expert guidance
- Hands-free documentation
- Work instructions and checklists
- Field service support
Consumer
- Notifications and alerts
- Navigation assistance
- Camera and media capture
- Voice assistant access
Product Evolution
Vuzix has continued developing the Blade series:
- Vuzix Blade 2 - Updated version with improved specifications
- Vuzix Shield - Enterprise safety glasses
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | Waveguide |
| Field of View | 20° diagonal |
| Virtual Screen | 6" at arm's length |
| Camera | 8MP HD (720p/1080p video) |
| Processor | ARM Cortex-A53 quad-core |
| OS | Android |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Voice Assistant | Amazon Alexa |
| Weight | 96g (3.4 oz) |
| Storage | Micro SD expandable |
| Price | $999.99 |