Vuzix’s smart glasses still aren’t ready for prime time

guest · Feb 15, 2019

Vuzix’s smart glasses still aren’t ready for prime time
Despite its features, it's not worth $1,000
February 14, 2019
https://www.engadget.com/2019/02/14/vuzix-blade-smart-glasses/

After years of development, Vuzix is now ready to ship the Blade, its first pair of consumer-ready smart glasses. I had a good look at it last month, but at the time, it was lacking a few core features like Alexa integration and step-by-step directions.

A lot of the core features on the Blade are very smartphone-like. For example, I was finally able to test the Blade's call and messaging functions (I tested the Blade with a Google Pixel 3 as well as an iPhone XS). When incoming calls appear on the Blade's display, you can answer or decline them by tapping on the side of the glasses.

Another feature that only works with Android is Google Maps notifications. This is especially useful, because you can use the Blade for step-by-step walking directions.
The Focals also have a speaker built-in, so you don't need to use a Bluetooth headset to hear Alexa.
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In the end, the Blade has too many shortcomings for me to recommend it. I can see it being interesting for a subsection of the population that wants to try out cutting edge tech, but that's about it.
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plat · Feb 15, 2019

The article said the Blade is designed to be worn and used in conjunction with one's smart phone. If I wore glasses, I'd feel like a cyborg with them things. Plus, they're a bit plain. For a thousand USD, put some rhinestones around the edges--like they were swag.

mirimir · Feb 16, 2019

Yes, but this is progress. Blade is a lot more AR and a lot less movable spy cam than Google Glass was.

guest · Dec 27, 2021

Verizon partners with AR hardware maker Vuzix for some reason
December 27, 2021

It’s been a few years since we’ve heard from AR company Vuzix. In early 2019, it came out with its first pair of consumer-ready smart glasses.

After staying relatively quiet over the past two years, it’s now partnering with Verizon. The two didn’t share many details about their collaboration. What they did say is that they plan to find ways to commercialize AR technology for use in sports and gaming scenarios, especially those involving the need for training. The partnership will combine Vuzix’s new Shield smart glasses and the capabilities of Verizon’s 5G network.
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It’s hard to say if we’ll see anything impactful come out of this agreement, but it’s not a surprise to see Verizon become more involved in AR technology.
Likewise, the focus on gaming and sports isn’t surprising either. Some of the earliest locations where Verizon had 5G service was in NFL stadiums.
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Vuzix: Vuzix Announces Agreement with Verizon to Deliver Augmented Reality with 5G and Mobile Edge Compute

Agreement opens door to more immersive experiences delivered through smart glasses
The agreement between Vuzix and Verizon will focus on the technology advancement and commercialization aspects of delivering immersive augmented reality training experiences powered by Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband service and edge compute platform and Vuzix Shield™ smart glasses, a CES® 2022 Innovation Awards Honoree.

"By leveraging Verizon's 5G Edge and ultra-light weight AR smart glasses from Vuzix, we are delivering immersive technology in the field of sports training and fan experience," said Brian Mecum, Vice President of Device Technology at Verizon.
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