In the world of augmented reality (AR), companies like Apple and Meta are focused on developing full-on headsets. However, one company has taken a different approach by introducing smaller AR glasses. Formerly known as Nreal, Xreal has been leading this trend since 2021 and has recently released its newest version, the Xreal Air 2, in Europe and the US after its initial launch in China last month. The Xreal Air 2 comes with improved displays and enhanced comfort, while Xreal also unveiled the Xreal Air 2 Pro, which features an electrochromic dimming function, allowing users to adjust the level of immersion according to their preferences.
Xreal, which stands for “extra”, promises that the Air 2 glasses can transform the wearer’s viewing experience into a “big screen” sensation, creating a virtual display of up to 330 inches. The glasses utilize Sony’s latest 0.55-inch Micro-OLED display, an improvement from the previous 0.68-inch version used by Nreal. This technology enables the Air 2 to deliver full HD resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 per eye, with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The new model also boasts 500 nits of brightness, surpassing the original Nreal Air’s 400 nits.
The Xreal Air 2 also offers a more streamlined design, being 10% thinner and 10% lighter compared to its predecessor, weighing only 72 grams. Xreal has made several comfort upgrades to the Air 2, including improved elastic temples, new “AirFit” nose pads, and the use of softer materials. These enhancements aim to allow for longer usage sessions without discomfort, particularly when watching movies or engaging with other content. It’s worth noting that the Air 2 is connected to devices via USB-C with video (DisplayPort) output, meaning users are tethered to their devices and have no wireless option.
Additionally, Xreal has made improvements to the audio speaker system in the Air 2, incorporating an “open ear” design that provides spatial wrap-around auto delivery. This design enhances privacy and minimizes disturbance to others when the glasses are used in public spaces. It also improves voice and video calls, as the Air 2 can capture audio from a connected smartphone or tablet.
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The flagship model in the Xreal Air 2 series is the Xreal Air 2 Pro, which introduces electrochromic dimming technology. This feature allows users to select from three modes: transparent mode, productivity mode, and immersive mode. Transparent mode allows light to pass through the glasses, enabling users to see the outside world while using the glasses. Productivity mode blocks 35% of outside light, assisting users in maintaining focus without completely isolating them from their surroundings. Immersive mode blocks all light, creating an immersive experience for gaming, entertainment, and more.
While the Xreal Air 2 may lack cameras and motion sensors, it offers a unique viewing experience, ideal for activities such as watching YouTube videos, playing lightweight games, and enjoying movies. The glasses operate as personal projectors, with the screen adjusting as the user moves their head. However, users have the option to purchase the Xreal Beam accessory for $119, which incorporates gyroscopic tracking. This accessory helps fix the virtual screen in place when the user moves their head and also provides additional wired connectivity options, resulting in reduced latency. According to reviews, the Xreal Beam functions similarly to the original Air model but is lighter and more comfortable to wear.
In terms of price, the Xreal Air 2 is priced at $399, available in black or red, while the Air 2 Pro costs $449. For full functionality, the Xreal Beam accessory is needed, bringing the total cost to $518 for the Air 2 and $568 for the Air 2 Pro. Compared to the Meta Quest 3, these prices may seem relatively high. Shipping for the Xreal Air 2 is expected to start in the US and UK in November 2023, and in other European countries in December.
In conclusion, Xreal has differentiated itself in the AR market by introducing smaller and more affordable AR glasses. With the release of the Xreal Air 2, the company has enhanced the display quality, comfort, and audio capabilities of its product. The option of the Xreal Beam accessory provides additional features such as gyroscopic tracking and reduced latency. However, potential buyers should consider the total cost of the glasses and accessories before making a purchase. Overall, Xreal’s innovative approach to AR glasses offers users a versatile and immersive viewing experience.
