Ten years ago, the release of the Apple Watch revolutionized the very idea of a watch, transforming it from a simple timekeeping tool into a versatile tool. What does the future hold for smartwatches?
TL;DR
- AI smart glasses are redefining wearable technology.
- Global and Chinese companies really invested in this sector.
- However, there are obstacles to the mass adoption of this technology.
A revolution at the tip of the nose
Previously, the idea of a timepiece evolving into a health, payment and communication tool seemed unrealizable. However, the Apple Watch changed this perspective about ten years ago. Today, it is another high-tech product that seems to be generating enthusiasm: AI smart glasses. Sporting technologies such as augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI) and mixed reality (MR), they promise to improve our interactions with the digital and physical worlds.
The attraction of tech giants
This trend is as much Western as Asian. Recently, Rokid, an AR manufacturer in China, collaborated with Bolon, a fashion eyewear brand, to launch AR+AI glasses. Other Chinese companies such as Baidu, Xiaomi, Huawei and Thunderbird have also unveiled their products, fueling a crucial debate: will these glasses bring “new wave of innovation” or will they remain a niche product? Rayban Meta has just integrated AI, Snapchat opens its new form factor, shows, to developers! Xreal will make announcements on December 4, AR for all ????
AI: potential awaiting application
Despite the scale of expectations, massive investments in AI are slow to truly transform our daily lives. Despite tens of billions de dollars injected to support AI linguistic models, there remains an urgent need to find practical applications. AI smart glasses then emerge as a possible route. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, expressed at the annual Siggraph 2024 conference his belief that these glasses could be the next big technological breakthrough.
The mirror of the past: the Magic Leap case
However, we must remain moderate in the face of these perspectives. The case of Magic Leap, once presented as the next big step in augmented reality, reminds us that we must demonstrate prudence. Despite exceptional financial support, the company has had to face significant obstacles, demonstrating that technology has not yet been able to find the balance between innovation and practical use.
Obstacles still on the way
Material and economic constraints still remain major challenges. Limited battery, bulky design and high cost of advanced components are all barriers to mass adoption. For now, the road to widespread use of AI smart glasses remains uncertain but full of opportunities.
