Smart Glasses Buying Guide: What You Need to Know
How to buy smart glasses? To answer this question, we have created a list of factors that you need to consider while buying smart glasses. Read on!
1. Position Tracking
Position tracking is the precise tracking of the position of the smart glasses (and thus the exact position of the user). The more accurate the tracking, the better the immersion in virtual reality. If there is any cavity or delay between the user’s positions in real life, it can greatly hinder the user experience. It is possible to have external or internal positional tracking:
External tracking uses external sensors and/or cameras to accurately track the position of smart glasses within an established space (room-scale). For a full room-scale, you need to install more than 2 sensors for avoiding any occlusion.
Internal tracking: smart glasses use one or more front cameras to detect their position, with or without the help of markers. This type of tracking is usually less powerful and accurate than external tracking.
2. FOV: Field of View
The more spaced the field of vision, the better. For position tracking, the human FOV (with ocular rotation) reaches a maximum of 220. Most smart glasses offer a horizontal FOV of around 100, but some HMD (head-mounted screens) can go up to 200. If the field of vision is too small, it will greatly reduce the feeling of immersion.
3. Controllers
Having the ability to use good controllers manages to significantly improve a virtual reality experience, basically when we talk about games. Users who hunt for virtual reality games should consider smart glasses that are equipped with decent controllers.
Smart glasses and their sensors can track the position of high-end 6 DoF controllers and have a trackpad, a trigger and push buttons to enable more control in the game. For casual games and virtual reality visualization, the 3 DoF pointer controllers (point and click) should be more than enough.
4. Sound
As on the big screen, audio plays a crucial role in helping users feel submerged. Smart glasses usually have built-in speakers, while high-end smart glasses sometimes offer built-in headphones. Also, smart glasses that have an integrated microphone provide users to interact with others in the game or use voice control.
5. Comfort
The comfort of smart glasses is another very decisive point to consider. The immersion of smart glasses may be the best, but if the device is heavy, itchy, unbalanced, or simply not comfortable, it can have a negative impact on the virtual reality experience. Smart glasses have to be as comfortable as possible to be used for at least an hour or two (or more for different types of users).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What can smart glasses do?
Smart glasses combine Augmented Reality technology into a wearable device that provides hands-free access to the internet. Users can access the internet, view up-to-date information, and listen to it using voice control, all without interrupting their work.
2. What are smart glasses for ADHD?
Smart glasses for ADHD, like the Narbis smart glasses set, include glasses equipped with brainwave sensors, a Bluetooth-enabled amplifier on an armband, and a tablet with training programs. These glasses use NASA-invented technology to measure users' brainwaves and provide feedback on their attention levels.
3. Are smart glasses better than VR?
Smart glasses and VR have different purposes. If you seek a fully immersive experience, VR/AR headsets are the way to go. They allow you to explore virtual worlds, play games, and have unique experiences. However, if you want a device that seamlessly integrates with your everyday life, smart glasses might be a better choice.
4. Can you put your prescription in smart glasses?
Some smart glasses, like the Blade, offer a do-it-yourself kit to change the lenses. This kit includes pre-manufactured lenses made according to your prescription. You can refer to the installation guide provided by the manufacturer to learn how to install your prescription lenses on the smart glasses.
5. Can you get smart glasses with prescription?
Yes, there are smart glasses available that can accommodate prescription lenses. For example, the Vue glasses offer the latest version designed for fit, comfort, and audio quality. These glasses come with prescription lenses included, providing the functionality of smart glasses while looking and feeling like regular glasses.
