The arrival of the iPhone 15
iPhone 15 has ushered in a significant advancement with the adoption of USB-C, streamlining cable management and offering a seamless user experience. Yet, this development extends beyond mere convenience, as it paves the way for native video output, transforming the iPhone into a versatile hub for diverse applications, especially when you’re on the go.
Enter the realm of “augmented reality” glasses, a burgeoning category of affordable devices priced between $300 and $500. These can be more aptly described as “glasses equipped with integrated projector screens.” Among the leaders in this category are the Xreal Air glasses, which now come in upgraded versions, the Xreal Air 2 and Xreal Air 2 Pro. These glasses stand out with their impressive 120Hz, 0.68-inch MicrOLED display, projecting sharp images onto your lenses via a sophisticated mirror mechanism. This innovative design allows for a seamless transition between the digital realm and the real world. For a heightened immersive experience and true deep blacks, you can attach a physical hood to the glasses to block out external light.
What sets the Xreal Air glasses apart is their reliance on the connected devices for power, much like USB-C portable monitors. Utilizing the provided USB-C to USB-C cable, these glasses effortlessly sync with the entire iPhone 15 range, instantly mirroring your phone’s display onto the Air’s screen. The default setting mirrors your home screen and apps, but for video streaming applications that support video output, you’ll enjoy a full-screen landscape view when watching shows and movies.
These glasses excel as gaming accessories, particularly when combined with the Backbone USB-C controller, delivering an expansive and immersive gaming experience. They are equally proficient for web browsing when used with a minimalist setup that includes a paired Bluetooth keyboard. Furthermore, they offer the convenience of integrating your prescription lenses via an included insert, available for a reasonable cost from HONSVR, typically around $50, inclusive of shipping.
The Xreal Air experience can be further enhanced with the optional Xreal Beam accessory, allowing you to anchor your virtual display in space relative to your head’s orientation. This feature significantly reduces discomfort and the risk of seasickness. The Xreal Beam also features its own app ecosystem, although it’s still in its early stages of development. In addition to enhancing the augmented reality experience, it serves as a backup battery bank, capable of connecting to a variety of devices, including gaming consoles such as the Nintendo Switch and PS5, offering a virtual display that can scale up to a remarkable 300 inches.
To be clear, the Xreal Air glasses provide a glimpse of what the forthcoming iPhone Apple Vision Pro intends to offer. While they may not represent a groundbreaking paradigm shift like the Vision Pro, they present an appealing option, given their affordability and immediate availability. With their everyday features, portability, and discreet design, these glasses cater to the needs of a broad audience, even as the Vision Pro prepares to make its debut next year.
