The landscape of wearable technology is rapidly evolving, with smart glasses emerging as a focal point for innovation. Two prominent contenders in this arena are Apple’s anticipated smart glasses and Xreal’s existing offerings. This article delves into the current state of both products, comparing their features, availability, and potential impact on the market.
Xreal’s Present Offerings
Xreal has made significant strides in the augmented reality (AR) sector with its Air series of smart glasses. The Xreal Air 2 Ultra, for instance, is a lightweight device weighing approximately 80 grams, designed to resemble traditional sunglasses for everyday wear. It boasts a 52-degree field of view (FoV) and 42 pixels per degree (PPD), delivering a sharp and immersive visual experience. The glasses support a refresh rate of up to 120Hz and a peak brightness of 500 nits, ensuring vibrant and smooth visuals. Compatibility is a strong suit for Xreal, with the Air 2 Ultra supporting various devices, including Mac and Windows laptops, Samsung Android phones, and the iPhone 15 series. Notably, it also supports Apple’s Spatial Video feature, allowing users to view 3D content captured on compatible iPhones. ([androidauthority.com](https://www.androidauthority.com/p-3400002/?utm_source=openai))
In terms of functionality, Xreal’s NebulaOS offers a virtual interface that allows users to interact with digital content seamlessly. The system provides options for virtual screens that can either move with the user’s head or remain fixed in space, offering flexibility based on user preference. Additionally, the Xreal Beam Pro device enhances the experience by enabling spatial computing capabilities, allowing users to open multiple applications in a virtual environment. ([digitaltrends.com](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/xreal-vs-apple-vision-pro/?utm_source=openai))
Apple’s Anticipated Smart Glasses
As of May 2025, Apple’s smart glasses remain in the development phase, with projected launch dates extending to late 2026 or 2027. The company envisions a product equipped with cameras, microphones, and its proprietary AI model, aiming to provide functionalities such as answering questions, giving directions, and offering contextual feedback through Siri integration. While the concept is promising, the lack of tangible products or prototypes makes it challenging to assess the potential impact of Apple’s smart glasses on the current market.
Comparative Analysis
Availability and Market Presence
Xreal’s smart glasses are currently available, providing consumers and developers with tangible products to explore and integrate into their workflows. The Air 2 Ultra, priced at $699, offers an affordable entry point into AR technology. In contrast, Apple’s smart glasses are still in development, with no concrete release date, leaving potential users in anticipation.
Design and Comfort
Xreal’s design focuses on blending technology with everyday wearability. The lightweight and sunglasses-like appearance of the Air 2 Ultra makes it suitable for prolonged use without drawing undue attention. Apple’s design philosophy is renowned for its emphasis on aesthetics and user comfort; however, without a physical product, it’s speculative to comment on the design aspects of their forthcoming smart glasses.
Functionality and Features
Xreal’s smart glasses offer a range of features, including high-resolution displays, compatibility with multiple devices, and support for spatial video playback. The integration with the NebulaOS and Beam Pro device enhances the user experience by providing a versatile virtual interface and spatial computing capabilities. Apple’s proposed features, such as AI integration and Siri support, suggest a focus on creating a seamless and intuitive user experience. However, the absence of a physical product means these features remain theoretical at this stage.
Conclusion
In the current landscape, Xreal’s smart glasses offer a practical and accessible entry into augmented reality, with tangible products that consumers and developers can utilize today. Apple’s anticipated smart glasses, while promising in concept, remain on the horizon, leaving the market to speculate on their eventual impact. For those seeking immediate engagement with AR technology, Xreal presents a compelling option, whereas Apple’s offerings may appeal to those willing to wait for potentially more integrated and polished solutions in the future.
