What you need to know
- Xreal debuts its entry-level sub-brand, X by Xreal (XBX), which debuts with its first pair of AR glasses, the a01.
- XBX highlights these glasses as a pair that’s for gamers and movie-lovers, as its displays remain consistent with detailed, vibrant content when on-the-go or laying down.
- The a01 also support interchangeable lenses and customizable front-frames.
- XBX launched the a01 first in China; however, they will come to the U.S. in July for $299.
Xreal looks to solve an entry-level AR market problem by introducing its new sub-brand and its first pair of smart glasses.
The company has introduced X by Xreal, otherwise known as XBX. This sub-brand isn’t empty-handed in its debut this week, as a press release states the a01 AR glasses launch. XBX states the a01 features a 1,600nit HDR10 ultra-bright display. What’s more, these glasses support 14 levels of brightness, so consumers can adjust their screen for comfort. XBX has combined this bright display with dual-layer MicroOLED screens and a “dedicated image enhancement chip.”
Users can make whatever they’re looking at feel like it’s straight from a movie with the a01’s SDR-to-HDR conversion technology. Ensuring that you can see everything clearly and without fail, XBX integrated an “industry-first” anti-shake algorithm. It states this should solve “blurry” or “washed out” colors when viewing content. The a01 is expected to remain consistent while riding public transportation (trains, buses) and more for users watching shows or movies.
As you might assume, XBX is positioning the a01 glasses as a “pocket cinema.” However, it’s much more than that, as the company is also looking to give a good entry-level avenue into AR glasses for gamers.
“Just Play” is where these glasses come in. Through the vibrant, consistent screen of the a01, XBX says gamers can immerse themselves in the worlds they enjoy. The brand’s Just Play motto is further enhanced by relieved limitations through this AR device. These glasses are said to turn handheld consoles and smartphones “into a massive screen in seconds.”
Chi Xu, Xreal’s co-founder and CEO, commented on this debut, saying, “X By XREAL was created to bring the core magic of XREAL’s flagship experiences to a broader audience. The a01 borrows from years of innovation, found in our flagship products like the XREAL One Series, and refines them into an accessible platform designed to welcome the next generation of AR glasses owners.”
Consumers won’t find a camera on these glasses. This was a design choice to help keep the glasses light. XBX says the a01 weighs ~62g, so users won’t feel so burdened throughout the day. Its nylon body can be thanked for that, while XBX worked on reducing the lens thickness.
XBX style
Consumers can’t get a new AR product without having a level of customization. The post highlights interchangeable front frames. XBX gives consumers the choice of swapping between “transparent and immersive viewing scenarios.” For users who want to go that extra mile, XBX says they can 3D print their own front-frame accessories for the a01 glasses.
Overseas users will have to wait, as XBX launches the a01 AR glasses in China first. However, the wait won’t be so grueling, as it announces U.S. consumers can get their hands on this pair in July for $299.
Android Central’s Take
Entry-level AR glasses. It reminds me of mid-range phones. I guess it makes sense, to see the smart glasses market shift in this way. Xreal, or rather XBX, is trying to get ahead of the game with this launch. I like that this is a thing. If you think about it, there are smart glasses out there that are pretty much the price of a phone. Sure, these lack cameras, but that doesn’t break anything for me. I’d have my phone with me, or an actual camera, so whatever. I give XBX a strong thumbs up for this one.