A breakthrough in wearable technology is redefining what smart glasses can do: generative AI running entirely on the device, without the need for a phone or cloud connection. Powered by the new Snapdragon AR1+ Gen 1 platform, the glasses allow an AI to interact seamlessly in every day scenarios-from shopping or any home tasks.
AI Fitting Inside Glasses
In a live demonstration, a generative AI assistant operated directly on smart glasses using a compact language model (SLM). During a simulated grocery trip, the assistant helped with a recipe, delivering audio guidance and text directly on the lenses all without any external device. This is a strong demonstration of what is going on with smart glasses from mere accessories to full-blown, standalone AI tools.
Snapdragon AR1+ Gen 1
The Snapdragon AR1+ Gen 1 processor, 26% smaller than previous generations, brings enhanced power efficiency, improved image quality, and the ability to run small language models directly on the glasses. These improvements are crucial for thinner, lighter frames that don’t compromise performance or functionality.
Flexible XR Ecosystem
Next-generation smart glasses will be available in various form factors. Some will be standalone, and others will be linked to nearby devices like smartphones, tablets, or portable computing “pucks.” This modular system provides flexible, high-performance experiences across various configurations while keeping AI interactions speedy, private, and responsive.
Improved Vision and Multimodal Inputs
Sophisticated camera features enable glasses to record and perceive the world in rich detail, enabling proactive suggestion and context-sensitive help. Even when not connected to other devices, these glasses can be paired with other wearables like smartwatches or rings, enabling new forms of interaction and input.
Conclusion
This demonstration represents the beginning of a new era in wearable AI, in which intelligent glasses have the capability to provide tailored, real-time support on the move. Powered by the Snapdragon AR1+ platform, Qualcomm is making some of the thinnest, cleverest, and most powerful glasses possible that might change the way we engage with technology in our everyday lives.
(This article has been adapted and modified from content on Qualcomm Technologies.)
