How close are we to stylish, lightweight AR headsets?

The race to create the world’s first commercially-successful augmented reality (AR) headset is heating up!

Many see — and justifiably so — the AR headset as the sole piece of “wearable” tech that could catapult user / consumer experiences to another level.

We’ve touched on how AR is — and will continue to — transform the way we shop as well as enhance gaming experiences.

But, one aspect of AR that may be just as important as any other yet is not discussed enough:

How close are we to stylish, lightweight AR headsets?

No matter how advanced the AR software may get that any company develops — including us here at OVR — the bottom line for most consumers is this:

If they either don’t like or don’t like to carry around AR headsets, then the chances of them using AR Headsets is slim to none.

So, how close are we truly to lightweight & stylish AR headset design?

Well, take a look at this first to see what it’s like to explore the latest in AR headsets at AWE, the world’s largest Augmented Reality Expo.

Now, let’s discuss some reasons creating a stylish, lightweight AR Headset is so difficult to achieve. After this, we’ll end with the way we’re approaching AR headset design here at OVR. Sound good?

OK, let’s dig in.

WHY IS THIS SO DIFFICULT TO ACHIEVE?

There are two main reasons why creating stylish & lightweight headsets is so difficult to achieve.

First:

It’s not easy getting high-level function and visuals into a sleek design. This is related mostly to our expectations as end-users.

No matter the amount of innovation or development that goes into the making of an AR headset, what matters most to us as end-users is:

Is the quality of the visual comparable — or better — than what we can experience on our smartphones?

It’s important to remember here that at this point most people spend their time consuming visual content that’s pretty much HD quality, at least.

So, even though AR offers a reality placed on top of our reality, it still remains that we are by and large used to a particular type of visual experience.

Wouldn’t you agree?

Secondly:

If AR Headsets aren’t stylish enough to be worn as sunglasses that one would wear whether AR capable or not, then there’s a good chance people won’t wear them.

This is the second reason why this so difficult to achieve.

AR Headsets — essentially — compete with non-AR sunglasses.

So, the question for many consumers:

Should I buy a pair of RayBans, Oakley’s or [insert AR Headset here]?

Event though of course this may likely not be the set of eye wear a potential buyer would choose from (those wanting AR Headsets may not be in the market as well for stylish RayBans) this is only to make a point:

AR Headsets must be stylish enough for end-users to wear them daily.

And because of all the tech involved, as mentioned, this is difficult to achieve.

In addition to the alternative eye wear options on the market!