Over the past few years, rapid advances in augmented reality (AR) monitor technology have opened up incredible new possibilities for interacting directly with digital content.
Among the most exciting is the ability to use AR glasses to replace bulky traditional computer and video monitors. This idea, once just something out of science fiction, is now a reality thanks to significant recent strides in AR technology.
The benefits of AR glasses extend far beyond simple convenience. These fantastic devices promise to revolutionize work environments, enhance multitasking capabilities, and provide unprecedented flexibility in how and where we work.
In this guide, we’ll examine some of the best AR glasses available and discuss the benefits and challenges of this technology. We'll also investigate how AR glasses can serve as viable alternatives to monitors, examine some of the best AR gasses available, and discuss the benefits and challenges of this technology.
Let’s dive right in!
At a glance:
How Can You Use AR Monitors?
Let’s take a deeper look into how AR glasses can transform your workspace by replacing your traditional computer monitors:
Projection of Virtual Screens
One of the main functions of AR smart glasses technology is the ability to project virtual screens in front of your regular field of vision, functionally acting as an AR monitor.
These screens can be as large or small as needed and placed anywhere in your surroundings. Advanced optics and micro-display technology create high-resolution images.
Whether you need a small window for a quick reference or a large, expansive display for detailed work, AR glasses allow you to adjust the sizes of your virtual screens to fit your needs.
Screens can be placed at any angle or distance within your field of view. You can also open multiple virtual screens simultaneously, which is excellent for multitasking.
Integration with Computing Devices
Use wired and wireless connections to integrate your AR glasses seamlessly with various devices, including PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Many AR glasses come with USB-C or HDMI ports, allowing direct connection to your devices. This type of connection often provides a stable and high-quality display, essential for tasks that require precise visuals like graphic design or video editing.
Wireless integration is excellent for mobility and convenience. Technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow your AR glasses to connect to your devices without extra cables. This wireless capability is handy for remote work or moving between different locations.
Interactive Experience
AR glasses can detect hand movements and gestures using built-in sensors. Users can interact with virtual screens by swiping, tapping, or pinching in the air, similar to how we already use touch screens.
Many AR glasses come equipped with voice recognition technology. Users can use voice commands to open applications, navigate menus, or even dictate text. This hands-free interaction is convenient and helps users be more productive.
AR glasses can also be paired with traditional peripherals like keyboards, mice, and other accessories. This pairing allows users to maintain familiar workflows while enjoying the benefits of a virtual workspace.
Some AR systems also support virtual keyboards and mice, which are projected into the user’s view and controlled through gestures.
Portability and Ergonomics
One of AR glasses' standout features is their portability. Unlike traditional monitors, which are bulky and fixed in one place, AR glasses are lightweight and can be worn anywhere.
Traditional monitors can cause neck and eye strain if not positioned correctly. AR glasses address this issue by allowing users to adjust the position and angle of their virtual screens. You can set the screens at eye level, reducing the need to look up or down, which promotes better posture and reduces the risk of strain-related injuries.
And you can take that ergonomic workspace anywhere. AR glasses provide a consistent and portable workspace for professionals who work remotely or travel frequently. You can carry your entire virtual desktop in your bag, set it up anywhere, and start working without needing multiple monitors or large desks.
Enhancing Productivity
The ability to replace traditional monitors with AR glasses can significantly enhance productivity. Here are a few ways AR glasses can transform your work habits:
With multiple virtual screens available, you can switch between tasks quickly and efficiently, which is ideal for effective multitasking.
In addition, users can better concentrate on their tasks in a virtual workspace free from physical distractions. Accessing information while seeing your surroundings means you can jump between physical files and digital data and resources without breaking your workflow.
Collaboration and Communication
Instead of gathering around a physical screen for meetings, users can participate in virtual discussions with screens positioned wherever convenient. This setup allows for more natural interaction and viewing of meeting materials without switching between tabs or screens.
Colleagues can share screens, annotate documents, and provide visual feedback directly within the virtual workspace. This capability is handy for design teams, engineers, and other professionals who rely on visual collaboration.
Beyond simply replacing monitors, AR glasses can integrate augmented reality applications into the workspace. For example, architects and engineers can visualize 3D models within their physical surroundings, providing a more intuitive understanding of complex designs.
Best AR Glasses to Replace Your Monitors
Top Pick: MyW Smart Sunglasses
At MyW, we’re proud to be a leading player in the AR glasses market, offering a product specifically designed to replace traditional monitors.
Our MyW AR glasses boast a high-resolution display that ensures crisp and clear visuals. This makes them ideal for productivity tasks that require detailed screen work, such as graphic design, video editing, and software development.
With a wide field of view, users can enjoy an immersive experience that rivals the best multiple-monitor setup. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking, allowing users to open several virtual desktops simultaneously.
Designed with comfort in mind, MyW AR glasses are lightweight and feature adjustable nose pads and temple tips. These ensure a snug fit for prolonged use without causing discomfort.
The glasses offer versatile connectivity options, including wireless and wired connections, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, from PCs and laptops to smartphones and tablets.
Our MyW AR glasses sport a highly customizable interface, allowing users to tailor their virtual workspaces to their specific needs. This interface includes the ability to adjust screen size, position, and orientation with ease.
Learn more about MyW AR glasses
XREAL Air AR Glasses
XREAL, formerly known as Nreal, has made significant waves in the AR industry with its Air AR glasses. These glasses are designed to provide an exceptional augmented reality experience, suitable for replacing physical screens.
XREAL Air AR glasses are among the lightest XR glasses on the market, so they are comfortable to wear for extended periods. Their sleek and stylish design also ensures they don’t stand out as bulky tech gadgets. They can even be fitted with prescription lenses.
These glasses are compatible with various devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, and Android phones. However, they’re explicitly designed for gaming and can connect to multiple gaming devices. Use these smart glasses to play games on your Steam Deck, PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
Featuring OLED displays, XREAL Air AR glasses offer vibrant colors and deep contrasts, ensuring that virtual screens are visually stunning. A rapid refresh rate further enhances the viewing experience, making it smooth and responsive.
The interface offered on XREAL Air AR glasses is intuitive and easy to navigate. Users can effortlessly switch between virtual monitors, adjust their sizes, and move them around to create an optimal workspace layout.
For even more functionality, the XREAL Beam accessory acts as a wireless adapter, greatly enhancing the portability and convenience of XREAL Air AR glasses.
Learn more about XREAL Air AR Glasses
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
In collaboration with Meta (Facebook’s parent company), Ray-Ban has launched Meta Smart Glasses. These glasses combine the iconic Ray-Ban design with advanced AR computer glasses capabilities, offering a unique blend of style and functionality.
One of the most striking features of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is their design. They look just like regular, unassuming sunglasses, making them an excellent choice for users who prefer a discreet AR experience.
These smart glasses have integrated cameras and speakers, enabling users to capture photos and videos, listen to audio, and make calls. This integration enhances the overall user experience by combining multiple functionalities into one device.
While less advanced in terms of display technology than some other AR glasses, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses offer basic AR capabilities. Users can receive notifications, access navigation, and use voice assistants without taking out their phones.
These glasses are designed to be user-friendly. They have simple touch controls on the frames and seamless integration with Meta’s AR platform, making them accessible — even to users new to AR technology.
With their decent battery life, these glasses can be used throughout the day without frequent recharging. This longevity is crucial for users who intend to replace their monitors and rely on the glasses for extended periods.
Learn more about Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
Conclusion
The advent of AR monitor glasses as potential replacements for traditional monitors marks a significant shift in how we interact with digital content. These devices offer many benefits, including portability, flexibility, and immersive experiences that traditional monitors cannot match.
Among the top contenders in the market, MyW AR glasses stand out for their high-resolution display, wide field of view, and advanced connectivity options.
XREAL Air AR glasses offer a lightweight and stylish design, impressive display technology, and the added convenience of the XREAL Beam accessory.
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses provide a unique blend of style and functionality. They have an unassuming design and integrated cameras and audio.
As AR technology continues to evolve, we can expect further improvements in these devices, making them even more viable as replacements for traditional monitors. Whether for work, entertainment, or creative pursuits, AR glasses are poised to revolutionize how we experience and interact with the digital world.