Now Available: Smart Glasses from Epson
Now Available: Smart Glasses from Epson
Epson has just announced that they are starting to ship their Moverio BT-200 for US$699.99 – less than half of what Google’s Glass is going for. The BT-200 boast a display in each lens, giving you an 80-inch perceived screen. A front-facing camera enables augmented reality applications, and the glasses are designed to allow for inserts so you can add prescription lens inserts if needed. Unlike Google Glass, the BT-200 doesn’t just focus on apps, software and augmented reality, but offers a VR-like experience as well, with stereoscopic 3D.
Another major difference is that the glasses aren't wireless, but connected by cable to a controller. This control unit supports Android 4.0, while Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity let you surf the net, play games, and check email from your BT-200. A built-in card slot supports up to 32GB microSD cards, and the control unit itself contains motion sensors and a textured touchpad for gesture support.
Epson is already working with enterprises and developers like APX Labs and Metaio to incorporate the BT-200's augmented reality capabilities to allow for use-cases like retail and wholesale supply chain tracking, surgical training for doctors in the operating room, and remote field service support for complex repair operations.
Sources: Epson, Market Watch