Google Glass left behind in AR, says Lux Research
Although most deployments are still in pilot programs, the use cases can broadly be classified into three core functions: accessing information, real-time communication, and documentation.
They found the ODG R-7 from Californian company Osterhout Design Group (ODG) to be the best all-around device. Only five glasses meet minimum performance requirements across all three broad functions. Of them, Osterhout Design Group’s ODG R-7 stands out because it is the only one on the market that does not need a wired controller and meets industrial standards for hazardous environments.
Sony’s SmartEyeglass stands out for customer service. SmartEyeglass is the top performer for use in customer service and quality control, fulfilling two of the three broad functions – information access and real-time communication – since it is light and small, and competitively priced. Sony’s product comes a close second for warehousing, assembly and installation, behind Meta-1, which is not yet on the market.
According to the market research firm, Google Glass is in the game only for real-time communication. Google Glass is a truly viable option only in real-time communication applications such as online sales support. Even there it faces competitors like Vuzix, which is the best fit in this segment – light enough to be worn all day and meeting the need for live video streaming.
Although Google Glass initially set the standard in smart glasses, its target market rapidly shifted from consumer to industrial and it may no longer hold as a standard in more demanding environments.
“As next-generation glasses such as Epson’s Moverio BT-2000 and Meta Pro emerge, the field will become even more competitive, ending a period of high premiums for hardware. Software and service will become the primary way to maintain margins,” explains Tony Sun, Lux Research Analyst and lead author of the report.
“Apple’s impact on the market will also soon be visible, as it builds on the acquisition of Metaio, a leading augmented reality software developer,” he added.
Find more about the report: Better Than Google Glass: Finding the Right Smart Glasses for Enterprise”
Visit Lux Research at www.luxresearchinc.com
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