At the recent Baidu World Conference in 2024, Baidu introduced its Xiaodu AI Glasses, heralded as the “first AI glasses in the world featuring a native Chinese language model.” Developed by Baidu’s hardware division, Xiaodu Technology, these glasses highlight Baidu’s sophisticated Ernie language model. They aim to blend AI technology into wearable devices specifically for Chinese-speaking users, going up against the well-known Ray-Bans by Meta.
Specifications
Weighing in at only 45 grams, the Xiaodu AI Glasses are outfitted with a 16MP ultra-wide-angle camera that includes AI stabilization, allowing for smooth, stable photographs from a first-person viewpoint. Moreover, they come with a four-microphone setup designed to capture sound effectively and have open-ear anti-leakage speakers for clear audio delivery. This design enables users to have an immersive, hands-free experience.
The glasses boast six main features: real-time Q&A via walk-and-ask inquiries, calorie detection, object identification through an encyclopedia function, audio-visual translation, and smart reminders. Additionally, they include AI anti-shake technology for both photos and videos, allowing users to document their adventures effortlessly.
Battery Life and Operating System
When it comes to battery performance, the Xiaodu AI Glasses can last up to 56 hours on standby and provide over 5 hours of continuous audio playback. With rapid-charging capabilities, they can be fully charged in just 30 minutes, making them convenient for everyday use. These glasses operate on the DuerOS AI native system and are expected to integrate smoothly with popular Baidu applications like Baidu Maps and Baike, further enriching the user experience with Baidu’s offerings.
Pricing & Availability
Baidu has announced that the Xiaodu AI Glasses will officially be available in the first half of 2025, with a projected retail price of under 2,100 yuan (around $290).
In other news, Apple has initiated a project for smart glasses, codenamed “Atlas.” This initiative aims to revolutionize wearable technology by providing a genuine AR experience. Spearheaded by Apple’s Product Systems Quality team, the project is currently in a research phase, gathering feedback from internal focus groups. Apple intends to create a lightweight, fashionable model that will initially work with the iPhone, utilizing its processing power, with the long-term vision of developing fully standalone smart glasses. Nevertheless, due to stringent quality standards, the launch might be delayed for up to five years. In the meantime, Apple is planning to unveil the Vision Pro 2 by 2025 or early 2026, which will feature an enhanced M5 chip for better AR functionalities.
