It once sparked a lot of discussion in the AR field.Magic LeapEarlier, a prototype of smart glasses running Google's Android XR operating system was unveiled, and an extension was announced.Existing partnerships with GoogleMagic Leap stated that these glasses were created as a "reference design for the Android XR ecosystem".
It resembles existing smart glasses in appearance and integrates Magic Leap optics with Google Raxium technology.
In terms of appearance, this prototype is similar to other modern smart glasses on the market, with a relatively thick frame to house electronic components, and appears to have a camera lens on the left side.
Magic Leap did not reveal many hardware details, only stating that "by combining Magic Leap's own waveguides and optical technology with Google's Raxium microLED light engine, the two companies are developing display technology to make all-weather, wearable AR devices more feasible."
The operating system used in this device is, of course, Google's Android XR. The fact that this smart glasses prototype is positioned as a "reference design" suggests that Magic Leap may want to license its hardware technology to other brands to jointly expand the Android XR ecosystem.
After experiencing twists and turns, Magic Leap shifted from B2C to B2B and is now seeking a new path.
Magic Leap's development in recent years has been full of ups and downs. The company initially launched an ambitious AR headset for the consumer market, but the market response was dismal (reportedly only 6000 units were sold in six months). Subsequently, Magic Leap made a major adjustment to its strategy, shifting its focus to the enterprise market, and launched Magic Leap 2 in 2022.
However, the company's operational challenges do not seem to be over. In July of this year, Magic Leap announced it would lay off 75 employees (mainly in the sales and marketing teams), which was seen as a signal that its strategy was shifting back towards "technology licensing".
Several months prior, Magic Leap announced an agreement with Google to "advance the potential of XR technology." Late last year, reports indicated that Google had brought in approximately 100 Magic Leap employees to participate in the Android XR project.
