As part of the Project Aria research project, Meta recently announcedA smart glasses device called "Aria Gen 2", which will help Meta collect more environmental data and create more technologies related to augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
The Aria Gen 2 is similar in size to regular glasses, but with a noticeably thicker frame. It weighs approximately 75 grams and features a foldable design. The built-in battery provides approximately 6-8 hours of use. As part of a research project, the Aria Gen 2 will not become a commercially available product, but the technology behind it may be incorporated into future smart glasses.
Compared with the previous generation design, "Aria Gen 2" is equipped with RGB camera lenses, 6-degree-of-freedom SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) camera modules, as well as eye tracking cameras, spatial microphones, dynamic sensing elements, barometers, magnetometers, and GNSS global satellite navigation systems to collect data related to the wearer's environment.
In addition, the "Aria Gen 2" is equipped with a heart rate sensor module (PPG) for measuring heart rate, as well as a contact microphone for distinguishing between the wearer and the voices of passers-by. It can also use the Meta custom chip to simultaneously process positioning information, construct SLAM map content, eye movements, hand position and voice recognition.
Currently, "Aria Gen 2" can be used to collect environmental data and assist in building various computational models. For example, Meta and BMW are collaborating to use smart glasses to collect relevant data, thereby applying virtual vision technology to smart vehicle design. It can also be used to help the blind or partially sighted create more suitable indoor navigation assistance, or further accessibility assistance functions.
