XREAL's upcoming glasses and hub may improve Nintendo Switch 2's functionality.
The new 1S glasses borrow a fan-favorite feature from the competition.
XREAL, a company well-known in the augmented reality industry, has announced the XREAL 1S, an updated version of its entry-level wearable device aimed at gamers who use handheld consoles. The new model features an increased resolution of 1200p, native 2D to 3D conversion, and a 16:10 aspect ratio.
The company also introduced the XREAL NEO, a $99 device that functions as both a DisplayPort hub and a 10,000 mAh power bank. This device is designed to manage both video and power, enhancing Nintendo Switch gameplay and enabling longer gaming sessions without draining the console's battery.
XREAL 1S Specifications:
Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels per eye
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Field of View: 52 degrees
Aspect Ratio: 16:10
Brightness: Up to 700 nits
Price: $449
This update marks a significant response from XREAL to the hardware capabilities of current handheld devices. Previously, the Viture Pro XR and other competitors had an advantage with features like electronic dimming and better support for 16:10 aspect ratios, which are common on devices like the Steam Deck.
With the 1S, XREAL is catching up by adopting a 16:10 aspect ratio, which eliminates the black bars or stretching seen on older 16:9 models when connected to devices like the Steam Deck or ROG Ally. The addition of electronic dimming removes the need for a separate plastic lens cover.
The NEO hub is also notable because it addresses a potential problem with the Nintendo Switch 2. Reports suggest that Nintendo has restricted video output on its new console, but this hub is equipped to bypass this restriction, ensuring compatibility with AR glasses.
While the 1S glasses offer improved specifications, the NEO hub may prove to be exceptionally useful. A common issue with AR glasses is the need for multiple adapters to charge a phone or Steam Deck while using the glasses. A dedicated battery bank that also serves as a video hub provides a more streamlined solution.
Priced at $449, the glasses are competitively positioned. Current owners of the original XREAL Air or the ONE Pro might not find the upgrade essential unless they specifically need the additional vertical resolution. However, for those considering their first AR glasses for travel or Steam Deck use, the 1S includes previously missing features.
A full review will be available soon.