Qualcomm Technologies announced two new spatial computing platforms – Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 – that will enable the next generation of mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR) and smart glasses devices.
Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 Platform: Brings premium MR and VR technology into a single-chip architecture to unlock next-level immersive experiences in thinner, more comfortable headsets that don't require an external battery.
Designed to deliver a lag-free experience with breathtaking visuals and fully immersive sound, the platform allows users to combine virtual content with their physical environment and seamlessly transition between MR and VR experiences.
Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 Platform: Uniquely designed with power optimizations for a thermal budget to enable stylish, lightweight smart glasses that deliver an unparalleled experience.
The platform allows the user to capture, share or live stream hands-free, directly from the glasses. Additionally, on-device AI enables personal assistant experiences such as improved audio quality, visual search, and real-time translation. Lastly, support for a visual heads-up display can enable the consumption of content, including video, that seamlessly integrates into users' field of vision.
The merging of physical and digital spaces is a significant opportunity for Qualcomm Technologies. These next-generation platforms were developed in close collaboration with Meta and will be commercially released on Meta devices in 2023: Meta Quest 3 with Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses collection with Snapdragon AR1 platform. With other manufacturers expected to follow next year, major XR players continue to choose Snapdragon as their platform of choice.
“At Meta, we are focused on developing the technologies of the future in mixed reality and smart glasses, as well as the fundamental innovations that will one day drive our vision for AR glasses,” said Andrew “Boz” Bosworth, Meta CTO and head of AR Labs. Reality. “Building this future computing platform requires an industry-leading partner and this is where our long-standing collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies is critical. Together, we are defining next-generation technologies that deliver breakthroughs in power, performance and AI.”
“The Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon AR1 platforms are the latest processors purpose-built to power the next generation of MR and VR devices and stylish smart glasses for everyone,” added Hugo Swart, vice president and general manager of XR, Qualcomm Technologies . “The commercial debut of these two platforms with Meta is another step forward in realizing our joint vision – unlocking premium multi-functional XR devices and smart glasses that are affordable for users around the world.”
