Qualcomm Technologies announced the launch of two new spatial computing platforms — the second-generation Snapdragon XR2 and the first-generation Snapdragon AR1, which will support the creation of next-generation MR, VR and smart glasses devices.
According to Qualcomm’s official introduction, the second-generation Snapdragon XR2 platform offers a 2.5x increase in GPU performance, an 8x increase in AI performance per watt, a 50% increase in CPU power efficiency, support for up to 10 parallel cameras and sensors, and support for 3K x 3K displays, Snapdragon Unblocked Listening, Wi-Fi 7, and more.
The first-generation Snapdragon AR1 platform was designed specifically to optimize power consumption for thermal constraints and can be used in lightweight smart glasses.
The platform can support shooting, sharing or live streaming directly from the eyewear side of the device to help users free their hands. In addition, the terminal-side AI provides personal assistant experiences such as audio enhancement, visual search and real-time translation. In addition, the platform supports a visual flat display that allows content consumption, including video, to blend seamlessly with the user’s field of view.
The two next-generation platforms were developed in close collaboration with Meta and will be the first to be commercially unveiled on Meta’s devices in 2023, it is learned from Qualcomm’s official press release:
The Meta Quest 3 will be powered by the second-generation Snapdragon XR2 platform, and the Ray-Ban Meta line of smart glasses will be powered by the first-generation Snapdragon AR1 platform, with more devices from other manufacturers coming in 2024.