Key Takeaways

  • Even Realities launches G2 smart glasses without cameras.
  • Designed for productivity, featuring a neon-style heads-up display.
  • Improved connectivity and battery life compared to the previous model.
  • Targeted at professionals in meetings and multilingual environments.

Introduction to G2 Smart Glasses

In recent years, tech leaders have suggested that smart glasses could become the next major interface for consumer devices. However, many current models still depend heavily on smartphones for functionality. The G2 smart glasses from Even Realities follow this trend, offering a sleek design with a neon-style heads-up display visible in various lighting conditions, but they still require a phone connection, which can sometimes be unreliable.

A Different Approach

Unlike competitors such as Meta, Even Realities has opted for a monochrome heads-up display that presents information in green, resembling a neon sign. Notably, the G2 lacks cameras and speakers, a deliberate choice aimed at enhancing productivity without the concern of recording those nearby.

Improvements Over Previous Models

The G2 is the successor to the G1 model, boasting several enhancements. It features a brighter display rated at 1,200 nits compared to the G1’s 1,000 nits, and it has quadrupled the number of microphones from two to four. Additionally, the display area is 75% larger and offers a smoother 60Hz refresh rate, a significant upgrade from the G1’s 20Hz.

Connectivity and Usability

During my usage of the G2, I noticed substantial improvements in connectivity with the accompanying app. Initially, the glasses frequently disconnected, but subsequent updates resolved these issues. The G2 is designed for professionals who frequently attend meetings, present information, or travel to regions with diverse languages.

Design and Comfort

The G2 glasses are lightweight at 35 grams, constructed from a magnesium alloy frame and titanium alloy temples, making them comfortable for extended wear. Although I primarily work from home and didn’t need to wear them all day, the UV protection in the lenses makes them suitable for outdoor use.

Battery Life and Charging

Even Realities claims that the G2’s battery can last up to two days on a single charge under typical usage. The glasses come with a protective case that can recharge them up to seven times before needing to be plugged in. While I didn’t test the full two-day claim, the battery life was sufficient for my needs.

Features and Functionality

The G2 glasses serve as a companion for managing schedules, reminders, and notes. Users can activate them by tapping the stem controls, which display a dashboard with upcoming meetings, stock updates, and news. The glasses can also show real-time phone notifications, although the reliability of this feature can vary.

Long-pressing the temple control opens a menu with functions such as notifications, translation, teleprompting, to-do lists, and navigation. The translation feature allows users to converse in different languages, which I found effective during interactions with speakers of Chinese, French, and Spanish. However, the navigation feature requires setting routes through the Even Realities app, which has accuracy issues that need addressing.

The Conversate feature initially provided live transcripts of conversations but has since been enhanced to include prep notes, allowing users to add context for meetings. This feature proved useful during discussions, displaying relevant information as needed.

Voice Assistant and Performance

The built-in assistant, Even AI, is activated by a wake word, allowing users to ask questions or add tasks to their lists. However, it often misinterpreted commands, and responses were lengthy, making it difficult to navigate. Despite having four microphones, the assistant struggled with noise cancellation in outdoor settings.

Additional Accessories

Even Realities also introduced the R1 ring, designed to control the glasses through touch. While it functions well, I found it unnecessary since the glasses’ touch controls suffice. The ring includes health tracking features, but its high price of $249 may deter potential buyers.

Market Position

The G2 smart glasses are priced at $599 and offer solid hardware in a lightweight design. While Even Realities is working on enhancing app support for customization, the current offerings may not compel users to reach for the glasses regularly. The absence of cameras and speakers aligns with the company’s focus on productivity, but further development of first-party software is essential for broader appeal.