Qualcomm introduces the next generation of XR and AR platforms to enable immersive experiences and thinner devices

     Qualcomm Technologies announced the launch of two new spatial computing platforms - the second-generation Snapdragon XR2 and the first-generation Snapdragon AR1 - that will support the creation of the next generation of leading MR, VR and smart glasses devices. Snapdragon XR2 Platform 2: This platform integrates top-of-the-line MR And VR technologies into a single chip architecture to unlock a whole new level of immersion in thinner, more comfortable headsets without the need for an external battery pack.

     The platform is designed to create a stay-free experience with stunning visuals and fully immersive audio, allowing users to blend virtual content with their physical surroundings and seamlessly switch between MR And VR experiences. The first generation Snapdragon AR1 platform: This platform is uniquely optimized for heat dissipation limitations in terms of power consumption to support the creation of stylish, lightweight smart glasses with a great experience.

     The platform can support shooting, sharing or live streaming directly from the side of the glasses to help users free their hands. Not only that, end-side AI can also provide personal assistant experiences such as sound enhancement, visual search, and real-time translation. In addition, the platform supports visual head-up display, allowing content consumption, including video, to seamlessly integrate with the user's field of view.

     The convergence of physical and virtual Spaces presents significant opportunities for Qualcomm Technologies. The two next-generation platforms have been developed in close collaboration with Meta and will be first commercially available on Meta devices in 2023: Meta Quest 3 will be powered by the second-generation Snapdragon XR2 platform, and Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses series will be powered by the first-generation Snapdragon AR1 platform. Snapdragon has been favored by leading XR companies, and more devices from other vendors will be launched in 2024.

     Andrew Bosworth (Boz), Chief Technology Officer and Head of Reality Labs at Meta, said: "Meta is committed to developing future technologies for MR And smart glasses, and creating foundational innovations to enable our vision for AR glasses. Building a future-proof computing platform requires working with industry-leading partners, and our long-standing collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies plays a key role in this. Together with Qualcomm Technologies, we are defining the next generation of technologies, enabling huge breakthroughs in power consumption, performance and AI. The latest Snapdragon second generation XR2 and first generation Snapdragon AR1 platforms, which will enable Meta Quest 3 and the next generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, are another great collaboration that we look forward to making available to users around the world."

     Hugo Swart, vice president and general manager of XR Business at Qualcomm Technologies, said: "Qualcomm Technologies is always committed to building technologies and solutions that transform the future of computing. The second-generation Snapdragon XR2 and first-generation Snapdragon AR1 platforms are our latest dedicated processors designed to power the next generation of MR And VR devices as well as stylish smart glasses for everyone. The first commercial availability of these two platforms on Meta devices brings us one step closer to our shared vision of creating affordable, top-of-the-line XR all-in-one and smart glasses products for users around the world."