The Magic of AI Smart Glasses: A Deep Dive into Rokid Glasses' Teleprompter

In recent days, a video of an unassuming programmer with a呆萌 (cute and clueless) look, sporting a bit of stubble, and wearing a pair of AI smart glasses that can display teleprompter text during a speech has gone viral. This programmer, who is none other than Misa, the founder of Rokid, showcased the capabilities of Rokid Glasses at the Yuhang District High-Quality Economic Development Conference. The video not only garnered widespread media attention but also effectively advertised the teleprompter function of AI smart glasses, which has now become a hot topic.

Misa's marketing prowess is evident in his ability to turn a government conference into a product showcase. Those familiar with him know that he has an extraordinary passion for his products and can turn any meeting into a sales opportunity. This is not the first time Rokid has made waves; during the recent CES conference, Rokid Glasses also gained significant attention for their translation function, earning praise from international media and becoming one of the top AI smart glasses at the event.

While the teleprompter and translation functions may not be new to AI smart glasses, Rokid has managed to stand out by focusing on creating a wide range of application scenarios. Their official video channel has showcased various uses, including AI Q&A, AI health management, AI problem-solving, AI translation, Alipay voiceprint payment, AI coffee ordering, AI ride-hailing, navigation, music with lyrics display, teleprompter, reading, meeting recording, schedule management, navigation, reading display, DingTalk message replies, DingTalk AA收款 (group payment), and mobile message notifications.

The display functionality of AI smart glasses, however, comes at a higher cost compared to non-display versions. According to a report by Weishen, the comprehensive hardware cost of Xiaomi's AI smart glasses is approximately $177.5, which translates to around 1260 yuan after tax (excluding mold fees, defects, and transportation losses). Rokid's display uses JBD's MicroLED and Guangzhou's one-drag-two single green light waveguide, representing one of the most advanced mass-producible single-color waveguide display solutions. The inclusion of JBD's "Hummingbird Mini II" monochrome light engine and Guangzhou Semiconductor's waveguide lenses significantly increases the technical complexity and cost, yet Rokid Glasses offers a surprisingly affordable price of 2499 yuan (2299 yuan with the purchase of an F code).

Despite the advantages, waveguide-based AI smart glasses do face challenges such as light leakage and rainbow patterns. It remains to be seen how well Rokid Glasses will address these issues in their mass-produced units. Additionally, display functionality can impact battery life, which is a consideration for users.

Rokid Glasses currently stands as the world's first and only lightweight AI smart glasses with both shooting and display capabilities. In the competitive landscape of AI smart glasses, Rokid has managed to differentiate itself by focusing on specific user groups, such as those in need of translation, teleprompter functions, and individuals with hearing or visual impairments. If Rokid can continue to refine the user experience and target these niche markets effectively, there is significant potential for growth.

As competitors like Xiaomi and over 70 other manufacturers enter the market, the key to success will be in creating unique value propositions and addressing the specific needs of different user segments. Rokid's approach to combining advanced technology with practical applications sets a strong example for the industry, and it will be interesting to see how the market evolves in the coming years.