At AWE 2025, Qualcomm unveiled its groundbreaking Snapdragon AR1 Plus Gen 1 chip designed for smart glasses, which is set to revolutionize the user experience in augmented reality. The new chip is capable of executing a local, on-device AI model, specifically the Llama 3.2, which boasts one billion parameters and a 128K token context. This advancement enables smart glasses to operate independently of smartphones, allowing for seamless interactions and contextual awareness without relying on cloud connectivity. Qualcomm’s VP of XR, Ziad Asghar, demonstrated the technology using TCL RayNeo X3 Pro AR glasses, showcasing the ability to converse with AI through a small language model while offline.
The Snapdragon AR1 Plus Gen 1 chip significantly improves power efficiency and enhances photo capture capabilities, reducing the time taken to deliver AI-generated responses to a mere 1.2 seconds. While these smart glasses are not yet fully standalone due to the lack of cellular support and the occasional need for external assistance, they bring us closer to the next generation of AR technology, elevating them beyond simple Bluetooth accessories. Qualcomm also highlighted how the new chipset reduces the height of the glasses’ temple by 20%, blending more seamlessly with traditional eyewear styles. Additional improvements include better image quality and enhanced computer vision capabilities, contributing to a more immersive user experience.
Moreover, Qualcomm is exploring the integration of smart rings as controllers for AR glasses, offering gesture control, motion tracking, and health monitoring functionalities. This innovation is expected to provide new input modalities that could enhance user interactions significantly. While Qualcomm has not specified all potential device collaborations, it has hinted that the Snapdragon AR1+ Gen 1 will be utilized in the RayNeo X3 Pro and possibly other upcoming smart glasses.