Augmented reality (AR) glasses pioneer Xreal unveiled an upgraded entry-level product at the 2026 CES exhibition. The latest hardware, named the 1S, is an enhancement based on the previous Xreal One glasses. In a statement released last Sunday, the company announced that the new model increases the video resolution from 1080p to 1200p, delivering a sharper and more detailed visual experience. Furthermore, the new glasses feature a blue exterior, a departure from the company's standard black frames used in the past.

Notably, Xreal has reduced the price compared to the previous generation: the 1S is priced at $449, while the earlier version retailed for $499. Xreal glasses can project a large augmented reality display within the user's field of view. The product can be directly connected to smartphones, laptops, and some handheld gaming devices, meaning users do not need to worry about an additional battery pack.

However, compatibility with the Nintendo Switch 2 is more complex. The gaming giant Nintendo has restricted most unauthorized third-party devices from directly accessing the console's video output port. To address this issue, Xreal simultaneously introduced a $99 accessory called the Neo. This is a two-in-one device that combines an external battery pack with a video hub.

By connecting Nintendo's hybrid gaming console to the Neo, the device can successfully transmit the video signal to the 1S glasses, enabling users to enjoy a private gaming experience while on the go. Xreal also indicated, however, that Nintendo might block this workaround in the future. The company stated that the Neo's price will increase to $119 after February 4th.

Xreal's glasses bear a closer resemblance to ordinary eyeglasses in appearance but do not offer the enclosed immersion or field of view provided by head-mounted devices like Apple's (AAPL.US) Vision Pro or Samsung's Galaxy XR; the overall video quality also cannot be compared to these high-end headsets. Nevertheless, Xreal glasses are smaller, more portable, and significantly more affordable.

Currently, Xreal is collaborating with Google (GOOGL.US) on Project Aura, a more advanced, standalone AR glasses that will run on Google's Android XR operating system supported by an external battery pack. However, more cost-effective products like the 1S remain a crucial component of Xreal's product strategy.

Google has stated that the first smart glasses built around its Gemini AI assistant will ship this year, but a formal release date for Project Aura products has not been announced. Additionally, previous reports indicated that Apple is expected to release its first smart glasses as early as this year.