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Compared to the OpenAR1.0 glasses released in 2022, the OpenAR2.0 glasses are more user-friendly and stylish than before, and they come with many enhanced features. The structure of the glasses is also more modular, making it easier to replace individual components with better – although more expensive – ones.

“AR glasses will replace smartphones as an interface for using the Internet, or at least this is believed by many manufacturers of consumer electronics. However, their entry into the market is slowed down by a typical challenge: without AR glasses, there are no app developers, and without app developers, there is no market for AR glasses,” says Professor Jyrki Saarinen from the Center for Photonics Sciences at the 91����.

“To speed up the development of AR technology, we wanted to design affordable AR glasses that are accessible to everyone – just like was done with virtual glasses made of cardboard and a smartphone some 10 years ago. With the OpenAR glasses, anyone can explore the opportunities of augmented reality. Throughout the process, the aim has been to keep the costs very low.”

The development of the OpenAR glasses continues, and next, we can expect the integration of, e.g., thermal camera images and the first game into the glasses, as well as Bluetooth connectivity to smartphones. More apps will also become available, as new users around the world have the opportunity to develop theOpenAR concept.

“Anyone can download the DIY instructions from our website, order the supplies from an online store and print the mechanical parts with a 3D printer,” says Ville Päivinen, who has been involved in the development of the OpenAR2.0 glasses.

The OpenAR2.0 glasses will be showcased at the Optics and Photonics Days (OPD) at Oulu Music Centre on 4–5 June 2025.

More information: 

Professor Jyrki Saarinen, jyrki.saarinen@uef.fi, tel. 050 595 4348