Solos smart specs: keeping athletes' eyes on the road

The first augmented reality (AR) sports specs have been released for sale. Designed to keep athletes focused on the road ahead while giving them all the information they need right before their eyes, the Solos AR smart glasses were first unveiled by wearable tech company Kopin at the CES consumer innovation conference earlier this year.

Built for cyclists, triathletes, runners and enthusiasts, Solos delivers critical information in a seamless, integrated fashion through sight and sound, said the company in a media statement. “Solos provides a more natural way of communicating data, that is safer and more immediate, keeping the athlete focused, present and fully aware. The glasses remove the need to look down, break stride and lose focus, allowing users to get the data they need... all through a heads-up pupil display.”

This pupil display, measuring less than 4mm in height, enables see-through and see-around vision while casting a large virtual screen that features high-resolution, full-colour graphics, including performance metrics and route mapping. Other features include integrated music and voice control, group communication, interchangeable lenses and an adjustable nose piece for added customisation.

"Solos lets me keep my head up to stay safe and enjoy the view with the data I need, where I want it. I've also started enjoying music and phone calls through the onboard speakers, while keeping my ears free and fully aware of my surroundings when I am out on the road," said Phil Gaimon, a Solos’ professional cyclist.

The Solos smart specs are compatible with iOS and Android smartphones and Android Wear 2.0 smartwatches, though at US$499 a pair, plus shipping fees, they don’t come cheap.