Smart glasses and smart rings are two of the hottest trends in wearable technology. At CES 2025, newcomer Halliday has combined these trends with AI, creating a unique product that caught MaagX’s attention. We spoke with Halliday’s co-founder, Carter Hou, to learn more.
Alt text: A photo of the Halliday AI Glasses, and company co-founder Carter Hou wearing them.
A Display-First Design
Unlike many other smart glasses, Halliday’s AI Glasses prioritize the display over a camera. They pair this display with a smart ring for control, creating a novel user experience. The company also focuses on a “proactive” AI assistant that anticipates user needs.
“We want to build smart glasses people would wear,” Hou told MaagX. He emphasized the importance of lightweight design (under 40 grams), long battery life, and a display for efficient information delivery.
Alt text: A render showing the Halliday AI Glasses and their compact design.
DigiWindow: Halliday’s Innovative Display Solution
Integrating a display into smart glasses presents technical challenges. Halliday avoids waveguide technology, opting instead for a small “optical module” within the frame that projects the equivalent of a 3.5-inch screen directly into the user’s eye. Hou claims this “DigiWindow” is brighter, more private, and more usable in various environments than waveguide displays. Its position can also be adjusted for optimal focus and orientation.
The Case Against a Camera
Alt text: A close-up render of the Halliday AI Glasses showcasing the frame design.
Halliday’s decision to omit a camera stems from privacy concerns and battery life optimization. The camera-less design also allows for a classic, lightweight frame weighing just 35 grams. With a background in eyewear, Halliday offers prescription lens options, further enhancing wearability. The battery is expected to last between eight and twelve hours and charges via a convenient USB-C connection.
Smart Ring Control
The included smart ring provides a unique control mechanism. Users navigate the glasses’ interface through swipes and taps on the ring’s trackpad-like surface. This innovative approach blends two wearable tech trends. Currently, the ring’s functionality is limited to controlling the glasses.
Alt text: A model wearing the Halliday AI Glasses and using the smart ring controller.
Proactive AI: A Controversial Feature
Halliday’s “proactive” AI listens to conversations and provides information on the display when deemed necessary. This feature raises ethical questions about privacy, especially given the absence of a camera, which was omitted for privacy reasons. Hou argues that the feature is optional and compares it to recording audio memos. He also acknowledges potential policy concerns and cost implications associated with constant AI processing.
Price, Availability, and Design
Alt text: The Halliday AI Glasses shown in various color options.
The AI Glasses will launch via Kickstarter around March 2025, priced at approximately $400 with early bird discounts and prescription lens options. A subscription model for the AI features is under consideration. Replacement smart rings will be available. Halliday is currently developing a sizing solution for the rings. The glasses feature adjustable nose pads and flexible arms for a comfortable fit. Three frame finishes will be offered initially.
A Promising Future for Smart Eyewear?
Alt text: The Halliday AI Glasses and smart ring displayed together.
Halliday’s AI Glasses stand out from the growing crowd of smart eyewear. The smart ring control and the focus on eyewear design are intriguing innovations. While the proactive AI raises concerns, the core offering of a discreet, useful display in a comfortable design holds significant promise. Beyond the controversial AI, the glasses offer features like AI translation, navigation, note-taking, notifications, quick replies, and even a teleprompter function. We’re eager to experience Halliday’s vision for the future of smart glasses firsthand.
