Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses Review: Promising Hardware, Yet Software Lags Behind
Augmented reality (AR) is evolving from a distant dream into a practical resource for entertainment, productivity, and more. Rokid, established in 2014, has ventured further into this domain with the Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses. These lightweight, feature-rich glasses are paired with their companion device, the Station 2 remote, which intends to provide a holistic AR experience. But do they truly fulfill their promise? Let’s examine the design, hardware, software, and overall usability to assess how these glasses compare.
Design: Lightweight and Stylish, but Clearly AR
A Closer Look at the Construction
The Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses are crafted to seamlessly fit into everyday life with their lightweight (75g) and understated matte black appearance. However, while the design is discreet from certain perspectives, anyone facing you directly will instantly identify them as AR glasses. Their plastic build contributes to the lightweight sensation, yet it may raise concerns about long-term durability for some users.
Comfort and Customization
The glasses come with adjustable focus wheels for myopia correction, accommodating users with prescriptions ranging from 0.00 D to -6.00 D. Built-in buttons for volume and brightness adjustments enable quick access to vital controls. Overall, the design effectively balances practicality with style, although it might not completely avoid the “gadget on your face” perception.
Hardware Features: Strong Foundation for AR
Glasses Hardware Specifications
The Rokid Max 2 glasses boast impressive features packed into their lightweight design. Key specifications include a 1200P resolution per eye, a 90Hz refresh rate, 600 nits of brightness, and a 50-degree field of view. These specs provide a solid visual experience, whether enjoying videos in Theater Mode or browsing the internet in Reading Mode.
Station 2 Remote: A Mixed Result
The Station 2 remote, which powers the glasses, functions as a mini-computer. It operates on Rokid’s proprietary YodaOS, features 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 5000mAh battery. The touch-sensitive panel on the device allows for intuitive navigation, and its compatibility with Bluetooth peripherals like a mouse or keyboard adds flexibility. However, the limited app store and occasional fan noise during multitasking indicate that the Station 2 is more suited for light media consumption than intensive productivity tasks.
Software: A Developmental Journey
User Experience and App Landscape
The Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses depend significantly on the Station 2 for their software experience. Regrettably, the app ecosystem remains in its early stages, with a narrow range of apps available for download. Although the OS is smooth and user-friendly, the insufficient software support limits the glasses’ overall utility.
Applications like Pinterest and YouTube thrive in the immersive AR environment, but the glasses lack the necessary capabilities for productivity. For instance, while Chrome is pre-installed, it is unsupported, highlighting a missed opportunity. Users can connect the glasses to their devices via USB-C to mirror displays or create additional virtual screens, yet this integration doesn’t elevate the experience beyond conventional setups.
Use Cases: Enjoyable for Media, Limited for Work
Entertainment and Immersion
One of the notable aspects of the Rokid Max 2 is its ability to simulate a screen size of up to 300 inches in Theater Mode. This feature enhances video watching, gaming, and interacting with AR-enhanced apps, making it an enjoyable gadget for casual users.
Work: Areas for Growth
Even though the glasses can mirror screens from iPhones, iPads, or MacBooks for extended use, reliance on the Station 2 remote hampers their efficiency for professional purposes. The glasses do not significantly improve workflows or multitasking abilities, making it difficult to justify their price for productivity-focused users.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Overview
Pros:
- Lightweight and stylish design
- Engaging AR experience for media viewing
- Compatible with Bluetooth devices
Cons:
- Limited app ecosystem and software capabilities
- Inadequate integration with established platforms like Apple
- Station 2 remote is challenged by intense multitasking
Conclusion: A Hopeful Beginning, but Not Quite There Yet
The Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses hold potential, especially with their hardware performance and immersive media capabilities. Nevertheless, the limited app ecosystem and dependency on the Station 2 remote for software functionality hinder their impact in the AR landscape. As a product backed by Kickstarter, there is optimism that future updates might rectify these issues. At present, the Rokid Max 2 is an interesting device for AR enthusiasts, but it falls short of rivaling established competitors in the AR/VR arena.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions About the Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses
Q1: Can the Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses substitute a traditional monitor?
A: The glasses can mirror your device or function as an additional virtual display, but they are not optimized for productivity tasks. They are preferable for casual media enjoyment.
Q2: Are the Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses compatible with Apple devices such as iPhones or MacBooks?
A: Yes, they can connect to Apple devices via USB-C. Nonetheless, the integration does not significantly enhance the user experience compared to standard setups.
Q3: How does the Station 2 remote perform in demanding multitasking scenarios?
A: The Station 2 remote faces difficulties with heavy multitasking, with increased fan noise and lagging performance. It is better suited for light media and entertainment use.
Q4: What apps are available on the Rokid Max 2’s app store?
A: The app store is limited, featuring apps like Pinterest, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. Popular apps like Chrome are pre-installed but lack support.
Q5: How does the AR experience enhance media consumption?
A: The AR glasses provide an immersive experience with a virtual screen size of up to 300 inches in Theater Mode. Applications like YouTube and Pinterest benefit from improved visuals.
Q6: Are these glasses comfortable for prolonged wear?
A: Yes, the lightweight design and adjustable myopia correction provide comfort for extended use. However, the plastic build may not feel particularly premium.
Q7: Where can I buy the Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses?
A: The glasses are available through late pledges on Kickstarter. Check the campaign for updates regarding pricing and availability.
