Jump to content

Vuzix: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
organized content
GreenC bot (talk | contribs)
Bots
2,517,471 edits
 
(29 intermediate revisions by 19 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|American multinational technology}}
{{more citations needed|date=July 2016}}
{{more citations needed|date=July 2016}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
Line 4: Line 5:
| logo =
| logo =
| type = [[Public company|Public]]
| type = [[Public company|Public]]
| traded_as = {{NASDAQ|VUZI}}<br>[[Russell 2000 Index|Russell 2000 Component]]
| traded_as = {{NASDAQ|VUZI}}<br />[[Russell 2000 Index|Russell 2000 Component]]
| genre =
| genre =
| foundation =
| foundation =
Line 16: Line 17:
| area_served =
| area_served =
| industry =
| industry =
| products = M100 Smart Glasses, M300 Smart Glasses, iWear Video Headphones
| products = M100 Smart Glasses, M300 Smart Glasses, M400 Smart Glasses, Blade Smart Glasses, iWear Video Headphones
| services =
| services =
| revenue =
| revenue =
| operating_income =
| operating_income =
| net_income =
| net_income =
| num_employees = 90<ref name="jan2021">{{cite web |title=Corporate Presentation Jan 2021 |url=https://d1io3yog0oux5.cloudfront.net/_3524e63af84d79ce93efcfc7a9d74dc6/vuzix/db/239/1938/pdf/January2021VuzixNeedhamPresentationwithvideolinks_16063790673.pdf}}</ref>
| num_employees = 45 total, 22 engineering staff
| parent =
| parent =
| divisions =
| divisions =
| subsid =
| subsid =
| owner = [[Intel]] (30%)
| owner = [[Intel]] (10%)<br />State Street KOMP ETF (12%)<ref name="jan2021" />
| caption =
| caption =
| homepage = {{URL|http://www.vuzix.com}}
| homepage = {{URL|http://www.vuzix.com}}
Line 32: Line 33:
}}
}}


'''Vuzix''' is an [[United States|American]] multinational [[technology]] firm headquartered in [[Rochester, New York]]. Founded in 1997 by Paul Travers, Vuzix is a supplier of wearable display technology, [[virtual reality]] and [[augmented reality]]. Vuzix manufactures and sells computer [[display device]]s and [[computer software|software]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vuzix.com/corporate/index.html |title=About Vuzix Corporation |access-date=2011-01-24 |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6Fl2DlsF3?url=http://www.vuzix.com/corporate/index.html |archive-date=2013-04-09 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Vuzix [[Head-mounted display|personal display devices]] are used for mobile and immersive [[augmented reality]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-20006750-235.html?tag=mncol |title=Augmented Reality edges closer to the mainstream - CNET News}}</ref> applications, such as [[3d computer graphics|3D gaming]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/The-Best-New-Technology |title=The Best New Technology - Oprah.com}}</ref> [[manufacturing]] training,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Vuzix-NS-Solutions-Corporation-Partner-Deliver-Augmented-Reality-Solutions-Manufacturing-1401246.htm |title=Vuzix and NS Solutions Corporation Partner to Deliver Augmented Reality Solutions for Manufacturing}}</ref> and [[Military technology and equipment|military]] tactical equipment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/26/us-navy-buys-into-smart-glasses-trend-in-deal-with-vuzix/|title=U.S. Navy buys into smart glasses trend in deal with Vuzix|website=VentureBeat|date=27 February 2014|access-date=2017-01-30}}</ref> On January 5, 2015, [[Intel]] acquired 30% of Vuzix's stock for $24.8 million.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/anton-shilov/intel-acquires-30-stake-in-vuzix-a-maker-of-smart-eyewear/|title=Intel acquires 30% stake in Vuzix, a maker of smart eyewear {{!}} KitGuru|website=www.kitguru.net|language=en-US|access-date=2017-01-30}}</ref>
'''Vuzix''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|v|j|u|z|ɪ|k|s|}}) is an American multinational [[technology company]] headquartered in [[Rochester, New York]] and founded by Paul Travers in 1997. Vuzix is a supplier of wearable [[virtual reality]] and [[augmented reality]] display technology. Vuzix manufactures and sells computer [[display device]]s and [[computer software|software]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vuzix.com/corporate/index.html |title=About Vuzix Corporation |access-date=2011-01-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217095557/http://www.vuzix.com/corporate/index.html |archive-date=2013-02-17 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Vuzix [[head-mounted display]]s are marketed towards mobile and immersive [[augmented reality]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-20006750-235.html?tag=mncol |title=Augmented Reality edges closer to the mainstream - CNET News}}</ref> applications, such as [[3d computer graphics|3D gaming]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/The-Best-New-Technology |title=The Best New Technology - Oprah.com}}</ref> [[manufacturing]] training,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Vuzix-NS-Solutions-Corporation-Partner-Deliver-Augmented-Reality-Solutions-Manufacturing-1401246.htm |title=Vuzix and NS Solutions Corporation Partner to Deliver Augmented Reality Solutions for Manufacturing}}</ref> and [[Military technology and equipment|military]] tactical equipment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/26/us-navy-buys-into-smart-glasses-trend-in-deal-with-vuzix/|title=U.S. Navy buys into smart glasses trend in deal with Vuzix|website=VentureBeat|date=27 February 2014|access-date=2017-01-30}}</ref> On January 5, 2015, [[Intel]] acquired 30% of Vuzix's stock for $24.8 million.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/anton-shilov/intel-acquires-30-stake-in-vuzix-a-maker-of-smart-eyewear/|title=Intel acquires 30% stake in Vuzix, a maker of smart eyewear {{!}} KitGuru|website=www.kitguru.net|language=en-US|access-date=2017-01-30}}</ref>


The Company has offices in New York, Japan, and the UK and is the current market leader for video eyewear{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}}. Forte was a pioneer during the mid-1990s developing immersive head mounted displays<ref>{{cite web|title=FORTE VFX-1 HEADGEAR Virtual-Reality system.|url=http://museum.bounce-gaming.net/vfx1.html|publisher=Museum of Interesting Tech}}</ref> for [[Virtual Reality]] and video gaming applications.
The company has offices in New York, Japan, and the UK and is the current market leader for video eyewear.{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}} Forte was a pioneer during the mid-1990s developing immersive head mounted displays<ref>{{cite web|title=FORTE VFX-1 HEADGEAR Virtual-Reality system.|url=http://museum.bounce-gaming.net/vfx1.html|publisher=Museum of Interesting Tech}}</ref> for [[virtual reality]] and video gaming applications.

Vuzix's displays are based on [[Waveguide (optics)|optical waveguides]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/vuzix-waveguide-hmd-system/?cf-view|title=Vuzix to provide additional units for waveguide-based HMD system|date=12 August 2022 }}</ref>


==History==
==History==
Paul Travers founded Vuzix in 1997 in Rochester, NY, under the name Interactive Imaging Systems, purchasing the assets of the [[virtual reality]] company Forte Technologies. The company started with products for the military and U.S. Defense, but then developed consumer virtual reality systems and was the first company to deliver consumer [[virtual reality]]. In 1997, the Company was hired as a subcontractor to [[Raytheon]], designing display electronics for a digital [[AN/PAS-13|night vision weapon sight]].
Paul Travers founded Vuzix in 1997 in Rochester, NY, under the name Interactive Imaging Systems, purchasing the assets of the [[virtual reality]] company Forte Technologies. The company started with products for the military and U.S. Defense, but then developed consumer virtual reality systems. In 1997, the company was hired as a subcontractor to [[Raytheon]], designing display electronics for a digital [[AN/PAS-13|night vision weapon sight]].


In 2000, the [[VFX1 Headgear]] was featured in a commemorative US Postal Service stamp collection celebrating the 1990s.<ref>{{cite web|title=Celebrate the Century - 1990s - No. 10 of 10 - U.S. Postal Service - 2000|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VG9ML6}}</ref> The VFX1 was replaced by a higher resolution system dubbed the VFX3D in mid 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Unofficial VFX3D page|url=http://www.stereo3d.com/vfx3d.htm|work=Stereo3D.com}}</ref>
In 2000, the [[VFX1 Headgear]] was featured in a commemorative US Postal Service stamp collection celebrating the 1990s.<ref>{{cite web|title=Celebrate the Century - 1990s - No. 10 of 10 - U.S. Postal Service - 2000|website=Amazon |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VG9ML6}}</ref> The VFX1 was replaced by a higher resolution system dubbed the VFX3D in mid 2000.<ref>{{cite web|title=Unofficial VFX3D page|url=http://www.stereo3d.com/vfx3d.htm|work=Stereo3D.com}}</ref>


In 2001, Vuzix launched its first consumer electronics product, the iCOM personal internet browser.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hendricks|first=Veronica|title=iCOM Personal Internet Browser|url=http://www.iapplianceweb.com/appreview/handheld_computers_14.htm|accessdate=2011-06-29|newspaper=iApplianceWeb.com}}</ref>
In 2001, Vuzix launched its first consumer electronics product, the iCOM personal internet browser.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hendricks|first=Veronica|title=iCOM Personal Internet Browser|url=http://www.iapplianceweb.com/appreview/handheld_computers_14.htm|access-date=2011-06-29|newspaper=iApplianceWeb.com}}</ref>


In 2005, Vuzix provided a custom high resolution handheld display system that created the 3D imagery for Hitachi's pavilion at the 2005 World’s Fair in Aichi, Japan. The Hitachi Pavilion allowed users to interact with computer generated models and dioramas of endangered species in a Mixed Reality ride.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nature Contact - Hitachi Group Pavilion's Ubiquitous Entertainment Ride|url=http://www.expo2005.or.jp/en/venue/pavilion_private_f.html|work=Expor2005.or.jp}}</ref>
In 2005, Vuzix provided a custom high resolution handheld display system that created the 3D imagery for Hitachi's pavilion at the 2005 World's Fair in Aichi, Japan. The Hitachi Pavilion allowed users to interact with computer generated models and dioramas of endangered species in a Mixed Reality ride.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nature Contact - Hitachi Group Pavilion's Ubiquitous Entertainment Ride|url=http://www.expo2005.or.jp/en/venue/pavilion_private_f.html|work=Expor2005.or.jp}}</ref>


In 2005, the company changed its name to Icuiti. Later that year, Icuiti launched its first product designed specifically for consumers, the V920 Video Eyewear.<ref>{{cite web|title=VR Interfaces: Icuiti V920|url=http://www.virtualworldlets.net/Shop/ProductsDisplay/VRInterface.php?ID=2|work=virtualworldlets.net}}</ref>
In 2005, the company changed its name to Icuiti. Later that year, Icuiti launched its first product designed specifically for consumers, the V920 Video Eyewear.<ref>{{cite web|title=VR Interfaces: Icuiti V920|url=http://www.virtualworldlets.net/Shop/ProductsDisplay/VRInterface.php?ID=2|work=virtualworldlets.net}}</ref>


Also in 2005, Icuiti was awarded its first military R&D contract to develop a high resolution monocular display device for viewing tactical maps and video. This development would lead to the Tac-Eye product line, which began rate production in 2009 and is currently used in many major military programs including the Battlefield Air Operations kit.<ref>{{cite news|title=NDIA Brief|url=http://www.ndiagulfcoast.com/events/archive/34th_Symposium/34_Day1/12_AFSOC_NDIA_Brief.pdf|accessdate=2011-06-29}}</ref>
Also in 2005, Icuiti was awarded its first military R&D contract to develop a high resolution monocular display device for viewing tactical maps and video. This development would lead to the Tac-Eye product line, which began rate production in 2009 and is currently used in many major military programs including the Battlefield Air Operations kit.<ref>{{cite news|title=NDIA Brief|url=http://www.ndiagulfcoast.com/events/archive/34th_Symposium/34_Day1/12_AFSOC_NDIA_Brief.pdf|access-date=2011-06-29}}</ref>


A re-branding in 2007 changed the Company's name from Icuiti to Vuzix.<ref>http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/icuiti-changes-name-to-vuzix-corporation-57757517.html</ref>
A re-branding in 2007 changed the company's name from Icuiti to Vuzix.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/icuiti-changes-name-to-vuzix-corporation-57757517.html| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402094900/http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/icuiti-changes-name-to-vuzix-corporation-57757517.html| archive-date = 2015-04-02| title = Icuiti Changes Name to Vuzix Corporation -- re> ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 4 /PRNewswire/ --}}</ref>


In 2010, Vuzix introduced the first production model see-through [[augmented reality]] glasses the STAR 1200.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/vuzix-star-1200-headset-augments-your-reality-not-your-bank-acc/|work=Engadget.com|publisher=AOL Tech.}}</ref> It was released in August 2011 for $4999.<ref>{{cite web|title=0Vuzix Star 1200: Price and Release Date for Augmented-Reality Glasses|url=http://pinoytutorial.com/techtorial/vuzix-star-1200-price-and-release-date-for-augmented-reality-glasses/}}</ref>
In 2010, Vuzix introduced the first production model see-through [[augmented reality]] glasses the STAR 1200.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/vuzix-star-1200-headset-augments-your-reality-not-your-bank-acc/|work=Engadget.com|date=11 June 2011 |publisher=AOL Tech.}}</ref> It was released in August 2011 for $4999.<ref>{{cite web|title=0Vuzix Star 1200: Price and Release Date for Augmented-Reality Glasses|url=http://pinoytutorial.com/techtorial/vuzix-star-1200-price-and-release-date-for-augmented-reality-glasses/}}</ref>


Vuzix is currently{{When|date=April 2012}} under contract with [[DARPA]] to design and build a next generation heads up display for military ground personnel.<ref>{{cite news|title=Darpa's Holograms Rain Hell|url=https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/04/holograms-bring-hell/|accessdate=29 June 2011|newspaper=Wired.com - Danger Room|first=Noah|last=Shachtman|date=2011-04-11}}</ref> The DARPA PCAS program is large R&D program with the goal of allowing the joint tactical air controller the ability to rapidly engage multiple, moving and simultaneous targets within his area of responsibility.<ref>{{cite web|title=Persistent Close Air Support|url=http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/TTO/Programs/PCAS/Persistent_Close_Air_Support.aspx|publisher=Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency|accessdate=29 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110821023328/http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/TTO/Programs/PCAS/Persistent_Close_Air_Support.aspx|archive-date=21 August 2011|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
Vuzix is currently{{When|date=April 2012}} under contract with [[DARPA]] to design and build a next generation heads up display for military ground personnel.<ref>{{cite news|title=Darpa's Holograms Rain Hell|url=https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/04/holograms-bring-hell/|access-date=29 June 2011|newspaper=Wired.com - Danger Room|first=Noah|last=Shachtman|date=2011-04-11}}</ref> The DARPA PCAS program is large R&D program with the goal of allowing the joint tactical air controller the ability to rapidly engage multiple, moving and simultaneous targets within his area of responsibility.<ref>{{cite web|title=Persistent Close Air Support|url=http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/TTO/Programs/PCAS/Persistent_Close_Air_Support.aspx|publisher=Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency|access-date=29 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110821023328/http://www.darpa.mil/Our_Work/TTO/Programs/PCAS/Persistent_Close_Air_Support.aspx|archive-date=21 August 2011|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


In January 2013, at CES, Vuzix Corporation demonstrated working models of its new M100 Smart Glasses, the official press event of CES. Rated as one of the five top gadgets expected at CES by CNBC<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/id/100348986/Five_Hot_Gadgets_Expected_at_CES_2013|date=January 2013|title=Five Hot Gadgets Expected at CES 2013}}</ref> and given the CES Innovations award,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cesweb.org/Awards/CES-Innovations-Awards/2013.aspx|date=January 2013|title=CES Innovation Awards|access-date=2013-01-20|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6Fl2EW5pW?url=http://www.cesweb.org/Awards/CES-Innovations-Awards/2013.aspx|archive-date=2013-04-09|url-status=dead}}</ref> the Vuzix Smart Glasses M100, expected to ship in second half of 2013, will enable wearers to access data and content from an iOS or Android smart phone from the cloud and ‘hands free’. The m100 was officially released in December 2013 for $1000: double the original announced price.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vuzix's Android-powered M100 Smart Glasses now available to pre-order for $1,000|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/12/03/vuzix-m100-smart-glasses-now-available-to-pre-order/}}</ref>
In January 2013, at CES, Vuzix Corporation demonstrated working models of its new M100 Smart Glasses, the official press event of CES. Rated as one of the five top gadgets expected at CES by CNBC<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2013/01/02/five-hot-gadgets-expected-at-ces-2013.html|date=January 2013|title=Five Hot Gadgets Expected at CES 2013|website=[[CNBC]] }}</ref> and given the CES Innovations award,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cesweb.org/Awards/CES-Innovations-Awards/2013.aspx|date=January 2013|title=CES Innovation Awards|access-date=2013-01-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130403142452/http://cesweb.org/Awards/CES-Innovations-Awards/2013.aspx|archive-date=2013-04-03|url-status=dead}}</ref> the Vuzix Smart Glasses M100, expected to ship in second half of 2013, will enable wearers to access data and content from an iOS or Android smart phone from the cloud and ‘hands free’. The m100 was officially released in December 2013 for $1000: double the original announced price.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vuzix's Android-powered M100 Smart Glasses now available to pre-order for $1,000|date=3 December 2013 |url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/12/03/vuzix-m100-smart-glasses-now-available-to-pre-order/}}</ref>


In January 2015, [[Intel]] invested $25 million in the company, gaining 30% ownership of the company.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/01/03/intel-vuzix-investment/|title=Intel Vuzix Investment}}</ref>
In January 2015, [[Intel]] invested $25 million in the company, gaining 30% ownership of the company.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2015/01/03/intel-vuzix-investment/|title=Intel Vuzix Investment|date=3 January 2015 }}</ref>


In August 2017, Vuzix and BlackBerry became partners to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://grouvytoday.com/news/consumer-electronics-show/vuzix-teams-up-with-blackberry-to-deliver-m300-smart-glasses-to-enterprise-customers/129495/|title=Vuzix teams up with BlackBerry to deliver M300 Smart Glasses to Enterprise customers - Grouvy Today|date=2017-08-10|work=Grouvy Today|access-date=2017-11-23|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.techsourceint.com/emerging-tech/blackberry-teams-up-with-vuzix-to-deliver-smart-glasses-for-the-enterprise|title=Blackberry teams up with Vuzix to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise|work=TechSource International - Leaders in Technology News|access-date=2017-11-23|language=en-us}}</ref>
In August 2017, Vuzix and BlackBerry became partners to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://grouvytoday.com/news/consumer-electronics-show/vuzix-teams-up-with-blackberry-to-deliver-m300-smart-glasses-to-enterprise-customers/129495/|title=Vuzix teams up with BlackBerry to deliver M300 Smart Glasses to Enterprise customers - Grouvy Today|date=2017-08-10|work=Grouvy Today|access-date=2017-11-23|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.techsourceint.com/emerging-tech/blackberry-teams-up-with-vuzix-to-deliver-smart-glasses-for-the-enterprise|title=Blackberry teams up with Vuzix to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise|work=TechSource International - Leaders in Technology News|access-date=2017-11-23|language=en-us}}</ref>
Line 64: Line 67:


===Video Eyeware===
===Video Eyeware===
*Vuzix created the first video eyewear to support stereoscopic 3D for the [[PlayStation 3]] and [[Xbox 360]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://video.forbes.com/fvn/tech/km_techtake022508 |title=Take Control in New Ways - Forbes.com | first=Kym | last=McNicholas}}</ref>
*Vuzix created the first video eyewear to support stereoscopic 3D for the [[PlayStation 3]] and [[Xbox 360]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://video.forbes.com/fvn/tech/km_techtake022508 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206182552/http://video.forbes.com/fvn/tech/km_techtake022508 |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 6, 2008 |title=Take Control in New Ways - Forbes.com | first=Kym | last=McNicholas}}</ref>


===Augmented Reality Eyeware===
===Augmented Reality Eyeware===
*Vuzix created the first commercially produced pass-through augmented reality headset, the Wrap 920AR. The Wrap 920AR has two VGA video displays and two cameras that work together to provide the user a view of the world which blends real world inputs and computer generated data.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/big-idea/14/augmented-reality-pg2 |title=The Big Idea - Augmented Reality - National Geographic Magazine}}</ref>
*Vuzix created the first commercially produced pass-through augmented reality headset, the Wrap 920AR. The Wrap 920AR has two VGA video displays and two cameras that work together to provide the user a view of the world which blends real world inputs and computer generated data.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/big-idea/14/augmented-reality-pg2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100829074037/http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/big-idea/14/augmented-reality-pg2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 29, 2010 |title=The Big Idea - Augmented Reality - National Geographic Magazine}}</ref>
*During the [[Consumer Electronic Show]] in 2011, Vuzix announced the Raptyr. The Raptyr is a see-through augmented reality display prototype that will be the first consumer product of its kind when it reaches the market in 2011{{update after|2011|12|31}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/editors/26227/ |title=CES:Clear Glasses to Augment Your Reality - MIT Technology Review}}</ref>
*During the [[Consumer Electronic Show]] in 2011, Vuzix announced the Raptyr. The Raptyr is a see-through augmented reality display prototype that will be the first consumer product of its kind when it reaches the market in 2011{{update after|2011|12|31}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/editors/26227/ |title=CES:Clear Glasses to Augment Your Reality - MIT Technology Review}}</ref>
*The STAR 1200 is the first see-through [[augmented reality]] display to be mass-produced and was scheduled to be released in August 2011.{{update after|2011|08|31}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/vuzix-star-1200-headset-augments-your-reality-not-your-bank-acc/ |title=Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account |work=Engadget.com |date=2011-06-11}}</ref>
*The STAR 1200 is the first see-through [[augmented reality]] display to be mass-produced and was scheduled to be released in August 2011.{{update after|2011|08|31}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/06/11/vuzix-star-1200-headset-augments-your-reality-not-your-bank-acc/ |title=Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account |work=Engadget.com |date=2011-06-11}}</ref>
*The Vuzix Smart Glasses M100 are scheduled for commercial release in late 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://reviews.cnet.com/specialized-electronics-accessories/vuzix-smart-glasses-m100/4505-7847_7-35536668.html |title=Future goggles: Eyes-on with Vuzix M100 Smart Glasses }}</ref> Vuzix describes the M100 as the world’s first, commercially available, hands free display and cloud connected communications system. The Vuzix M100 contains a virtual display with integrated camera and powerful processing engine, running the Android OS . Users will be able to connect wirelessly to their smartphone (Android-based) or other compatible devices. The M100 is also powerful enough to connect directly to the Internet, run applications and games itself. When connected to a smartphone, users will be able to engage with existing and future applications such as texts, video, email, mapping, and audio. As a hands free accessory with integrated camera/display functionality, Vuzi smart glasses will let users answer the phone with a visual address book and enable applications from text messaging and email to visual navigation (via an integrated GPS and head tracker) along with more advanced features like video recording. The interactive head tracking and integrated HD camera, combined with applications on the M100 and a smartphone linked to the Cloud, empower smartphone based augmented reality applications.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vuzix.com/site/_news/2013/vuzix-unveils-M100-smart-glasses-at-CES.pdf|date=January 2013|title=Vuzix Unveils its M100 Smart Glasses at International Consumer Electronics Show|access-date=2013-01-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124004711/http://www.vuzix.com/site/_news/2013/vuzix-unveils-M100-smart-glasses-at-CES.pdf|archive-date=2013-01-24|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.humavox.com/blog/wearable-week-vuzix-m100/|date=July 2015|title=Our Wearable of the Week: Vuzix M100}}</ref>
*The Vuzix Smart Glasses M100 are scheduled for commercial release in late 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://reviews.cnet.com/specialized-electronics-accessories/vuzix-smart-glasses-m100/4505-7847_7-35536668.html |title=Future goggles: Eyes-on with Vuzix M100 Smart Glasses }}</ref> Vuzix describes the M100 as the world's first, commercially available, hands free display and cloud connected communications system. The Vuzix M100 contains a virtual display with integrated camera and powerful processing engine, running the Android OS . Users will be able to connect wirelessly to their smartphone (Android-based) or other compatible devices. The M100 is also powerful enough to connect directly to the Internet, run applications and games itself. When connected to a smartphone, users will be able to engage with existing and future applications such as texts, video, email, mapping, and audio. As a hands free accessory with integrated camera/display functionality, Vuzi smart glasses will let users answer the phone with a visual address book and enable applications from text messaging and email to visual navigation (via an integrated GPS and head tracker) along with more advanced features like video recording. The interactive head tracking and integrated HD camera, combined with applications on the M100 and a smartphone linked to the Cloud, empower smartphone based augmented reality applications.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vuzix.com/site/_news/2013/vuzix-unveils-M100-smart-glasses-at-CES.pdf|date=January 2013|title=Vuzix Unveils its M100 Smart Glasses at International Consumer Electronics Show|access-date=2013-01-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124004711/http://www.vuzix.com/site/_news/2013/vuzix-unveils-M100-smart-glasses-at-CES.pdf|archive-date=2013-01-24|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.humavox.com/blog/wearable-week-vuzix-m100/|date=July 2015|title=Our Wearable of the Week: Vuzix M100}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
Line 90: Line 93:
[[Category:Multimodal interaction]]
[[Category:Multimodal interaction]]
[[Category:Virtual reality companies]]
[[Category:Virtual reality companies]]
[[Category:Display devices]]
[[Category:Electronic display devices]]
[[Category:Video hardware]]
[[Category:Video hardware]]
[[Category:User interfaces]]
[[Category:User interfaces]]
[[Category:Companies listed on NASDAQ]]
[[Category:Companies listed on the Nasdaq]]
[[Category:Companies based in New York (state)]]
[[Category:Companies based in New York (state)]]
[[Category:Eyewear companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Eyewear companies of the United States]]

Latest revision as of 02:16, 11 November 2024

Vuzix Corporation
Company typePublic
Nasdaq: VUZI
Russell 2000 Component
FounderPaul Travers
Headquarters
Rochester, New York
,
United States
ProductsM100 Smart Glasses, M300 Smart Glasses, M400 Smart Glasses, Blade Smart Glasses, iWear Video Headphones
OwnerIntel (10%)
State Street KOMP ETF (12%)[1]
Number of employees
90[1]
Websitewww.vuzix.com

Vuzix (/ˈvjuzɪks/) is an American multinational technology company headquartered in Rochester, New York and founded by Paul Travers in 1997. Vuzix is a supplier of wearable virtual reality and augmented reality display technology. Vuzix manufactures and sells computer display devices and software.[2] Vuzix head-mounted displays are marketed towards mobile and immersive augmented reality[3] applications, such as 3D gaming,[4] manufacturing training,[5] and military tactical equipment.[6] On January 5, 2015, Intel acquired 30% of Vuzix's stock for $24.8 million.[7]

The company has offices in New York, Japan, and the UK and is the current market leader for video eyewear.[citation needed] Forte was a pioneer during the mid-1990s developing immersive head mounted displays[8] for virtual reality and video gaming applications.

Vuzix's displays are based on optical waveguides.[9]

History

[edit]

Paul Travers founded Vuzix in 1997 in Rochester, NY, under the name Interactive Imaging Systems, purchasing the assets of the virtual reality company Forte Technologies. The company started with products for the military and U.S. Defense, but then developed consumer virtual reality systems. In 1997, the company was hired as a subcontractor to Raytheon, designing display electronics for a digital night vision weapon sight.

In 2000, the VFX1 Headgear was featured in a commemorative US Postal Service stamp collection celebrating the 1990s.[10] The VFX1 was replaced by a higher resolution system dubbed the VFX3D in mid 2000.[11]

In 2001, Vuzix launched its first consumer electronics product, the iCOM personal internet browser.[12]

In 2005, Vuzix provided a custom high resolution handheld display system that created the 3D imagery for Hitachi's pavilion at the 2005 World's Fair in Aichi, Japan. The Hitachi Pavilion allowed users to interact with computer generated models and dioramas of endangered species in a Mixed Reality ride.[13]

In 2005, the company changed its name to Icuiti. Later that year, Icuiti launched its first product designed specifically for consumers, the V920 Video Eyewear.[14]

Also in 2005, Icuiti was awarded its first military R&D contract to develop a high resolution monocular display device for viewing tactical maps and video. This development would lead to the Tac-Eye product line, which began rate production in 2009 and is currently used in many major military programs including the Battlefield Air Operations kit.[15]

A re-branding in 2007 changed the company's name from Icuiti to Vuzix.[16]

In 2010, Vuzix introduced the first production model see-through augmented reality glasses the STAR 1200.[17] It was released in August 2011 for $4999.[18]

Vuzix is currently[when?] under contract with DARPA to design and build a next generation heads up display for military ground personnel.[19] The DARPA PCAS program is large R&D program with the goal of allowing the joint tactical air controller the ability to rapidly engage multiple, moving and simultaneous targets within his area of responsibility.[20]

In January 2013, at CES, Vuzix Corporation demonstrated working models of its new M100 Smart Glasses, the official press event of CES. Rated as one of the five top gadgets expected at CES by CNBC[21] and given the CES Innovations award,[22] the Vuzix Smart Glasses M100, expected to ship in second half of 2013, will enable wearers to access data and content from an iOS or Android smart phone from the cloud and ‘hands free’. The m100 was officially released in December 2013 for $1000: double the original announced price.[23]

In January 2015, Intel invested $25 million in the company, gaining 30% ownership of the company.[24]

In August 2017, Vuzix and BlackBerry became partners to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise.[25][26]

Innovations

[edit]

Video Eyeware

[edit]

Augmented Reality Eyeware

[edit]
  • Vuzix created the first commercially produced pass-through augmented reality headset, the Wrap 920AR. The Wrap 920AR has two VGA video displays and two cameras that work together to provide the user a view of the world which blends real world inputs and computer generated data.[28]
  • During the Consumer Electronic Show in 2011, Vuzix announced the Raptyr. The Raptyr is a see-through augmented reality display prototype that will be the first consumer product of its kind when it reaches the market in 2011[needs update].[29]
  • The STAR 1200 is the first see-through augmented reality display to be mass-produced and was scheduled to be released in August 2011.[needs update][30]
  • The Vuzix Smart Glasses M100 are scheduled for commercial release in late 2013.[31] Vuzix describes the M100 as the world's first, commercially available, hands free display and cloud connected communications system. The Vuzix M100 contains a virtual display with integrated camera and powerful processing engine, running the Android OS . Users will be able to connect wirelessly to their smartphone (Android-based) or other compatible devices. The M100 is also powerful enough to connect directly to the Internet, run applications and games itself. When connected to a smartphone, users will be able to engage with existing and future applications such as texts, video, email, mapping, and audio. As a hands free accessory with integrated camera/display functionality, Vuzi smart glasses will let users answer the phone with a visual address book and enable applications from text messaging and email to visual navigation (via an integrated GPS and head tracker) along with more advanced features like video recording. The interactive head tracking and integrated HD camera, combined with applications on the M100 and a smartphone linked to the Cloud, empower smartphone based augmented reality applications.[32][33]

See also

[edit]
  • MyVu

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Corporate Presentation Jan 2021" (PDF).
  2. ^ "About Vuzix Corporation". Archived from the original on 2013-02-17. Retrieved 2011-01-24.
  3. ^ "Augmented Reality edges closer to the mainstream - CNET News".
  4. ^ "The Best New Technology - Oprah.com".
  5. ^ "Vuzix and NS Solutions Corporation Partner to Deliver Augmented Reality Solutions for Manufacturing".
  6. ^ "U.S. Navy buys into smart glasses trend in deal with Vuzix". VentureBeat. 27 February 2014. Retrieved 2017-01-30.
  7. ^ "Intel acquires 30% stake in Vuzix, a maker of smart eyewear | KitGuru". www.kitguru.net. Retrieved 2017-01-30.
  8. ^ "FORTE VFX-1 HEADGEAR Virtual-Reality system". Museum of Interesting Tech.
  9. ^ "Vuzix to provide additional units for waveguide-based HMD system". 12 August 2022.
  10. ^ "Celebrate the Century - 1990s - No. 10 of 10 - U.S. Postal Service - 2000". Amazon.
  11. ^ "Unofficial VFX3D page". Stereo3D.com.
  12. ^ Hendricks, Veronica. "iCOM Personal Internet Browser". iApplianceWeb.com. Retrieved 2011-06-29.
  13. ^ "Nature Contact - Hitachi Group Pavilion's Ubiquitous Entertainment Ride". Expor2005.or.jp.
  14. ^ "VR Interfaces: Icuiti V920". virtualworldlets.net.
  15. ^ "NDIA Brief" (PDF). Retrieved 2011-06-29.
  16. ^ "Icuiti Changes Name to Vuzix Corporation -- re> ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 4 /PRNewswire/ --". Archived from the original on 2015-04-02.
  17. ^ "Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account". Engadget.com. AOL Tech. 11 June 2011.
  18. ^ "0Vuzix Star 1200: Price and Release Date for Augmented-Reality Glasses".
  19. ^ Shachtman, Noah (2011-04-11). "Darpa's Holograms Rain Hell". Wired.com - Danger Room. Retrieved 29 June 2011.
  20. ^ "Persistent Close Air Support". Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Archived from the original on 21 August 2011. Retrieved 29 June 2011.
  21. ^ "Five Hot Gadgets Expected at CES 2013". CNBC. January 2013.
  22. ^ "CES Innovation Awards". January 2013. Archived from the original on 2013-04-03. Retrieved 2013-01-20.
  23. ^ "Vuzix's Android-powered M100 Smart Glasses now available to pre-order for $1,000". 3 December 2013.
  24. ^ "Intel Vuzix Investment". 3 January 2015.
  25. ^ "Vuzix teams up with BlackBerry to deliver M300 Smart Glasses to Enterprise customers - Grouvy Today". Grouvy Today. 2017-08-10. Retrieved 2017-11-23.
  26. ^ "Blackberry teams up with Vuzix to deliver smart glasses for the enterprise". TechSource International - Leaders in Technology News. Retrieved 2017-11-23.
  27. ^ McNicholas, Kym. "Take Control in New Ways - Forbes.com". Archived from the original on December 6, 2008.
  28. ^ "The Big Idea - Augmented Reality - National Geographic Magazine". Archived from the original on August 29, 2010.
  29. ^ "CES:Clear Glasses to Augment Your Reality - MIT Technology Review".
  30. ^ "Vuzix Star 1200 headset augments your reality, not your bank account". Engadget.com. 2011-06-11.
  31. ^ "Future goggles: Eyes-on with Vuzix M100 Smart Glasses".
  32. ^ "Vuzix Unveils its M100 Smart Glasses at International Consumer Electronics Show" (PDF). January 2013. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-01-24. Retrieved 2013-01-25.
  33. ^ "Our Wearable of the Week: Vuzix M100". July 2015.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Vuzix&oldid=1256679774"