Smart Glasses & AR/VR: Why “Gaming Gadgets” Will Revolutionise the Workplace

By Eric Ritter, CEO and President of Digital Neighbor

With the AI revolution commanding so much attention, it’s easy for businesses to get caught up in the excitement and miss out on other technological developments that are just as promising. Blockchain? Cloud computing? Sure. But what about smart glasses and augmented- and virtual-reality (AR/VR) headsets? 

There are a few new products on the market that many, if not most, see as great entertainment devices; but their capabilities go far beyond that. In fact, business owners are already exploring opportunities to use this technology to increase efficiency and productivity while also gaining an edge on the competition. Let’s take a look.

RAY-BAN META SMART GLASSES — $299

Developed in October 2023, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are doing for glasses what Apple did for mobile phones. 

What exactly are they? They’re the fusion of the elegant design you’d expect from a Ray-Ban product with the ability to take pictures and videos, livestream to Facebook and Instagram, access AI search, and even take phone calls.

That versatility makes this a great product for influencers, solopreneurs and entrepreneurs who often have a full range of business needs. But they can also be used for more specific roles as well — like deliveries and logistics management. 

With just a “Hey Meta”, drivers can ask for directions or local information. Shippers can take photos of packages before they’re sealed shut, so they have a record of each shipment’s contents. And it can be all be done hands free and in seconds, which can save a company a lot of headaches if a customer claim arises.

META QUEST 3 — $499

If you want a more robust product, try the Meta Quest 3, which raises the game with some mixed reality features.

In layman’s terms, the Meta Quest 3 lets you combine digital elements — in the form of a wide variety of apps — with the physical world. It does so by utilising a sophisticated set of cameras and an excellent motion detector.

Though it was designed originally as a portal for Meta’s virtual worlds, the Quest 3 offers a lot more than that. For starters:

• On-the-road convenience — Designers can work on large-scale projects while traveling, without having to rely on expensive and cumbersome monitors. 
• Exceptional privacy — Sales teams and C-suite executives use the Meta Quest 3 as a monitor in open space without worrying about anyone being able to see confidential materials on their screen.
• Injury prevention — A 2020 study found that companies in high-risk industries (e.g., oil, gas, construction and manufacturing) that used VR to train employees were able to reduce workplace injuries by up to 43%.

THE APPLE VISION PRO — $3,499

Released in February 2024, the Apple Vision Pro promises a revolutionary leap in how users combine digital tools and everyday life.

Despite its hefty price, the Vision Pro, like the previously mentioned products, is designed to be used by everyone. It doesn’t require any special technical training and, though it clearly caters more to senior-level and executive professionals, anyone can implement it almost right away. And you may want to look into that.

Why? The technology is so new, and so few businesses have incorporated it, that you’ll have the advantage of being an early adopter. You can document your experiences with it and share them with your audience to increase your reach and become a thought leader in the AR/VR business use space. And you can unlock its hidden features and capabilities well before your competitors even start thinking about its potential. That’ll put you way ahead of the game and make you a technology leader in your industry.

In case you’re wondering, my employees and I actually use all of these devices in my company. We’re an environmentally forward, fully remote work force that leverages every opportunity we can to work more efficiently and effectively for our clients. All of these products have streamlined our workflows, enhanced our communications and made our workdays all-around easier. I’ve been nothing short of super impressed. And I’m sure you’d be just as amazed with how well this technology can revolutionise your business.

ABOUT ERIC RITTER

Eric Ritter is the owner and CEO of Digital Neighbor with 20+ years of experience in advertising and marketing. His neighborly agency stands out as results-driven and proves kindness goes a long way in both B2B and B2C. Eric’s passion and expertise is lead generation through digital marketing and, specifically, search engine optimization (SEO), where he acts directly as a ‘sommelier’ or advisor for clients seeking the best search solutions. With a Masters of Advertising and a tenured position in academia instructing Digital Media at the University of South Florida, Eric is a natural teacher wherever he goes. When he’s not working, you can find Eric golfing, spending time with his son or hosting his podcast: The Search Bar.