New update will bring video-calling to Vuzix smart glasses

Smart accessories with data connections of their own are now an inextricable thing; however, people seem to have become most comfortable with them as smartphone (or headphone) companions rather than stand-alone communications devices. Despite all the popular derision of doing a Dick Tracy with a smartwatch, the OEM Vuzix appears to think that classic sci-fi motifs still have a place among smart-glass users.

This company makes some relatively well-known series of smart glasses, and plans improved generations of the same in the future. It has recently announced that development on a peer-to-peer video-calling function is now complete and is ready to roll out to units of the Blade line of relevant devices.

However, in practice, this new ability may not work out like an Iron Man suit's heads-up display by any means. Those who receive calls from Vuzix Blade glasses, yet lack the same themselves, will be visible on the device's waveguide-generated display; however, as the camera on the other end faces outward, they may not see the wearer's face (unless, perhaps, there is a mirror handy).

Similarly, a video chat conducted between 2 sets of Vuzix smart glasses will see either caller's immediate surroundings (again, in the absence of a mirror). Nevertheless, business and industry customers may find this new facility useful in the smart glasses increasingly adopted for use in various professional environments. Furthermore, the update will be implemented in apps such as Facebook Messenger Lite and WhatsApp (versions of which already exist within the Vuzix ecosystem), which may boost its adoption and familiarity.