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Baidu Inc, China’s leading AI innovator, is set to reveal its latest hardware breakthrough: AI-powered smart glasses, aiming to challenge the popularity of Meta’s Ray-Bans. This new wearable technology, developed by Baidu’s hardware division Xiaodu, is expected to be unveiled at the Baidu World event in Shanghai next week, according to an inside source.
Equipped with cameras for photo and video capture and powered by Baidu’s Ernie foundation model, these glasses are designed to engage users with voice interactions and a suite of Baidu services.
Baidu’s AI smart glasses are part of a broader push by global tech firms to leverage artificial intelligence in consumer-focused hardware. Meta Platforms’ smart glasses, created with Ray-Ban manufacturer EssilorLuxottica, are among the few successes in the market and Baidu is stepping in with its own model in hopes of replicating that success in China and beyond.
Meta’s product has grown in features and functionality and its demand has consistently outpaced supply—a clear signal of a growing interest in AI-embedded wearable tech. These AI glasses by Baidu are anticipated to integrate with Baidu Maps and Baike, Baidu’s online encyclopedia, providing users with connected experiences across Baidu’s ecosystem. Expected to be competitively priced at less than Meta’s $299 Ray-Bans, they are projected for a commercial release as early as 2025.
Xiaodu, Baidu’s hardware arm, has made significant strides in the AI industry since it raised funding in 2020 with investors like IDG Capital, valuing the division at $2.9 billion. Key products include smart speakers and wireless earbuds, which enhance Baidu’s offerings by connecting users to its diverse ecosystem of services. The AI-powered glasses are part of Baidu’s strategy to capitalize on its decade-long AI development efforts.
In China, AI-powered wearables have already gained popularity, with several companies producing AI-enabled glasses with functionalities like real-time translation and pathfinding. However, Baidu’s new glasses aim to stand out with their advanced AI capabilities and direct integration with its ecosystem, allowing users to experience a seamless blend of convenience and innovation.
