In a move that could redefine how we interact with laptops, the Spacetop G1—a groundbreaking device from ex-Magic Leap innovators—has entered the market, offering a fresh take on portable computing with augmented reality (AR) at its core.
Priced at $1,700, the Spacetop G1 isn't your typical laptop. Foregoing the traditional display, this cutting-edge device pairs a keyboard with a lightweight set of AR glasses, promising a more comfortable and immersive user experience than current AR solutions like the Apple Vision Pro.
The Spacetop G1's AR Glasses weigh just 85 grams—substantially lighter than the Apple Vision Pro’s 600-650 grams. This significant reduction in weight is designed to enhance comfort during extended use. The entire setup, including the keyboard, tips the scales at around three pounds, making it a portable solution, albeit heavier than a MacBook Air or an iPad Pro.
The Spacetop runs on SpaceOS, a spatial operating system tailored for productivity and web-based tasks. By focusing on web applications, SpaceOS circumvents the need for a large developer ecosystem, allowing users to access essential tools without additional app development.
Key Features and Specifications
- Hardware: The Spacetop G1 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon QCS8550 chip, comes with 128GB of storage, 16GB of RAM, and features two open-ear speakers for a surround-sound experience.
- Connectivity: Two USB-C ports on the keyboard provide options for connecting to traditional external displays if needed.
- Battery Life: Users can expect up to eight hours of use on a single charge.
- Display Technology: The AR glasses are equipped with dual OLED panels, each boasting a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels and a refresh rate of 90Hz. They also support custom prescription lenses, ensuring visual clarity for a wide range of users.
Availability and Pricing
The Spacetop G1 is set to retail at $1,900, but early adopters can snag it for $1,700 by placing a $100 refundable deposit. Shipping is anticipated to begin in October 2024.
With its innovative approach to laptop design, the Spacetop G1 aims to blend productivity with futuristic AR technology, potentially setting a new standard for portable computing. Whether this will mark the beginning of a broader shift toward AR-integrated devices remains to be seen, but for now, the Spacetop G1 is carving out a niche in a competitive market.
News Source: MacRumors.com
