Xreal is making waves at CES 2026 with its latest augmented reality (AR) glasses, aiming to set itself apart in a crowded marketplace. I’ve sampled a variety of smart glasses at the event, including the affordable TCL RayNeo Air 4 Pro, but Xreal’s offerings stand out with notable advancements.
The company introduced two new models: the Xreal 1S and the ROG Xreal R1 gaming glasses. The Xreal 1S is priced at $449 and boasts significant upgrades from its predecessor. Meanwhile, the ROG Xreal R1 claims to be the world’s first micro-LED smart glasses with a 240 Hz refresh rate, even surpassing features found in the pricey Apple Vision Pro. The R1 won’t be available until later this year, but it promises to deliver a top-notch gaming experience.
One of the most intriguing features unveiled at CES is Xreal’s Real 3D technology. This setting allows users to instantly transform their 2D content into 3D, enhancing the viewing experience for photos, videos, and games. This capability is available as a free update for current Xreal models and is enabled by their X1 spatial computing chip.
I had a chance to try the ROG Xreal R1 glasses, and the experience was stunning. Tethered to a gaming device, I played Elden Ring, and the high refresh rate made the graphics crisp and immersive. User reactions on social media have echoed a sentiment of excitement, with many gamers sharing their anticipation for the R1’s capabilities.
Here’s what the R1 offers:
- Display: 240Hz 1080p micro-OLED
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Size: 171-inch display from 4 meters away
- View: 57 degrees
- Weight: Only 91 grams
- Sound: High-quality Bose audio
While many brands focus on price, Xreal is emphasizing quality. An Xreal rep mentioned that their goal is to provide superior technology rather than compete solely on cost. This approach is resonating with tech enthusiasts who are keen on innovative features rather than just affordability.
The Real 3D feature is particularly impressive. Unlike other headsets that take time to convert 2D content into 3D, Xreal does it instantly. Even videos from a recent Gwen Stefani concert I tested were transformed convincingly into 3D, providing a more immersive viewing experience. Although the feature isn’t perfect, it significantly enhances content interactively.
Xreal’s latest developments indicate it’s taking a significant leap forward in AR technology. The company’s commitment to innovation could be setting new standards, especially in a market filled with burgeoning competitors. With CES 2026 showcasing these advancements, it’s clear that the battle for AR supremacy is heating up.
If you’re curious to delve deeper into smart glasses and their tech evolution, you can find more about Xreal and related innovations at Xreal’s official website.
