Augmented reality (AR) has made huge strides in the past decade, with NextGen architects already taking advantage of this technological leap. Features on the ARki app have enabled users to design in the metaverse, creating 3D visualizations of projects using precise 1:1 scaling, material palettes to texture various models, and real-time lighting and shadows that can be mixed with real-world images or features. In the last few years, the likes of Hawkins Brown, Haskoll, and Gottlieb Palladun have already showcased designs using the immersive platform.
The International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education finds AR highly beneficial in the fields of architecture and construction. Experts note its role in creating more persistent learning, developing in-depth perception and spatial representation, and adapting designs to accurate scale within the site thanks to more fluid acquisition. So, all that remains is recognizing the next level to maximizing AR within the industry as the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses become more prevalent and accessible.
What are the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses?
Ray-Ban Meta is a collection of smart glasses born from a collaboration between eyewear brand Ray-Ban and tech giant Meta. Each pair carries the classic designs of Ray-Ban frames while integrating features like a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, a five-mic array and speaker setup, and smart technology powered by Meta AI. This lets users connect to a conversational assistant with the “Hey Meta” command and live stream, get information on surroundings, send texts, make calls, and capture videos and photos.
The most updated variants of the glasses come in over 100 colors and have better Meta AI integration for voice-based interactions. These should not be confused with Ray-Ban Stories, the first generation of the glasses, which come with fewer styles, shorter battery life, and do not offer the same AI assistance. The collection is available among the regular Ray-Ban glasses on FramesDirect, allowing potential users to check the entire line of Ray-Ban frames and use those as a basis for the custom frames that can come with the smart glasses. Since the Ray-Ban Meta comes with discreet cameras and speakers, the frame emulates the shape of classic pieces but in a slightly bulkier fashion. Purchases made with the platform allow users to contact opticians who can provide a prescription to integrate corrective vision lenses into the smart glasses.
These smart glasses are already popular with content creators and enthusiasts, but they hold great promise for regular use in the world of architecture.
How does Ray-Ban Meta benefit architects?
Elevated site visits
Site visits are usually done in steps to ensure cohesion and thoroughness, but Ray-Ban Meta’s functionality already makes the first site inspection a robust experience. Since they are worn like regular glasses, architects can take in the information they need and capture everything on the go. The crisp images and videos allow further examination upon rewatch without sacrificing the details and spatial information from the actual visit. Since Meta AI can also provide information based on specific environmental factors, site visits become more efficient as architects take in necessary data without needing to bring as many tools or take as much time.
Enhanced collaboration and communication
A great architect doesn’t work alone to achieve their vision. The advent of remote communication makes the Ray-Ban Meta an appropriate tool to collaborate with other team members in an accessible and lossless format. The wearer can transmit information without any confusion since the Ray-Ban Meta captures the exact perspective of the user. This removes doubt and minimizes the need for approximation as different designers and contractors look at actual references to create ideas together.
Better real-time analysis and streamlining complex designs
Creating a concept is easier when you don’t have to imagine the point of view. Although skilled architects can accurately emulate these factors for their design, introducing smart glasses can streamline the entire design process. Since the wearer is present in capturing information as they receive it in real life, they can also conceptualize the layers needed and use the captured video as a direct point to add later. Any videos captured through the Ray-Ban Meta can potentially be uploaded to the ARki app for overlayed designs over the fundamental base structure.
Reimagining walkthroughs and consultations
In examining people’s preferences for buildings and streetscapes in New Zealand, researchers found that people respond differently to concepts and designs in person compared to a review of photographs. With the immersive nature of captures from the Ray-Ban Meta, designers can provide more realism in their walkthroughs with clients and get a better response. This can create a more reliable evaluation during the consultation period, especially as the same research finds that people prefer responsive cohesion. This concept can be achieved with more ease when the advent of smart glasses and AR essentially removes geographical and technical limitations.
For more insights on the future of architecture and the latest concepts across the board, check out our other articles on Amazing Architecture.
