Wearable augmented reality device from Brilliant.xyz aims to provide on-the-go AR experiences

Brilliant.xyz – GoDaddy customer – (Singapore)

AR/VR developers are using .xyz domains to harness the potential of immersive technologies and create innovative platforms that redefine user experiences. Poland-based digital marketing agency Lune.xyz focuses on the use of interactive, cutting-edge AR and VR technology to connect consumers with products. AR audio platform Echoes.xyz aims to help you create immersive soundwalks, audiowalks, guided tours, and musical experiences. Browser-based 3D design tool Rooms.xyz envisions compatibility with AR/VR platforms as the technology evolves. In this week’s #WebsiteWednesday, we’ll introduce you to a tech company showcasing their wearable augmented reality device: Brilliant.xyz.

Brilliant.xyz: Home of open source gadgets and wearable augmented reality devices

Brilliant.xyz is the online home of Brilliant Labs, a tech company developing open source gadgets, including wearable augmented reality (AR) devices. Brilliant Labs fosters a community-driven approach by providing open source software and encouraging collaboration among enthusiasts and developers. The innovative company aims to encourage individuals and foster creativity by exploring the potential of technology. In May 2020, Brilliant Labs raised $50K in a Pre-Seed round with the support of 1337 Ventures, a technology accelerator and early stage venture capital firm specializing in pre-seed and seed stage investments.¹ As reported on June 28, 2023, Brilliant Labs raised an additional $3M in seed funding. The round was led by Brendan Iribe, co-founder of Meta’s virtual reality headset Oculus, and Adam Cheyer, co-founder of Apple virtual assistant Siri.²

Introducing Monocle: Compact wearable AR device 

Brilliant Labs has developed Monocle, a compact, wearable open source device that aims to enhance computer vision and augmented reality projects. By attaching it to existing eyewear, Monocle aims to provide an extended vision capability. Its hardware and open source software offer various potential applications for on-the-go augmented reality experiences.

Monocle weighs approximately half an ounce, which can make prolonged use more comfortable. The small device features some powerful technology. For those who are technically inclined, here are some notable features:

• Monocle utilizes the Nordic Semi nRF52832 system-on-chip (SOC).
• It incorporates the GoWin GW1NR-9 field-programmable gate array (FPGA) connected via an SPI bus.
• Monocle features a 640×400 Sony ECX336CN micro-OLED display that transforms into an augmented reality display.
• The device includes an Omnivision OV5640 camera sensor and a TDK ICS-41351 microphone.
• It also incorporates a capacitive touch sensor for user interaction.

Monocle’s cutting-edge features 

Monocle provides a range of features and functionalities. It connects to your mobile phone through Bluetooth, allowing integration with different applications. Monocle operates on open source software and offers a user-friendly introduction to MicroPython. MicroPython is a programming language designed for microcontrollers. Monocle includes capabilities such as 16x “super-zoom” vision, instant replay with slow-motion mode, and the ability to capture still images and videos, helping users to easily document and share their augmented reality experiences.

Open source innovation: Collaborate and contribute to Monocle’s development on GitHub

Monocle is available to order on Brilliant.xyz, helping enthusiasts and developers to explore augmented reality. The project source code for Monocle is accessible on GitHub under the permissive MIT license, promoting collaboration and community contributions for further development and enhancement of its capabilities.

Open source innovation can help developers explore and enhance Monocle’s capabilities as well as promote collaboration and community contributions. With its affordable price point comparable to an Oculus Quest, Monocle’s open source nature empowers developers to tinker with the hardware and software, fostering innovation, encouraging collaboration, and providing transparency in the augmented reality space.

Check out the Brilliant Labs Discord server, a platform where AR enthusiasts and skilled hackers converge to share their Monocle projects. You can engage in discussions with the company’s founders during monthly Ask-Me-Anything sessions and leverage office hours to access the knowledge of their lead engineer. Additionally, members gain the opportunity to participate in exclusive contests and giveaways hosted within the community. With a global user base, the active network of users provides a potential avenue for assistance whenever needed. 

Pioneering AR with the new Brilliant.xyz domain

Brilliant Labs CEO Bobak Tavangar is a former Program Lead at Apple and the co-founder of Jellyfish, an AI-powered anti-spam software. Bobak and Brilliant Labs upgraded their domain from itsbrilliant.co to the shorter and more powerful Brilliant.xyz. Brilliant Labs aims to make augmented reality projects more accessible and encourages a community-driven ecosystem of innovation. We look forward to seeing more developments. You can learn more about Brilliant Labs and the Monocle by following the company on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram, joining the Discord, and by visiting Brilliant.xyz.

<sup>1. https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/brilliant-labs-15c9/company_financials
2. https://www.finsmes.com/2023/06/brilliant-labs-raises-us3-0m-in-seed-funding.html</sup>