Alibaba says the Quark AI glasses are available in two variants – the flagship S1 and the “lifestyle-focused” G1, in multiple colors and lens types. Prices start at 3,799 yuan ($537) and 1,899 yuan ($268), respectively. According to Alibaba, the main difference is the lenses, the S1 uses clear micro-OLED displays.
Both have bone conduction microphones, built-in cameras, and a “dual replaceable battery system” that “provides up to 24 hours of battery life.” They are powered by Alibaba’s Qwen AI model and associated app, which means they can be controlled by voice or touch.
Alibaba says the glasses will be integrated with its apps such as Alipay and Taobao, as well as music streaming platforms such as QQ Music and NetEase Cloud Music. They will be able to provide services such as on-the-go translation, instant price recognition, navigation support and meeting transcription.
International models will be available next year, According to Bloombergbut these markets have not been identified.
The glasses represent an attempt to break into the market for artificial intelligence-powered wearables, which tech companies say could become the next huge consumer gadget. Meta with its Ray-Ban glasses is the clear leader, but others, like Apple and whatever Sam Altman creates with Jony Ive, are rushing to catch up.