TCL has dipped its toes into the personal entertainment pool with the NXTWEAR Air, a pair of glasses aiming to redefine mobile movie marathons. But unlike its virtual reality (VR) cousins that completely block out the world, the NXTWEAR Air takes a more subtle approach, offering a private cinematic experience without sacrificing real-world awareness.
The highlight of the NXTWEAR Air is its dual Micro OLED display projecting a 1080p image directly in front of your eyes. TCL boasts that this translates to a virtual 130-inch screen viewable from four meters away, essentially putting a personal cinema in your pocket. While the resolution isn't mind-blowing, it offers crisp visuals well-suited for watching movies and shows on the move.
However, the NXTWEAR Air isn't without its shortcomings. Unlike its big brother, the NXTWEAR S, this iteration lacks the head-tracking features and fancy software, functioning more as a mirrored display for your phone or compatible device. This means navigating through shows or scrolling through social media requires fumbling with your phone instead of using intuitive head movements.
On the upside, the lack of complex features translates to a simpler and more affordable product. The NXTWEAR Air connects to your device using a USB-C cable, providing both power and display functionality. This eliminates the need for bulky batteries or separate chargers, making it a convenient companion for travel or everyday commutes.
Comfort is another key aspect, and the NXTWEAR Air achieves a relatively lightweight design. The glasses themselves are constructed from plastic, making them somewhat flexible but not necessarily the most durable. Extended use might cause some pressure on the nose bridge, but overall, they feel comfortable for shorter viewing sessions.
The verdict on the TCL NXTWEAR Air depends on your needs. If you're looking for a VR-like experience with fancy augmented reality features, this might not be it. However, if you crave a private cinematic experience while traveling or waiting for that delayed flight, the NXTWEAR Air offers a compelling proposition. With its portability, ease of use, and decent visual quality, it creates a niche for itself in the ever-evolving world of mobile entertainment.