While Apple‘s recently released Vision Pro headset is impressive technology, it’s mostly geared towards indoor use. But there are other, highly specialized smart glasses on the market that make Vision Pro look like child’s play.

One such product is the Navigator Z1 by RealWear, unveiled last month at CES 2024. What makes Navigator Z1 unique is that it’s certified for use in hazardous environments where consumer devices would be unsafe – things like oil rigs, mines, and factories.

The Z1 meets strict safety certifications that allow it to be used where flammable chemicals and dust are present without the risk of triggering explosions. This is thanks to its rugged, modular design. It runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6490 chipset and has built-in 5G connectivity, voice control that works even in 100-decibel environments and swappable batteries.

But one of its most impressive features is an optional FLIR thermal camera that can be added to the frame. This allows workers to see in the dark and detect leaks, overheating equipment, or other anomalies invisible to the naked eye. It’s technology that not even Apple Vision, with all its augmented reality prowess, can match.

The niche nature of Navigator Z1 does come at a premium price, however. At $5,850 per unit, it’s well outside most consumers’ budgets. But for the industrial sector, it could be a game-changer and lifesaver.

Europe, the United Arab Emirates, and the majority of the Asia-Pacific region. Orders in North America, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and much of Latin America are expected to be fulfilled in March.

So while devices like Vision Pro grab headlines, there’s a whole market of specialized wearables that enable our essential infrastructure to run safely and efficiently. The Navigator Z1 is one powerful example that shows everyday consumer tech still has some catching up to do.

Images courtesy of RealWear