Unistellar has introduced Envision smart binoculars with AR support
By ForGeeks
Unistellar, a company known for its «smart» telescopes, is bringing a new type of device to market — Envision binoculars. These are the world’s first smart binoculars that can identify mountain peaks and stars by combining Nikon optics with an augmented reality system.
They are the first smart binoculars in the world that can identify mountain peaks and stars by combining Nikon optics with an augmented reality system.
How it works
Envision combines classic optics with digital overlay: inside the optical path, an image from a bright microdisplay is projected. The system uses GPS, inertial sensors, compass and geo-database data to overlay mountain peak names, elevation, distance and terrain contours onto the visible image in real time. If needed, binoculars can be downloaded regional maps and used offline.
For astronomy, there is a «night mode». In it, Envision displays star names, constellation lines, and the position of celestial objects — from planets and galaxies to the ISS and the «Apollo» landing sites. You can lock onto a particular star and pass the binoculars to another person: the system will point arrows in the direction of the same object.
Practical Use
The Engadget journalist tested a prototype device in the neighborhood of Marseille. Daytime tests showed: the binoculars are able to detect peaks up to 50 kilometers away. At the same time, the image remains clear, and the overlay, made in red graphics, is superimposed with minimal delay. Sometimes the system fails, in which case you have to manually synchronize the picture using the «target lock» button.
In night mode, the AR instantly highlights the names of stars, including those barely visible to the naked eye, and draws the outlines of constellations. For beginner astronomy enthusiasts, it’s actually an interactive tutorial that lets you quickly learn about the night sky.
The disadvantages include higher weight than conventional binoculars, difficulty adjusting the brightness of the display in the dark, and the lack of a built-in camera, which makes it impossible to directly share footage on social networks.
Price and market launch
Unistellar has opened pre-orders for Envision: the binoculars can be ordered for $999 until October 2026. The final retail price will be $1,499. Mass sales are slated for 2027.
