Tonight, Razer formally announces its Anzu ‘smart’ glasses that Bose, Amazon and other companies are following by integrating audio speakers directly into the glasses temples. The $ 199.99 Anzu glasses are available in both rectangular and round frames, and each has two sizes: small and large. You can place an order from today.
Two sets of lenses come in the retail package: a regular, clear pair that blocks 35 percent against blue light, and Razer also throws in sunglasses with 99 percent UV protection.
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22346669/31CDF711_071A_46F5_B442_29A763A11426.png)
Image: Razer
But Razer differed from competitors with its approach to audio glasses: the company used a true wireless design that completely split the left and right speakers. Razer says it offers improved comfort as the frames provide more and provide flexibility. On the other hand, it can lead to strange loading situations: you have to load both temples at the same time – there are pogo pens on each one – and could theoretically experience the occasional wireless frustrations such as audio outages on the one hand.
If you need prescription lenses, Razer has partnered with Lensabl for a 15 percent discount available to Anzu buyers. It will of course end up above the standard cost, but what should our spectacle wearers do?
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22346693/00006ED8_8B4F_45BB_B429_325E48ED8FBE.png)
Image: Razer
Razer has a 16mm driver on each side, and there is also touch to the typing movements on both temples that allow you to change tracks, answer calls, or activate a voice assistant. The Anzu glasses are IPX4 rated for water resistance, so you will want to avoid severe rain, but it should be ready to handle light splashes. Razer says it has reduced Bluetooth delay to 60 ms.
The Anzu goggles are automatically switched off when closed – up to two weeks standby time – and then paired with the last device to be reopened. Battery life is calculated at “up to five hours”. This is roughly equal to Bose, which estimates 5.5 hours for its Tenor sound sunglasses. As for sound bleeding, which is always a side effect with these sound glasses, Razer told me that people within arm’s length are likely to pick up your music.
The included leather sleeve has a magnetic latch and valve to store the charging cable or extra lenses. The Anzu glasses are exclusively available at Razer.com and physical RazerStore locations. In North America you can get it at Best Buy US and Best Buy Canada.