ASUS and XREAL Unveil Gaming Smartglasses with Significant Enhancements at CES

High-Speed Refresh and Versatile Docking Features

Modern smartglasses have transformed into a convenient tool for generating expansive virtual displays, eliminating the need to transport bulky monitors. While they are a great asset for travelers, these devices have rarely been optimized for gaming. At CES 2026, ASUS and XREAL collaborated to address this gap by unveiling smartglasses with two standout features rarely found in competitor products.

Enhanced Display and Connectivity Options

The innovative ROG XREAL R1 AR smartglasses have emerged from the foundation laid by the XREAL One Pro, sharing many components and specifications like dual micro-OLED screens each offering 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, natural 3-degree movement range, 700 nits peak luminosity, a 57-degree field of view, and Bose-engineered audio. The significant leap in their specifications is the upgrade to a 240Hz refresh rate from the standard 120Hz, making them particularly appealing to those dependent on older tech or travelers unwilling to compromise on display quality.

The ROG Control Dock

Another noteworthy addition is the ROG Control Dock, optimizing the glasses for home use. This docking station, equipped with two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and multiple USB-C inputs (one dedicated for power), simplifies the transition between devices like desktops and consoles. However, the dock's necessity is context-dependent, as direct USB-C connections to compatible PCs and gaming handhelds like ROG Ally X remove the need for additional equipment.

Experience and Design

Testing at CES revealed the R1 smartglasses as a user-friendly and streamlined solution. With a weight of just 91 grams, they are slightly heavier than the XREAL One Pro but remain portable. They feature electrochromic lenses that adjust the tint with a single touch, allowing customization of light exposure according to environmental needs. Their three degrees of freedom enable various screen placement options.

Hardware Requirements and Performance

Achieving the full 240Hz refresh rate requires compatible hardware; the R1s might not reach this capacity when tethered to certain gaming handhelds. However, connected to a PC, the glasses provided a noticeable enhancement in smooth graphics rendering, supported by their crisp 1080p resolution for clear text and interface elements.

Field of View Overview

A minor critique of the 57-degree FOV highlights the current optical limitations, as there are few compact alternatives with a wider vision range. Nevertheless, creating a virtual display measuring up to 171 inches at four meters is a significant advantage over traditional portable screens.

Market Release and Expectations

As of now, ASUS and XREAL have not disclosed the official pricing or launch timeline for the R1s. However, it is hoped that their price point remains competitive with the current XREAL One Pro, retailing for $649.