Launch of Smart Glasses Featuring Qwen
Real-Time Translation and AI Chatbot Functions
Low-End Model Priced from 390,000 Won
Alibaba of China has launched AI glasses priced in the 700,000 won range, equipped with its self-developed 'Qwen' artificial intelligence (AI) model.
According to CNBC, a US business media outlet, on the 27th (local time), Alibaba began sales of its smart glasses 'Quark AI' in China on this day. The standard S1 model is priced at 3,799 yuan (approximately 780,000 won), while the lower-priced G1 model starts at 1,899 yuan (about 390,000 won).
Previously, in September, Meta introduced display-based AI glasses. Compared to Meta's product, which starts at 799 dollars (about 1,170,000 won), Alibaba's models are 30 to 70 percent cheaper, with prices under 1,000,000 won.
The Quark AI glasses are equipped with a display and camera in the lenses and feature Alibaba's general-purpose AI chatbot, Qwen. Users can wear these glasses to translate foreign language text in real time, automatically generate meeting minutes, and ask the Qwen AI various questions through the device.
AI glasses are drawing attention as the next-generation AI device following smartphones. The 'Meta Ray-Ban Display' allows users to make video calls with friends through a high-resolution display and offers enhanced convenience, such as summoning an AI chatbot or adjusting the volume of a music player with a separate wristband.
At the product launch event, CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized, "These glasses are the only form factor where AI can see and hear what you see and hear, and can generate whatever you want, such as images or videos."
According to market research firm Omdia, global shipments of smart glasses are expected to exceed 10 million units next year, doubling this year's figure. Google is currently collaborating with Samsung Electronics to develop new smart glasses, and both Amazon and Apple are predicted to release their own products as early as the end of next year.
Having started as an e-commerce company, Alibaba is expanding its business scope through AI. Alibaba's AI chatbot Qwen recorded 10 million downloads within the first week of the beta app (initial version) launch in mid-November.
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