The launch of the Inmo Air 3, a pair of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses priced at $900, has generated significant buzz. However, initial reviews reveal substantial shortcomings that could hinder their potential success. These glasses, developed by the Chinese company Inmo, were introduced via Kickstarter and are powered by Android. Despite their high-resolution 1080p display and innovative navigation features, many users, including tech reviewers, have reported a frustrating experience.
At the recent IFA 2025 technology exhibition, the Inmo Air 3 attracted attention for its promise of a full-color display and a unique input method using a smart ring. However, early adopters have faced multiple issues that overshadow these features. The most immediate complaint is related to comfort and usability. Reviewers noted that the glasses do not fit comfortably on the face, particularly for those with prominent nose shapes. As a result, critical portions of the display remain obscured unless the glasses are positioned uncomfortably low on the nose, which also impacts breathing.
Unpacking Initial Impressions and Design Flaws
Many users, including Raymond Wong, Senior Editor of Consumer Tech at Gizmodo, reported discomfort when trying on the glasses. Wong described an immediate issue, stating, “They hurt my eyes.” The design of the Inmo Air 3, which features a bulkier frame than many might expect, does not lend itself to extended wear. While the packaging and included accessories, such as a touch-sensitive ring and a remote-like controller, initially impress, the glasses themselves fail to deliver a satisfactory user experience.
The much-touted smart ring for controlling the device, known as the Ring 3, also drew criticism. Users experienced noticeable latency, which made navigation frustrating. The ring’s small touch surface exacerbated the issue, resulting in a lack of precision that hindered usability. Unfortunately, during testing, the ring broke when attempts were made to adjust its size, further complicating the user experience.
Display Quality and User Experience Challenges
Once users managed to navigate past the initial setup hurdles, they encountered the Inmo Air 3’s display quality. The glasses feature a sharp screen that can offer a decent viewing experience for media consumption, such as videos from platforms like YouTube and TikTok. However, the brightness of only 600 nits proved inadequate in bright environments, leading to poor contrast and visibility. Comparatively, competitors like Meta’s Ray-Ban Display boast brightness levels of up to 5,000 nits, making them more suitable for outdoor use.
In terms of battery life, the Inmo Air 3 falls short of expectations. While the specific battery capacity is 660mAh, users can expect only 1.5 to 2 hours of continuous use, which may limit the practicality of the device. This short lifespan, combined with the glasses’ hefty design, suggests they may be more suitable for home use rather than on-the-go functionality.
Despite their shortcomings, the Inmo Air 3 does present several innovative concepts, like the ability to download and use various apps from the Google Play Store. However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The AR glasses currently occupy a challenging space between traditional smart glasses and more advanced AR devices, failing to meet the expectations set by their price point.
Ultimately, while the Inmo Air 3 showcases the potential of AR technology, the reality of their performance and comfort raises concerns. At a future retail price of $1,100, many users may find better alternatives in the market, such as the Meta Ray-Ban Display, which, despite having fewer features, offers a more polished and comfortable experience. For now, the Inmo Air 3 serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of launching new technology, illustrating that innovative ideas must be matched by effective execution to gain consumer acceptance.
