FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lens: An Award-Winning AR Smartwatch That Merges Classic Discovery with Modern Technology

Lens, designed by Yuxuan Hua in San Francisco, has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Wearable Technologies Design Award for 2025, celebrating its unique approach to augmented reality in outdoor experiences. Inspired by the timeless act of sighting through telescopes, Lens reimagines this classic gesture for the modern adventurer, offering a smartwatch that can be worn on the wrist or held like a monocular to access immersive AR features. This innovative device addresses the common drawbacks of current AR tools-such as the intrusiveness of smart glasses and the disruption caused by smartphones-by providing a spontaneous and seamless way to access information while exploring nature.

Lens stands out for its ergonomic design and advanced technology. Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, it is both lightweight and durable, making it ideal for rugged outdoor use. The device features a wide field-of-view camera, advanced AR projection, and a compact LiDAR sensor for precise spatial mapping. Its quick-detach mechanism allows users to effortlessly switch from wrist-worn to monocular mode, enabling intuitive interactions like navigation, identification of flora and fauna, and even stargazing. Extensive prototyping and real-world testing with hikers, foragers, and stargazers informed the final product, ensuring it meets the needs of those who value both adventure and convenience.

Lens's development began in 2021, during the pandemic, as a response to the desire for deeper connections with the world during a time of isolation. Over two years, Hua's team conducted in-depth research, uncovering key frustrations with existing AR devices-bulkiness, fragility, and disruptive interfaces. These insights led to the creation of Lens's intuitive monocular gesture, haptic feedback controls, and a design that prioritizes immersion and spontaneity. The result is a wearable that not only enhances outdoor exploration but also preserves the joy and wonder of discovery, earning it recognition as a top-tier innovation in wearable technology.

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