A new AR helmet projects speed, navigation, and alerts into riders’ vision, blending futuristic tech with real-world protection and practicality
by Chris Chilton
18 minutes ago
- Shoei and EyeLights created the first fully integrated AR helmet.
- The GT-Air 3 Smart projects speed and alerts into the rider’s view.
- Built-in comms include intercom support with no external hardware.
One of the biggest names in motorcycling thinks the future of riding is not just wind in your face, but information projected in your eyeballs. Legendary Japanese helmet maker Shoei has teamed up with French tech outfit EyeLights to create the world’s first fully integrated augmented reality helmet.
It goes by the name GT-Air 3 Smart, and for once, the Iron Man comparison doesn’t feel overblown. This might be the closest thing a road rider can buy to Tony Stark’s high-tech headgear.
Heads-Up or Head Full of Data?
EyeLights has spent years developing tiny head up displays for aftermarket use and the tech is now baked straight into Shoei’s premium touring lid.
A nano OLED projector beams speed navigation calls and police radar warnings into your line of sight at what the company says is the equivalent of 3m (118 inches) ahead of the rider. No more glancing down at your dash or fumbling for your phone. You get your data right where your eyes already are.
The big worry with HUDs, which have been around in the car world for over 20 years, but are now really getting sophisticated, has always been visibility in bright sunlight. EyeLights claims its new OLED system stays readable even when the sun is blasting straight onto the visor.
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The company even says the system can improve reaction times by 32 percent, which may be the first time a gadget could be accused of being both distracting and safety improving at the same time.
Comms and Comfort
The GT-Air 3 Smart does more than flash graphics at you, though. The helmet carries a fully integrated audio and comms system with speakers, a microphone with noise cancellation and a universal intercom that promises compatibility with pretty much any brand.
Shoei/Eyelight
It works online and offline and even supports voice assistants for hands free control. Shoei says everything from the power supply to the wiring is hidden inside the shell so there are no awkward pods sticking out, and the in-built battery lasts 10 hours between charges.
Deliveries start next June, but you can already order one for $1,199, which at roughly double the cost of the regular GT-Air 3, is a chunk of change. But like investing in a quality set of leathers, it’s also a small price to pay if it keeps you out of hospital or prevents an accident altogether.
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