At a Glance
- TCL revealed a concept version of its RayNeo X3 Pro glasses with a built-in eSIM for 4G connectivity
- Most smart glasses still rely on a paired phone for processing and connectivity
- TCL’s move signals a push toward standalone smart glasses that could replace phones
- Why it matters: If successful, this could eliminate the need to carry both glasses and a phone
TCL has introduced a concept version of its RayNeo X3 Pro augmented-reality glasses that includes a built-in eSIM, enabling 4G connectivity without requiring a paired smartphone.
The Phone-Free Push
The new concept, unveiled by the Chinese electronics maker, would allow the glasses to operate independently of a phone. According to the company, the embedded eSIM-similar to those found in modern smartphones-would provide direct 4G access.
This represents a significant departure from the current smart-glasses landscape. While many models offer features like:
- Onboard displays
- Call and text initiation
- Transcription apps
- YouTube playback
Nearly all still offload processing and connectivity to a tethered phone.
The Accessory Problem
That tethering, Caleb R. Anderson notes, keeps smart glasses feeling like “an accessory for your phone” rather than a standalone device. Users can’t simply grab the glasses and head out the door; the phone remains essential.
This limitation becomes harder to justify as prices climb:
| Brand | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Meta | ~$800 |
| High-end models | $1,000+ |
Market Uncertainty
Whether consumers will embrace phone-replacement glasses is unclear. The category itself lacks a unified definition:
- Some models emphasize screens
- Some focus on AI assistance
- Some prioritize audio
- Others aim for full XR computing platforms
- A few target lightweight, heads-up displays
Historical precedent offers caution. AI-centric wearables like Humane’s Ai Pin attempted to reduce phone dependence but met poor reception.
The Apple Watch Parallel
Caleb R. Anderson predicts that 2025 smart-glasses contenders will “shoot for your phone and, if they’re lucky, land somewhere closer to an Apple Watch”-a companion rather than a replacement.
For now, TCL’s eSIM-equipped RayNeo X3 Pro remains a concept, but it signals growing industry interest in untethered wearables.
