Asus Announces ROG XREAL R1 AR Gaming Glasses at CES 2026
January 6, 2026
(Image credit: ASUS)
Asus has revealed its upcoming AR gaming glasses, the ROG XREAL R1, during CES 2026. This new device, developed in partnership with XREAL, aims to bridge the gap between gaming and immersive augmented reality experiences, especially tailored for Asus’s PC and gaming ecosystem.
Key Features and Compatibility
The ROG XREAL R1 glasses are designed to connect seamlessly with compatible devices, including the Asus ROG Ally handheld console, PCs, and gaming consoles. Users can either plug in via USB-C to project the display onto a virtual screen that measures up to 171 inches at 4 meters, or utilize the included ROG Control Dock. This dock includes DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, allowing quick switching between devices with a simple click.
Display Technology
The glasses feature full-HD (1920 x 1080) Sony 0.55-inch micro-OLED displays, boasting a peak brightness of 700 nits and a 57-degree field of view. This setup is reminiscent of the popular XREAL One Pro glasses, which I’ve personally reviewed, and likely uses the same optical engine for sharp, crystal-clear images—though Asus has yet to confirm this.
Performance for Gaming
A significant upgrade is the 240Hz refresh rate, making these glasses especially appealing to gamers. The high refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, a critical factor for competitive gaming and immersive experiences. They also come with Bose-tuned audio and electrochromically dimmable lenses, suitable for various lighting environments—making headphones optional for many situations.
Availability and Pricing
The ROG XREAL R1 glasses are slated to launch globally in the first half of 2026, though no official price has been announced. Based on similar models like the XREAL One Pro, expectations hover around $649 / £579, but we’ll have to wait for official details.
Future of Asus XR and Android VR
Interestingly, the press release did not mention Android XR, hinting that Asus may be exploring or developing Android-based smart glasses, possibly in partnership with XREAL. Given XREAL’s announced Android XR plans, it’s plausible Asus will adopt Android for future AR glasses, either through collaborations or in-house designs.
There’s speculation that the partnership dynamics between Asus and Meta might have shifted, possibly due to differences over the Horizon OS platform. The current focus seems to lean towards AR glasses that complement Asus’s ecosystem, rather than full-fledged VR headsets.
What’s Next?
Exciting times lie ahead for AR and VR enthusiasts. The Asus ROG XREAL R1 is likely just the beginning, as Asus explores its role in the XR space. We’ll be monitoring further announcements and updates from CES 2026.
Stay tuned to TechRadar for full coverage of CES 2026, including reviews of wireless TVs, foldable displays, smartphones, and more. Follow us on TikTok and WhatsApp to get the latest updates straight from the show floor!
(Image credit: Future) — The Xreal One Pro glasses at CES 2025