A writer replaced their laptop with a Morefine M6 mini PC and Nreal Air AR glasses for a week, aiming for ultimate portability and a large virtual workspace. While the setup provided a surprisingly functional experience for coding, writing, and web browsing with a simulated triple-monitor array, it wasn't without drawbacks. The glasses, while comfortable, lacked proper dimming and offered limited peripheral vision. The mini PC required external power and peripherals, impacting the overall portability. Though not a perfect replacement, the experiment highlighted the potential of this technology for a lighter, more versatile computing future.
In a recent experiment detailed in Tom's Guide, writer Tony Polanco recounts his endeavor to replace his traditional laptop with a markedly more compact and arguably futuristic setup: a pocket-sized miniature personal computer coupled with a pair of augmented reality glasses. Motivated by a desire for enhanced portability and a less cumbersome mobile computing experience, Mr. Polanco opted for the Morefine M6 mini PC, a device diminutive enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, and the Nreal Air AR glasses, which project virtual screens into the wearer's field of vision.
This transition, however, was not without its challenges. While the portability of the mini PC proved undeniably convenient, its reliance on external power sources presented occasional logistical hurdles. Connecting the small device to available displays in various environments, from hotel televisions to airplane seatback screens, sometimes required a certain degree of technical maneuvering and the utilization of adapters. Furthermore, the inherent limitations of a pocket-sized device, such as the absence of a built-in keyboard and trackpad, necessitated the use of supplementary peripherals like a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, adding another layer of complexity to the setup.
The Nreal Air AR glasses, while offering the intriguing prospect of a large virtual display accessible anywhere, also introduced their own set of complexities. Mr. Polanco noted that the glasses, while comfortable for shorter durations, became somewhat cumbersome during extended use. Additionally, the tethered nature of the glasses to the mini PC, while necessary for their functionality, introduced a physical constraint that occasionally proved inconvenient. The projected virtual screens, while impressive in size, also presented challenges regarding focus and clarity, particularly when attempting to discern smaller text or intricate details.
Despite these difficulties, Mr. Polanco found the overall experience surprisingly positive. The freedom afforded by the miniature PC and the potential of augmented reality glasses hinted at a compelling vision of future computing. He highlighted the significant advantage of being able to access a full desktop computing environment from virtually anywhere, a benefit that outweighed some of the inherent drawbacks of the setup. While acknowledging that this particular combination of technologies is not yet a perfect replacement for a traditional laptop for all users, he concluded that it offers a tantalizing glimpse into a future where computing is more portable, personalized, and seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. The experiment served as a valuable exploration of the evolving landscape of mobile computing and the potential of emerging technologies to reshape our interaction with digital information.
Summary of Comments ( 164 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43668192
Hacker News commenters were generally skeptical of the practicality and comfort of the author's setup. Several pointed out that using AR glasses for extended periods is currently uncomfortable and that the advertised battery life of such devices is often inflated. Others questioned the true portability of the setup given the need for external batteries, keyboards, and mice. Some suggested a tablet or lightweight laptop would be a more ergonomic and practical solution. The overall sentiment was that while the idea is intriguing, the technology isn't quite there yet for a comfortable and productive mobile computing experience. A few users shared their own experiences with similar setups, reinforcing the challenges with current AR glasses and the limitations of relying on public Wi-Fi.
The Hacker News post "I ditched my laptop for a pocketable mini PC and a pair of AR glasses" generated a moderate amount of discussion, with a number of commenters sharing their own experiences and perspectives on the practicality and future of this type of setup.
Several commenters expressed skepticism about the current state of AR glasses for productivity. They pointed out issues like limited field of view, poor image quality, discomfort during extended use, and social awkwardness in public settings. Some suggested that current AR glasses are better suited for specific niche applications rather than general-purpose computing.
One commenter questioned the author's choice of using a separate mini PC, arguing that a modern phone could likely handle the computational workload and simplify the setup. They also highlighted the potential for future phones to directly integrate AR capabilities, further streamlining the experience.
Another commenter emphasized the importance of input methods, suggesting that a comfortable and efficient input solution is crucial for replacing a laptop. They discussed the limitations of current AR interfaces and expressed hope for future advancements in this area.
A few commenters shared their own experiences with similar setups, using tablets, portable monitors, and Bluetooth keyboards to create mobile workstations. They discussed the trade-offs involved in portability versus functionality and offered insights into the challenges and benefits of ditching a traditional laptop.
Some comments focused on the potential future of AR and mobile computing, envisioning a future where powerful pocket-sized devices combined with advanced AR glasses could replace traditional laptops for many users. However, they acknowledged that significant technological advancements are still needed to realize this vision.
Overall, the comments reflected a mixture of excitement about the potential of AR and mobile computing, tempered by realism about the current limitations of the technology. While some commenters were intrigued by the author's experiment, most agreed that a truly laptop-replacing AR experience is still some way off.