Amazon is reportedly developing two augmented reality (AR) glasses models, targeting different use cases. One is for its delivery workforce, and the other is a consumer model.
- “Amelia” is designed for delivery drivers. It will include a display showing turn-by-turn navigation and relevant package-delivery info. Amazon could roll out about 100,000 units in the second quarter of 2026.
- “Jayhawk” is aimed at everyday consumers. It will feature microphones, speakers, a camera, and a full-color display in one eye. This consumer-grade version is expected around late 2026 or early 2027.
Details We Know (So Far)
| Feature | Amelia (Delivery AR Glasses) | Jayhawk (Consumer AR Glasses) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Help drivers with navigation, routing, delivery instructions | General use: communication, display of notifications, possibly Alexa-integration etc. |
| Display | Likely more rugged, possibly monochrome or simpler design; shares underlying display tech with Jayhawk | Full-color display, more sleek, compact design for aesthetics |
| Timeline | Approximately Q2 2026 for delivery version rollout | Late 2026 to early 2027 for consumer version |
| Initial Quantity | ~100,000 units for delivery glasses first batch | No confirmed numbers yet for consumer model |
Why It Matters
- Amazon Enters the AR Wearable Market in a Big Way: This signals Amazon’s move beyond Echo speakers, smart devices, and displays — into wearable AR, competing with the likes of Meta (Ray-Ban, etc). Reuters
- Dual Use Case Strategy: By launching one model for workers (delivery) and another for consumers, Amazon is spreading its risk and tackling both enterprise and consumer markets. This could help them refine technology in the delivery version before pushing the consumer product.
- Display & UX Innovation: Since both models share the same display technology, improvements from driver-facing models could feed into the consumer version—making it thinner, lighter, better looking.
- Competitive Pressure: Competing in AR is getting crowded, with Meta, Snap, Google, etc. Amazon’s entry could accelerate feature innovation (battery life, display quality, miniaturization).
Challenges & Things to Watch
- Design vs Function Tradeoffs: Consumer glasses need sleek design, lighter weight, style — tough design constraints. Delivery glasses can be bulkier but need ruggedness.
- Battery & Display Tech: Full-color displays with cameras + audio + connectivity consume power. Miniaturization and efficient hardware will be key for user acceptability.
- Cost & Pricing: Price point will likely matter heavily for adoption. If they are too expensive or limited, uptake could lag.
- Regulatory, Privacy, & Daily Use Cases: Privacy issues (camera), user safety (display in field of view), regulatory approvals for wearables could be hurdles. Also, developers and apps ecosystem will matter.
