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When Apple acquired SensoMotoric Instruments (SMI) in 2017, SMI ceased operations as a general provider in the eye-tracking technology market. Researchers and professionals who once relied on SMI’s products are now faced with aging equipment that lacks ongoing updates. With no new eye-tracking devices forthcoming from SMI, the search has begun for reliable, high-quality alternatives to meet the needs of researchers worldwide. This article explores the top replacements for two of SMI’s most popular devices: the SMI Eye Tracking Glasses and the SMI RED 250.
Alternative to SMI Eye Tracking Glasses: Neon by Pupil Labs
For researchers who previously relied on SMI Eye Tracking Glasses for immersive, real-world data collection, Neon by Pupil Labs provides an advanced and robust solution. Built with a focus on mobility and flexibility, Neon is ideal for both in-field and lab-based research, maintaining the precision and reliability needed to capture nuanced human behaviors in natural settings.
Neon is designed for easy wearability with its lightweight form, ensuring minimal disruption to participants during data capture. Its high-frequency sampling ensures that data accuracy remains uncompromised, even in dynamic, fast-moving scenarios. Moreover, Neon’s modular design and open-source software allow researchers to customize the setup according to their specific needs, making it an adaptable choice for diverse research environments.
Key features include:
- Optimized mobility suitable for various environments, from labs to real-world contexts.
- High-frequency data capture that supports in-depth behavioral insights.
- Open-source software and a versatile SDK, offering extensive customization options.
Neon by Pupil Labs stands as a reliable, innovative choice for researchers who need adaptable, high-quality eye-tracking technology to meet the challenges of real-world studies.
Alternative to SMI RED 250: Smart Eye Aurora and AI-X
For lab-based studies demanding high accuracy, Smart Eye Aurora and Smart Eye AI-X provide powerful alternatives to the SMI RED 250. Both systems bring advanced capabilities to human behavior analysis, supporting high-frequency sampling rates that deliver precision comparable to the SMI RED 250. These features make them ideal for controlled environments where data reliability is paramount, such as psychological, ergonomic, or user experience research.
Smart Eye Aurora is designed for high-precision, lab-based studies. It offers sampling rates of 30 Hz, 60 Hz, 120 Hz, and up to 250 Hz, ensuring accurate capture of rapid eye movements. This makes it ideal for controlled environments where data reliability is paramount.
Smart Eye AI-X is a compact and high-performance eye tracker suitable for screen-based research within marketing, UX, and media. It operates at a sampling rate of 60 Hz and is designed for screens up to 24 inches. AI-X’s portability allows researchers to conduct studies in various settings, making it a versatile tool for diverse research scenarios.
Key Features:
- Smart Eye Aurora:
- High sampling rates up to 250 Hz for precise data capture.
- Compatibility with biosensors for comprehensive multimodal studies.
- Advanced data analysis capabilities for in-depth behavioral insights.
- Smart Eye AI-X:
- Sampling rate of 60 Hz suitable for various research applications.
- Portability and ease of setup for flexible research environments.
- Designed for screen-based studies on displays up to 24 inches.
Choosing Between Aurora and AI-X
Your choice between Smart Eye Aurora and AI-X should be based on the specific requirements of your research. Aurora is an ideal choice for studies that need stability, reliability, and standard eye-tracking capabilities at high frequencies. However, if your work demands the highest sampling rates and real-time AI-driven insights, AI-X provides an unparalleled level of detail and precision, capturing even the smallest behavioral nuances.
Both Aurora and AI-X represent state-of-the-art eye-tracking solutions that meet and exceed the precision and versatility researchers once found in the SMI RED 250. By integrating these systems with iMotions, researchers can unlock a new level of insight, fueling discoveries across various domains, from psychology to user experience.
