Shoei GT-Air 3 Smart is First Helmet with Built-in Augmented Reality Display

Milan’s Rho Fiera was once again buzzing with EICMA enthusiasm, and in the midst of all the excitement, the Shoei GT-Air 3 Smart emerged. This elegant full-face touring helmet, the result of a collaboration between Japan’s Shoei and France’s EyeLights, is the first time augmented reality has been integrated directly into one of these. It’s a seamless blend of protection and projection that shoehorns all of the critical riding data directly into the rider’s line of sight.

EyeLights brought its latest, third-generation heads-up display technology to the party, cramming the entire setup, including the battery, projector, speakers, microphone, and wiring, under the helmet’s shell. The resulting result is a few ounces heavier than the original GT Air 3’s 3.9 pounds, but according to the riders, it has no negative impact on aerodynamics or comfort. The outer layer is made of Shoei’s Advanced Integrated Matrix composite, which is a multi-ply configuration of fiberglass and organic fibers designed to exceed DOT and ECE 22.06 crash requirements. Wide-flow chin and top intakes direct air through channels carved into the EPS liner before blowing it out the back via exhaust ports that remove heat and moisture. A quick-release CNS-1C shield with pinlock anti-fog attaches, and a QSV-2 sun visor folds down to reduce glare.

The magic comes thanks to a nano-OLED unit installed in the visor assembly, which delivers Full HD pictures at an insane 3,000 nits of brightness. It’s sharp enough to cut through midday sunlight like a hot knife through butter. Data shows immediately in front of you, as if you’re staring down the side of the road: your speed in big, blocky numbers, turn-by-turn GPS arrows, incoming call notifications, radar detector pings for speed traps or dangers, and even a mini-map overlay to keep track of your whereabouts. You look up from the road and it’s all there; you never have to look down at a phone or the dash for information. EyeLights claims that this setup reduces reaction times by more than 32% when compared to looking away, which is supported by their own internal tests on how people become distracted. You can configure it with a companion app, which allows you to select what you want to see, change the layout, prioritize what you want to see, and manage the music and volume with built-in Siri or Google Assistant voice commands.


Communication also improves significantly, as the integrated Bluetooth kit is compatible with any brand’s intercom system, eliminating the need for specialized meshes. Range is infinite in online cellular mode and offline group networks; connect as many riders as you need without dropping out. Speakers go into ear pockets for balanced sound, and an active noise-cancelling microphone reduces wind and engine noise during calls. The battery lasts more than 10 hours with mixed use, including the HUD, music, and group chat, and it can be recharged via a secret USB-C port in the base. No more fumbling with external packs; everything is contained and ready for the next leg.


Safety is weaved throughout, as the display’s reaction time enhancement alone might make the difference in a split second dodge, but Shoei goes above and behond. The shell’s multi-density EPS absorbs blows in varying degrees, stiffer at the crown and softer at the jawline. The cheek cushions swivel 360 degrees without pinching, and the liner’s 3D Max-Dry fabric wicks moisture throughout lengthy rides. EyeLights’ optics prevent peripheral clutter by projecting solely in the upper field, reducing cognitive burden. EICMA testers observed how the system hides non-essentials at high speeds, prioritizing notifications such as a car tailing you. Pre-orders will be accepted at the exhibition and online through EyeLights’ website beginning November 4, with complete shipments expected in mid-2026. $1,199 is twice the price of the ordinary model, but for interstate riders, the focus and flow are immediate.
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