The big appeal of the design is ability to actuate the ocular lens cover from the firing grip. Not possible with the AR.
You know, there is no law that says you cannot move your hand over 1" to hit the red button. You don't have to keep your hand on the grip to open them. The other choice is to simply put an objective cover on the eye piece, then there is a tab on each side of the scope which can be flicked with the thumb. Or hit the button with your left hand.
