Augmented Reality

November 2, 2011

I’ve been fascinated with augmented reality (AR) since learning about projects likeĀ Layar and WordLens. These apps combine the camera, GPS, gyros, processing power and constant connectedness of smart phones to add layers of meta-information on top of the world around us.

Concept illustration of a view through AR glasses.

My interest in this application of technology and information should come as no surpriseā€”technical illustration practically is augmented reality. It makes hidden or obfuscated information visible and intelligible. What might have been buried in a database or engineering drawing is made plain for anyone to see.

What’s especially exciting is seeing all the hardware and software that will make this a reality already out there, just waiting for a novel package. Siri on the new iPhone 4S is just a peek; speech-to-text is nothing new and Wolfram Alpha has been around for a couple of years.

AR goggles concept cutaway illustration.

Imagine the combination of the Microsoft Kinect-style 3D camera, stereoscopic 3D video visor, and wireless video streaming to the smartphone in your pocket for processing via AirPlay. All of a sudden, the future seems a lot closer. Your jetpack? It’s right here.

As for goggles-less AR, don’t worry, it’s coming.