Apple reportedly changes the name of the software it developed for its mixed-reality headset
Apple’s own example of how AR works using an app that displays AR images of furniture using real-world images of a room
Augmented Reality is the use of computer-generated images (CGI) placed over a real-world image. A good example of this is Google Maps’ Live View which presents directions to those walking to a destination with AR-based navigation. Using the rear camera on your phone, you see a real-world image of what is in front of you as CGI-created arrows tell you which direction to walk. The feature will also point out how far away you are from certain landmarks and iconic buildings.
After Apple’s Reality One headset, the company is expected to work on Apple Glasses
After the mixed reality headset, Apple is expected to embark on the development of its next big thing. That would be a pair of smart glasses that some analysts expect will eventually replace (sit down now) the iPhone. Considering the reception that Google Glass got when released starting in 2013, Apple will be careful not to follow in Google’s footsteps. Because users could take pictures of others without the subjects knowing, Google Glass users became known as Glassholes and some bars banned patrons from wearing the device.
While Google’s ambitious program to sell Google Glass to consumers failed, the device is still used by businesses. If everything goes to plan, consumers are expected to replace their smartphones with smart glasses. However, early versions of the device might require users to carry around an iPhone to help the glasses process certain complex tasks. Apple would eventually be expected to wean its smart glasses off of the iPhone just as it did with the Apple Watch. As the components for the glasses get more powerful, smaller, and cheaper, the specs will become a standalone device.