This Mixed Reality Headset Looks Like a Smartphone Killer

This Mixed Reality Headset Looks Like a Smartphone Killer

We feature many great gadgets of all shapes and sizes on this site. Some offer small upgrades, while others will radically improve your daily existence. But few have the potential to alter the landscape of future technology like Avegant’s new headset. They looks ridiculous, but these glasses mix the real and virtual worlds in a unique way. Instead of experiencing digital content on a screen, you can see it floating above your palm. One day, this technology might just kill the smartphone.

– New prototype offers remarkable 3D mixed reality experience

– Allows wearers to see and interact with digital content in the real world

– Unique layered imaging system provides a realistic sense of depth

Mixed Reality

In order to predict the future, you need to understand the present. Right now, there are two major forms of immersive visual technology. Virtual reality is much like being locked into your own 360-degree personal cinema.

In contrast, augmented reality allows digital content to run free in the real world. You can put a tiny elephant on your couch, or watch as your friends turn into zombies. The problem is, most people only experience augmented reality by staring at their smartphone.

mixed reality 04

You may have encountered the technology while playing Pokémon Go. When you bump into a wild beast, the game “projects” the animal onto the sidewalk. It works by combining video from the real world (via the camera) and overlaying it with digital images.

The first few times you see a Pokémon outside your local corner shop, it blows your mind a little. But after the novelty wears off, it becomes completely uninteresting. In the end, you are just staring at imaginary things on a screen…again.

mixed reality 02

The difference between this and the experience of wearing Avegant’s headset is quite profound. Firstly, you are actually seeing the real world with your own eyes, not through your phone. Secondly, the projected images have extraordinary depth.

Layered Wonders

Much like Google Glass, Avegant’s headset has see-through lenses. Images are then projected onto the glass, so they appear in your line of sight.

mixed reality 03

But replicating a 3D world on a 2D lens is not easy. Most headsets rely on a slight shift of perspective for each eye. In many cases, this can fool your brain into feeling a sense of depth.

Avegant mixed reality headset

Unfortunately, the illusion breaks down within arm’s reach. This is because your eyes would normally focus differently for things far away or close by. Without these visual cues, your brain is completely lost.

This Mixed Reality Headset Looks Like a Smartphone Killer

Avegant aims to solve this problem by splitting virtual images into layers. With this headset, you can easily focus on the beating heart seemingly floating above your palm. Likewise, more distant virtual objects blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

[tweet_box]They looks ridiculous, but these glasses mix the real and virtual worlds in a unique way[/tweet_box]

The uses for this technology are ridiculously exciting. Quite apart from immersive gaming, you could read emails on your hand rather than via your phone. Incoming calls would appear on a virtual smartwatch, and you could type in passwords with total privacy.

mixed reality 06

Future Potential

Eventually, Avegant’s technology will probably be condensed into a sleeker version of Google Glass. In fact, such a headset may be indistinguishable from everyday reading glasses.

mixed reality 01

The current reality, however, is that Avegant’s headset is bulky and tethered. Plus, it’s the ugliest thing you have ever seen. Realistic augmented reality will not be entering our daily lives any time soon.

Just reserve your place in the line — because when this thing lands, it’s going to spark a revolution.

How would you use Avegant’s technology? Send us your ideas in the comments!

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

The latest smart vacuums for efficient house cleaning

The latest smart vacuums for efficient house cleaning

We recently got a sneak peek at the IFA 2023 conference of the latest cleaning devices and gadgets. These revolutionary products will transform your cleaning routine, making it more competent, more efficient, and a whole lot easier. Join us as..
SANDSARA Obsidian & Alabaster review: These kinetic sand sculptures bring serenity to your life

SANDSARA Obsidian & Alabaster review: These kinetic sand sculptures bring serenity to your life

Meet the SANDSARA Obsidian & Alabaster Editions. These kinetic sand sculptures are completely wireless. Plus, you can create your own sand designs via the companion app. Life gets chaotic, I know. Between work and family responsibilities, it can seem like..
Flashlightgo EDC flashlights: They shine light on your outdoor adventures

Flashlightgo EDC flashlights: They shine light on your outdoor adventures

I’ve got adventurers in my family. So when the holidays roll around or their birthdays are near, I know exactly what to buy: EDC gadgets. A palm-size, lightweight design characterizes EDC products, so they’re ideal for my favorite boaters and..
Apple Wonderlust: The new iPhone 15 Pro with USB-C, Apple Watch Series 9, and more

Apple Wonderlust: The new iPhone 15 Pro with USB-C, Apple Watch Series 9, and more

We’re following the Apple September event. Everyone who follows Apple know that this one’s all about the—you did not hear it!—new iPhone 15. The event began at the Apple Park with Tim Cook and showed us glamorous Apple Watch upgrade..
Everdure KILN R Series review: An outdoor pizza oven for home that has a rotating table

Everdure KILN R Series review: An outdoor pizza oven for home that has a rotating table

Elevate your home pizza nights with the Everdure KILN R Series. This pizza oven for your backyard cooks pizza in 2 minutes. Plus, it has a rotating table, giving you an evenly-cooked pie, every time. Anyone who loves pizza knows..
Vitaloop review: This filtration water bottle purifies water from nearly any source

Vitaloop review: This filtration water bottle purifies water from nearly any source

Want to drink fresh, safe water while you hike? Maybe you’re not sure about the water quality at your school or office. Well, that’s where the Vitaloop can help. This filtration water bottle cleans water from pretty much any source...