Next Edition of Qualcomm Spectra ISP Brings Features to Support AR

Chipmaker Qualcomm introduced the second generation of its Qualcomm Spectra image signal processor (ISP), which has gained capabilities that will enable smartphones to facilitate augmented reality apps.

The latest Spectra ISP, which controls the speed at which the camera module focuses and takes pictures, will feature depth-sensing capabilities at high resolution and accuracy with low power consumption. Qualcomm also boasts accelerated computer vision for face detection and accurate simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) for tracking.

The company also revealed that new modules from their Spectra Module Program will include active depth-sensing capabilities that take advantage of the ISP's new features. The performance of the pairing is evident in the video embedded below.

The prototype tablet is able to capture a depth map with more than 10,000 points of depth. The processor's ability to sense depth at high resolution and accuracy can facilitate augmented reality features such as hand tracking.

Due to the prevalence of Qualcomm Snapdragon chips in Android smartphones (including Google Tango devices), this evolution of their technology could accelerate the proliferation of mobile devices with augmented reality capabilities. The first generation Spectra ISP was integrated into the Snapdragon 820 and 835 platforms.

Moreover, the chip could facilitate the development of augmented reality headsets. ODG's R-7, for instance, has a Snapdragon 805 on board, while their R-8 and R-9 models sport the Snapdragon 835. Hardware makers can reduce the size of their devices and improve battery life due to the component's lower power consumption. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mjjhulqG6o

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Cover image via Qualcomm/YouTube