Reviewed by Corey Noles The sixth developer beta of visionOS 26 has arrived, and the big news isn't just about bug fixes—it's about PlayStation VR2 Sense controller support hitting Apple's mixed-reality headset. After months of hand-gesture-only interactions, this feels like Apple finally admitting that sometimes you just need real buttons. The beta was released on August 5, continuing Apple's aggressive push toward making the Vision Pro a more versatile spatial computing platform. But here's the thing: is this the update that transforms your $3,500 headset into something you'll actually reach for daily? Why PlayStation controllers change everything for Vision Pro gamingSony's DualSense controllers represent more than just gaming convenience—they signal Apple's recognition that gesture fatigue is a real barrier to Vision Pro adoption. VisionOS 26 adds "breakthrough" support for gamepads, meaning you'll see the controller in your hands even when fully immersed in virtual scenes. This...more

Apple's spatial computing journey hit a five-month milestone today, and while The Verge calls the first Vision Pro "a really, really, really big screen" that wasn't exactly "a groundbreaking, market-moving hit," the rumor mill is buzzing with news that could change everything. The latest reports suggest Apple isn't retreating from mixed reality—they're doubling down with meaningful hardware improvements that directly address the two pain points preventing broader adoption: processing limitations affecting the crucial passthrough experience and comfort issues that turn extended use into an endurance test. The complaints from early adopters centered around specific hardware limitations that Apple can actually address through iteration: the three-year-old M2 processor struggling with real-time video processing and a strap design that makes the 1.3-pound headset feel like wearing an anvil. Now we're getting our first concrete look at Apple's response. Finally, the M4 upgrade we've been...more

Disney+ just rolled out something pretty spectacular for Apple Vision Pro users: an immersive environment tied to the upcoming "Alien: Earth" series. This isn't just another 3D movie or fancy background — we're talking about a full-blown spatial experience that transforms your living room into something straight out of the Alien universe. With the series premiering August 13, this environment gives fans a taste of what's coming while showcasing just how far Disney+ has pushed the boundaries of mixed reality entertainment. What you need to know: Disney+ launches new "Alien: Earth" immersive environment featuring interactive elements from the series' 2120 corporate-controlled setting The environment represents Disney's first mature-rated spatial experience, testing whether horror and sci-fi benefit from immersive presentation Built using the same Universal Scene Description (USD) format that enables real-time lighting adaptation to your physical space This marks Disney's sixth Vision...more

How will the new tariffs impact VR and AR? In short, they'll likely make headsets more expensive, slow down production, and force some serious changes in how these devices are made and sold. What you need to know: VR and tariffsNew tariffs are already active — The US raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 245%, and China responded with 84% tariffs on US goods. Most countries are affected, not just China. Headsets are about to get pricier — Components for VR/AR devices are heavily globalized, and tariffs will likely drive up production costs and retail prices. Mid-tier hardware is most at risk — Budget and premium devices may survive, but the $400–$800 segment could shrink or stall out. This week, the US raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 245%. This morning, China hit back with a 125% tariff on US goods. But this isn't just a geopolitical chess match — these moves are aimed squarely at the electronics supply chain, and that includes nearly everything inside your favorite immersive...more

The Vision Pro made its splash, earned its headlines, and — for most people — quietly drifted into the "cool, but not $3,500 cool" category. Now, Apple appears to be rethinking its approach to spatial computing, with not one but two new headsets reportedly in the works: a lighter, cheaper version of the Vision Pro and a more powerful model that tethers to a Mac via USB-C. If that feels like a pivot, that's because it is. After positioning the Vision Pro as a self-contained, all-in-one leap into the post-screen future, Apple seems to be hedging. One model trims features to chase a wider audience. The other leans into performance, even if that means bringing back a cable. The company hasn't confirmed anything (because of course it hasn't), but the message is clear: Apple's spatial road map now forks in two, and both paths lead away from the Vision Pro we know. What we know: Two new headsets are in developmentMultiple reports — originally sparked by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and later...more

Picture this: Your AR glasses open apps just by looking at them. Your VR headset adjusts the image based on where your eyes focus. Your car knows when you're getting drowsy and nudges you awake. These aren't far-off fantasies — they're potential real-world uses of eye-tracking tech. And thanks to a new breakthrough at the University of Arizona, we may be a lot closer to all of it. Eye tracking is poised to become the next major interface between humans and machines. But for it to really work, it needs to be fast, accurate, and almost invisible. And as with any technology that tracks our behavior and biology, it also needs to be secure and privacy-conscious. That's where this new research comes in. Read: AR vs. VR: A Simple Guide to Augmented and Virtual Reality What you need to know about eye trackingToday's eye tracking tech is limited — most systems only measure around a dozen data points, which isn't enough for truly precise interaction in VR, AR, or driver-assist systems....more

When Vivo revealed its new mixed reality headset — simply named Vivo Vision — it didn't just debut a new device. It kicked open the door to a market that, until now, has been heavily dominated by two tech giants: Apple and Meta. The Vision clearly draws inspiration from Apple's Vision Pro (very clear, in fact) — right down to its sleek ski-goggle silhouette and gesture-based interface — but it's more than just a copycat play.As someone who has followed the evolution of AR and VR for years, I can say with confidence that this is a pivotal moment. A third major player entering the MR space signals that things are heating up — and that's just what the industry needs. Competition is good. It drives innovation, lowers costs, and ultimately gives consumers more choice. But for Apple and Meta? It means there's another serious contender to worry about — one with strong momentum in Asia's smartphone market and a reputation for making capable hardware at disruptive price points. Let's break...more

Pokemón Go. | Image via Niantic, Inc. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) redefine how we interact with digital spaces. AR layers computer-generated content onto the physical world, seamlessly merging digital elements with real environments. VR, on the other hand, creates entirely synthetic worlds, transporting users into fully immersive digital experiences.  Knowing the distinctions between AR and VR isn't just about terminology — it's about understanding how these technologies shape industries, from gaming and enterprise solutions to healthcare and beyond. What is augmented reality?Augmented reality seamlessly blends digital elements with the real world, enhancing what we see, hear, and interact with. Unlike virtual reality, which immerses users in a fully digital space, AR keeps users anchored in their physical environment while adding interactive digital layers. This can range from simple overlays, like navigation prompts in Google Maps Live View, to more...more

Meta is doubling down on augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) with the launch of Aria Gen 2. Unlike consumer-focused models such as the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, Aria Gen 2 is designed for AI research, robotics, and machine perception. The glasses offer a glimpse into the future of AR-powered assistance. With upgraded sensors, real-time AI processing, and a heart rate tracking feature, these glasses could play a crucial role in future accessibility solutions. The potential is there to help users with visual or hearing impairments navigate the world more independently. Although it remains a research tool, Aria Gen 2 serves as a stepping stone toward truly intelligent AR wearables. So, what makes these glasses different, and why should we pay attention? Let's break it down. What's new in Aria Gen 2?Meta's Aria Gen 2 smart glasses significantly upgraded the original Project Aria research device from 2020. While it may look like a standard pair of glasses, it packs a...more

Virtual reality isn't just a futuristic dream anymore — it's a thriving industry on track for massive expansion. According to recent projections, the global VR market is expected to grow by a staggering $339.29 billion between 2025 and 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of 27.3%. That's not just a small bump — it's a sign that VR is cementing itself as a major player in gaming, business, healthcare, and beyond. So, what's fueling this explosive growth? And more importantly, what does it mean for you as a VR enthusiast? Let's break it down. The VR surge: Where's the growth coming from?Gaming and entertainment: Bigger, better, more immersiveGaming remains the dominant force in VR's expansion. What started as a niche market is now attracting major game developers, with more AAA titles and indie innovations pushing the boundaries of immersion. From Meta's Quest 3 to Sony's PlayStation VR2, hardware advancements are making high-quality VR gaming more accessible than ever. Beyond...more

Virtual reality (VR) is no longer just for gaming — it's becoming a powerful tool in sports science to evaluate athlete performance. A new study by a group of scientists in Germany has validated a VR-based test battery that can reliably measure key athletic skills, such as reaction time, jumping ability, and complex movement execution. What you need to know about the VR athlete studyVR tests are highly reliable: Reaction time and jump height measurements in VR closely match real-world data. Parkour performance varies: Athletes initially struggle with VR navigation, but a virtual opponent improves results. Future potential: VR could revolutionize sports training, talent identification, and rehab with further advancements. This breakthrough suggests VR could revolutionize sports training, making assessments safer, more accessible, cost-effective, and data-driven. Why this matters for sports science and trainingFor years, VR has been explored as a training tool in sports, but its...more

As conversations about artificial intelligence (AI) grow, a new concept — augmented intelligence — is taking shape as a more human-focused way of using technology. While AI often evokes visions of automation and machine-driven decision-making, augmented intelligence focuses on collaboration, where machines enhance rather than replace human capabilities. This concept is increasingly relevant as businesses, healthcare providers, and financial institutions integrate AI-powered tools to improve efficiency and decision-making. Unlike traditional AI, which often operates independently, augmented intelligence keeps human expertise at the core. AI acts as a supportive tool, refining judgment, offering insights, and simplifying complex tasks rather than taking over entirely. Augmented intelligence helps people make better decisions by providing AI-driven insights while keeping humans in control. Unlike traditional AI, which automates tasks, augmented intelligence works alongside humans to...more

For decades, Super Bowl ads have been used as a launching platform for new products, devices, and even technologies. In Super Bowl LIX, it took center stage in the exploding AI space. Until now, the tech crowd has ravenously ingested much of the most pertinent AI news. The innovators and early adopters are way ahead, but the Super Bowl creates a captive commercial-loving audience of 130 million normal people. With OpenAI, Meta, and Google all taking the opportunity to push artificial intelligence to the populace, they all took interest through very different approaches. Here's a look at the AI-driven Super Bowl ads that made waves, what they promised, and how audiences reacted. AI-powered Super Bowl ads: Who showed what?OpenAI: The Information AgeWhat it showed: The ad featured black-and-white visuals in constant motion, walking through humanity's many developments, from tools and fire all the way through to generative AI. Key message: We have entered The Information Age. We might...more

What if, back in 2013, Google Glass had launched not as a Star Trek Borg-like eyepiece, but as a pair of seemingly normal shades, with the augmented reality lens and camera hidden within the frame? Google Glass has been almost permanently tagged with the "glasshole" moniker, so we'll never know if a sleeker version would have succeeded. But a new wearable called Norm Glasses is offering a solution that may answer the question above for consumers today. Don't Miss: Google Releases Glass Enterprise Edition 2, Includes Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1UpgradeFlorida-based startup Human Capable is hoping to tackle Google Glass's missed market by offering the same kind of AR experience in a pair of normal-looking shades. Conveniently, the product is called Norm Glasses, and it offers a powerful array of features in a deceptively simple housing. Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality When I first...more

Roughly a year and a half after unveiling the HoloLens-like ThinkReality A6, Lenovo is back with its take on enterprise-grade smartglasses, and the results look impressive. Then again, looks can be deceiving. On Sunday, a day ahead of the opening of the virtual Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Lenovo took the wraps off of the ThinkReality A3, a sleek pair of smartglasses designed for office and field roles in enterprises and scheduled to begin shipping by mid-2021 to select markets worldwide for an undisclosed price. Don't Miss: Hands-On: Hands-On with Lenovo's ThinkReality A6, a Disappointing Step Back from Augmented Reality's Cutting EdgeRunning on the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR1 platform, ThinkReality A3 comes equipped with stereoscopic 1080p displays tucked within the frames (rather appended to the exterior as with Google Glass or Vuzix M400) that can project up to five virtual displays in the user's field of view. The smartglasses feature a center-framed 8MP RGB camera that can...more

Unlike VR, when you're talking about augmented reality, describing what an experience is like can be incredibly difficult — primarily because the experiences are even more contextual than relatively static virtual worlds that don't involve real-world settings. In AR, everything is about how "you" see things interacting with your real environment. Such is the case with what I'm calling the most important demonstration of Magic Leap technology to date in the form of an AI assistant called Mica. The experience was previewed on stage during Wednesday's keynote event at the L.E.A.P. conference in Los Angeles by Magic Leap's John Monos, vice president of human-centered AR and dDNA, and Andrew Rabinovich, the company's head of AI. Don't Miss: Everything Magic Leap Revealed During Its First Annual L.E.A.P. Conference Keynote EventTogether, the team described a world in which a Magic Leap user will be able to interact with intelligent assistants in the form of fully realized augmented reality...more

Unlike the realm of virtual reality, augmented reality is less about losing yourself in some fantasy environment, and more about getting things done in the real world. So while we've seen some great games that capture the imagination on devices like the Magic Leap One and the HoloLens, when it comes to real-world usage, the biggest developments coming for AR apps that are the more practical ones. Fittingly, we now have two apps available on the devices mentioned above that cater directly to the notion of using AR to work rather than play. In this case, that work involves communication. Don't Miss: Magic Leap Roars into the Auto World via Kia Stinger App from RelayCarsMagic Leap's Avatar Chat, teased during the L.E.A.P. convention, and released a couple of weeks ago in partnership with Twilio, allows any two Magic Leap One users to communicate in real time from remote locations using simplified avatars. On the other hand, New York-based startup Spatial just launched its remote...more

Over the past decade, China tech giant Tencent has invested in several companies with varying roles in the augmented reality industry. Its latest bet backs a startup with some short-term impact related to the COVID-19 pandemic but more future-focused growth potential in the coming AR smartglasses era. Don't Miss: Ultraleap Improves Tracking of Two-Handed Interactions with Gemini Software UpdateAccording to a Sky News report, Image Frame Investment, Tencent's venture capital arm, will invest approximately $50 million into UK-based Ultraleap as part of the company's on-going Series D round of funding at a valuation of nearly $240 million. Ultraleap/YouTubeEmerging from Ultrahaptic's acquisition of Leap Motion, Ultraleap provides sensors and software for gesture recognition and touch-free haptic feedback. The company's technology has found demand during the pandemic, where interfaces that work without touching help prevent spreading the novel coronavirus. Most recently, Ultraleap has...more

For awhile now, Google has offered the ability to translate text through smartphone cameras via Google Translate and Google Lens, with Apple bringing similar technology to iPhones via Live Text. Hold our beers, say AI researchers at Facebook, who have now developed computer vision technology that can handle real-time text translation and then some in augmented reality. Don't Miss: Facebook Chief Mark Zuckerberg Talks Immersive Remote Video & AR Smartglasses Following Major Reveals from Snap & GoogleThis week, Praveen Krishnan, a postdoctoral researcher for Facebook, and Tal Hassner, research scientist, published research detailing an unsupervised AI model called TextStyleBrush that can view a single typed or handwritten word via a smartphone camera, emulate its typeface, and then virtually replace the original text with another word in the camera view. Facebook"It works similar to the way style brush tools work in word processors, but for text aesthetics in images. It surpasses...more

The Apple rumor mill never stops churning and when it comes to augmented reality smartglasses, the chatter has been particularly hot in recent months. Now Apple CEO Tim Cook has made a new appearance where he makes a few comments that may stoke even more excitement for what's coming next in that direction. • Don't Miss: Apple AR Smartglasses Concept Shows the Virtual Desktop of the Future The comments from Cook were made on Wednesday during the Paris, France tech conference Viva Technology. During a remote conversation with Guillaume Lacroix, the CEO of Brut, Cook decided to talk about what he's most excited about in terms of Apple's future. "I'm excited about AR. I get excited about AR because I see it as a technology that can enhance life in a broad way," said Cook. "We've been working on AR first with our phones and iPads, and later we'll see where that goes in terms of products." That last sentence is about as close as Cook has come to admitting that "something" new is in the...more

Not all Kickstarters are created equal. Some take forever to get their products to supporters, and when the product does arrive (usually much later than promised) it's often very rough around the edges. I'm here today to report that the exact opposite is the case with the Looking Glass Portrait holographic display, which ultimately raised over $2.5 million for its crowdfunding effort. Not only did the device come around the time it was promised, but the packaging and fit and finish are so well done that I felt it deserved the full unboxing treatment. • Don't Miss: Looking Glass Responds to Sony's Holographic Display with Consumer-Friendly Looking Glass Portrait In case you're wondering, this is not a review of the device. That will happen later after we've had some time to put the device through its holographic paces. But sometimes we forget that Apple has spoiled us with great packaging, so much so that we've come to "expect" beautiful packaging from every tech product. But often,...more

With the tagline "More Than Meets the Eye," the Transformers franchise was pretty much preordained to have its own augmented reality game, and AR gaming pioneer Niantic has stepped up to fulfill that destiny. Niantic will now join forces with toymakers Hasbro and Tomy and development studio Very Very Games to build Transformers: Heavy Metal on its Lightship AR cloud platform. Don't Miss: Niantic Bringing Buddy Interactions to AR+ Mode in Pokémon GO, Shared Experiences with Other Trainers to FollowBased on images of gameplay provided by Niantic, Transformers: Heavy Metal follows the formula of location-based mobile AR centered on exploring real-world locations, collecting virtual characters and resources, and taking part in turn-based battles. The game is slated for a soft launch "soon" with a global launch before the end of the year. The game already has a website where interested players can sign-up for updates. NianticNiantic"In thinking about franchises that would be incredible to...more

For its latest augmented reality trick, Snapchat has brought the world an AR Lens that has become a bit of a viral hit on Twitter as users turn themselves and their favorite movie stars into characters out of a Pixar movie. According to a Snap spokesperson, more than 215 million Snapchat users have interacted with the Cartoon 3D Style Lens since its launch on June 10. The Lens has tallied more than 1.7 billion views over that period. Don't Miss: AR Snapshots: Celebrate Pride Month with These Snapchat Augmented Reality LensesWith the Cartoon 3D Style Lens, Snapchat can remix photos taken with the Snapchat camera or images taken elsewhere and saved to your camera roll where the app recognizes a face. However, Snapchat can also work its magic with video, and this is where the real fun begins. Flip the camera to the rear lens, and suddenly you can remix any scene from film or TV as a Pixar-style animated movie. Perhaps you've seen the new Marvel series Loki on Disney Plus, or check out...more

Mobile augmented reality for iOS typically comes through apps via ARKit, but Apple is borrowing a few pages from Google's playbook and bringing AR directly to iOS 15. During the keynote presentation at the WWDC 2021, Craig Federighi, senior vice president of software engineering for Apple, unveiled Live Text, a new camera mode coming to iOS 15 that delivers much of the same functionality that Google Lens offers for Android smartphones and Google Photos. Don't Miss: Apple's AR Spaces in Updated Clips App Uses iPhone & iPad LiDAR to Give You New AR Video PowersLive Text will enable iPhone users to point their capture photos and interact with text. In addition to copying text, users can search based on selected text or call a phone number recognized within the image. The same functionality will be available via the Photos app on iOS and macOS Monterey. Live Text also replicates Google Lens's ability to recognize pet breeds, plants, products, art, and landmarks....more

While Apple introduced new AR features for iOS 15 and Object Capture for Reality Kit 2 during the WWDC 2021 keynote, updates for ARKit were curiously absent in the official presentation. That doesn't mean there isn't anything new coming to Apple's toolkit for mobile AR apps, and the next update helps evolve AR experiences via ARKit towards the sci-fi dream of the Metaverse, also known as the AR cloud. Don't Miss: Snap Releases Lens Studio 4.0 with 3D Body Mesh & More, Upgrades Scan as Fashion AssistantThe headlining feature for ARKit 5 is Location Anchors, an expansion of the persistent content functionality introduced in ARKit 2, which enables apps to execute AR experiences at precise locations in real-world locations, from famous landmarks to friendly neighborhoods, based on latitude, longitude, and altitude coordinates. AppleHowever, Location Anchors will be limited to London, New York, and other select US cities at launch. You'll also need an iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone...more

The debut of the augmented reality version of Snap's Spectacles came with several examples of how the wearable can allow creators to transform the world around them. Now, weeks after the initial launch of the AR smartglasses, we're getting yet another example of how the device can facilitate new kinds of immersive experiences. • Don't Miss: How to Get a Pair of Snap's New Spectacles AR Smartglasses Los Angeles-based technical designer Katherine Harris managed to snag a pair of Spectacles and decided to use the device to develop a new kind of teaching tool. Snap/YouTubeHarris, a veteran of Microsoft who now works at Magnopus, an immersive experience production studio, created Dance Helper to train the rhythmically challenged learn to hit the right steps when the music starts. A major part of the process of building the experience involved using Snap's Lens Studio, which Harris describes as the perfect tool for immersive development even for those without coding skills. Snap "This...more

Just when everything seemed settled over at Magic Leap, it turns out that the internal tumult is still in play. Now, just as newly minted CEO Peggy Johnson has managed to fully position herself publicly as the new leader of the struggling augmented reality startup, more executive departures have begun. • Don't Miss: Magic Leap Made Me Cry, Probably for the Last Time. Here's Why That's the Good News Magic Leap's chief operating officer Henk Vlietstra, chief patent officer David Lundmark, and chief technology officer Paul Greco are all exiting the company according to a report from Business Insider. The report, which is behind a paywall surfaced by The Verge, also noted that Magic Leap's former marketing chief, Daniel Diez, is returning to the company. According to Diez's LinkedIn profile, he exited the company sometime in 2020. Magic Leap's latest executive shuffle comes as Johnson and the former CEO, Rony Abovitz, are both publicly promising the release of a new Magic Leap headset...more

One of the more exciting augmented reality announcements Apple made during its WWDC keynote on Monday came in the form of Object Capture, a new 3D scanning feature coming to macOS Monterey. That cry you just heard in the distance came from the chorus of companies who have published 3D scanning apps leveraging the LiDAR sensors of recent or built their business models around 3D capture services. Don't Miss: Apple Delivers Competitor to Google Lens & Google Maps AR Features in iOS 15Meanwhile, Unity is in the catbird's seat of Apple's Object Capture car. Among the early access partners working with Apple on Object Capture, Unity MARS will support Object Capture for AR development by way of the iOS version of its AR Companion app. Released as an open beta earlier this year, the AR Companion app enables developers to layout scenes for an AR experience and scan test them in real-world environments. UnityWhile the production app, along with Object Capture integration, isn't slated to arrive...more

If you were to summarize the path Snap has taken towards augmented reality smartglasses with a meme template, how it started would be the first-generation Spectacles camera glasses and how it's going would be the next-generation Spectacles with AR capabilities. However, it appears Facebook will start its consumer-grade smartglasses journey at the wrist. Don't Miss: This Viral Instagram Augmented Reality Filter Will Tell You Which Disney Character You Really AreFacebook has been quite open about its plans for smartglasses. Those plans include CTRL-Labs, a brain control interface (BCI) startup funded by Google and Amazon that Facebook acquired in 2019. The technology from CTRL-Labs intercepts nerve signals at the wrist to interpret user intent, which can assist in accuracy and speed of hand gesture interpretation for AR interfaces. FacebookNow, according to an unsourced report from The Verge, Facebook plans to launch its own smartwatch with a detachable screen and cameras next year,...more

Like its predecessors WandaVision and Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Marvel's latest series for Disney Plus, Loki, has its own augmented reality experience. However, while the former titles did not debut their AR content until just ahead of their respective season finales, the latter arrives just in time for the debut of the God of Mischief's time-traveling exploits. Don't Miss: The Best Marvel Movie Scenes Featuring Augmented Reality Concepts That We Might Use in the Near FutureFor Loki, Disney Plus has opted to publish its AR experience as a Sponsored Lens on Snapchat. The experience includes a virtual background influenced by the show's premise, a golden clock with multiple hands rotating because multiverse. Tapping the screen adjusts the virtual lighting of the scene. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality The highlight, though, occurs in the foreground, where you'll find your name overlaid on the camera view with the show's typeface of the letters randomly...more

When we got our first look at US Army soldiers testing Microsoft's modified HoloLens 2 last year, it still looked very much like the commercial edition, with some additional sensors attached. Today, the prototype Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS), produced under an initial $480 million contract, looks much more like battle-ready technology, with a much larger visor and sensors bundled in a rugged-looking, beige enclosure. Don't Miss: US Military Shows Off Modified HoloLens 2 Augmented Reality SystemNow that the US Army has extended a five-year, $21 billion contract (with a possible five-year extension) to Microsoft to produce approximately 120,000 military-grade HoloLens 2, Microsoft has revealed some additional details from behind the scenes. The IVAS prototype is the product of two years of close collaboration between vendor and customer, where Microsoft team members participated in several week-long boot camps and the Army was exposed to Microsoft's "user-centric" design...more

As brands and content makers create more augmented reality experiences, the demand for tools to create 3D content grows in kind. And Apple may have just leveled the playing field for 3D content creation. Don't Miss: Apple Delivers Competitor to Google Lens & Google Maps AR Features in iOS 15On Monday, at WWDC 2021, Apple introduced Object Capture, a photogrammetry tool built on the Swift programming language and coming to the Monterey edition of macOS via RealityKit 2, the next version of Apple's AR engine. Apple Object Capture stitches together a series of photographs to create a 3D model of the subject. Users can capture photos in sequence using their iPhones, iPads, or other cameras, then import the images into Reality Kit 2 to generate the 3D model. Users can also preview the content via AR Quick Look of the model to confirm accuracy. Content generated via Object Capture can then be used in AR experiences created via Reality Composer or Xcode, as well as third-party platforms like...more

After introducing a pair of new Spark AR capabilities last week, Facebook had one more trick up its sleeve to unveil at its virtual F8 Refresh developer conference. On Wednesday, Facebook gave its audience a sneak peek at its new Multipeer API, which will enable Spark AR creators to build AR camera effects that sync multiple video callers on Messenger and Instagram as well as its Portal smart camera lineup. Don't Miss: This Viral Instagram Augmented Reality Filter Will Tell You Which Disney Character You Really AreMultipeer API opens up opportunities for shared experiences for video calls, with Facebook presenting several concepts. There's a virtual campfire effect, where an owl flies from one caller's video to another's screen. There's a birthday celebration, where confetti explodes simultaneously for all revelers as party hats fall on their heads in unison. The new capability provides possibilities for gaming as well. In an example, players use their faces to guide a doughnut along...more

After tapping Nvidia for its first AR headset, Magic Leap is calling in reinforcement for its future enterprise-focused efforts. On Wednesday, Magic Leap disclosed a partnership with chipmaker AMD to produce a "semi-custom" system on a chip (SOC) that will handle computing, graphics, and machine learning, particularly computer vision and spatial computing, for its AR headsets. Don't Miss: 10 Remote Collaboration Apps for HoloLens, Magic Leap, & Mobile That Can Substitute for in-Person MeetingsIn its partnership with AMD, Magic Leap is aiming for top performance to run advanced AR content for enterprise businesses while attaining greater power efficiency. "We have a shared vision with Magic Leap to shape the future of computing and transform the way enterprises worldwide work and interact with each other and their customers," said Jack Huynh, corporate vice president and general manager of AMD's Semi-Custom business unit, in a statement. "We started this journey together several years...more

The march of Amazon to insert itself into nearly every retail arena continues with the e-commerce giant's latest move to launch its own brick-and-mortar beauty salons. However, this new initiative isn't limited to simply facilitating transactions at real-world locations, instead, Amazon is deploying some of its augmented reality aspirations to its experiment with in-person beauty customer service. • Don't Miss: Google Lens Delivers AR Try-On for L'Oreal's Garnier Products at Walmart But what was missing in Amazon's announcement regarding its new beauty salon experiment, and the AR that will help drive in-store virtual try-ons, is the use of the Style My Hair Pro app from cosmetics giant L'Oréal. In images revealed earlier this week, Amazon displayed the app's familiar menu for virtual hair color samples, but no mention was made on the website of how the AR effect was achieved. Amazon UKThe AR app behind the effect is called Style My Hair Pro, and it's an offshoot of L'Oréal's...more

Few brands have been more enthusiastic about augmented reality than Lego, which has now expanded its AR experiences from toys to theme parks. The brand recently opened a new attraction, dubbed Mythica: World of Mythical Creature, at Legoland Windsor in the UK. Don't Miss: Hands-On with the Lego Snapchat Augmented Reality Experience That Lets You Build With Friends RemotelyVisitors who download and install the Legoland Windsor Resort app can scan four codes located adjacent to the statues of Chimera, Alicorn, Hydra, and Sky Lion. Upon scanning, the app opens virtual portals, where visitors can photograph the AR creatures, collect digital cards, and view the backstory of each creature. Lego In addition, the app, which is available for iOS and Android, facilitates a separate set of AR experiences at the park or at home. Users can open virtual portals to Magical Forest, Hidden Valley, Raging Seas, and Mount Lava, where they can find hidden items, acquire creature cards, and learn more...more

June is Pride Month, an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ communities in commemoration of the Stonewall uprising of 1969. With Lens Studio, developers and creators have the capacity to create augmented reality experiences that celebrate a wide variety of interests, including LGBTQ+ rights. Here are some Snapchat Lenses to help celebrate your identity or your support of the LGBTQ+ community... Don't Miss: Snapchat Celebrates Pride Month with New Landmark AR ExperiencesDress Up in These Virtual Pride CostumesOur first pair of Lenses give you the opportunity to put on virtual festive accessories to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. The Summer of Pride Lens places a virtual rainbow-colored hat, sunglasses, and lipstick on your face along with a virtual rainbow ice cream cone anchored in the foreground. Tap the screen to remove virtual elements. Snap Snap The Pride Month Lens features a flower crown that blooms atop your head, with rainbow hearts projected onto your cheeks. Summer of...more

While autonomous vehicles are almost assuredly the future of personal transportation, we are likely many years from seeing self-driving cars become as ubiquitous as manually-driven ones, as the auto industry has a myriad of government regulations and other constraints to contend with. Until then, augmented reality is looking like the next big thing in automotive technology. In fact, AR in automobiles could reach mainstream relevance with most consumers before AR headsets or smartglasses. With cars, there's no cumbersome, headworn display to act as a hurdle to adoption, as content is projected onto windshields or dashboard-mounted displays. Miniaturization of computing hardware is also not as big a concern with AR in cars when compared to the challenges of embedding the same technology in a pair of smartglasses. DAQRIIn many ways, the benefits of AR in cars is not unlike that seen in current applications in the enterprise arena or the use cases envisioned for consumers, streamlining...more

Ever since Snapchat rebuffed its acquisition attempts, Facebook has morphed Instagram with features from Snapchat, such as stories, chat, and, of course, augmented reality. With regard to augmented reality, Snap is iterating at a fairly rapid pace. At its Snap Partner Summit last week, the company released version 4.0 of its Lens Studio AR creation platform and introduced new AR tech like Connected Lenses. Don't Miss: This Viral Instagram Augmented Reality Filter Will Tell You Which Disney Character You Really AreTo keep up with Snap's AR arsenal, Facebook has added two new AR capabilities for Instagram via version 114 of its own Spark AR development tool — multi-class segmentation and improved target tracking. Multi-class segmentation (MCS) enables developers to track a person, their hair, and their skin and apply virtual textures to them. In sample effects from the Spark AR community, MCS can make a subject appear invisible while their clothes remain in view or apply pulsing neon...more

The world of Lego is timeless primarily because everyone, regardless of age or background, can build a wide variety of amazing things with the simple component blocks from the classic toymaker. But now that Snapchat has brought that dynamic to augmented reality via the Rebuild the World Snapchat Lens the possibilities are truly endless. • Don't Miss: Snap Team Member Reveals Early Prototype of AR Spectacles, Plus Here's Another Way to Get Your Own Pair Oddly, when you visit the Lego website, you'll have a difficult time finding any information about the new AR version of Lego, which is why we thought it would be helpful to point Lego fans toward how to begin building immersively within Snapchat. Before you begin, you, if you haven't already, you need to download Snapchat for Android or iOS. Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality After you've done that, the Rebuild the World Lens can be accessed by visiting this direct link or via the...more

The electric vehicle space is where a lot of the most cutting-edge technology is used to push vehicles forward (the best example being Tesla). Now, the Volkswagen Group is ramping up the EV competition with its new augmented reality-infused Cupra Born. • Don't Miss: Volvo Teams with Unity to Let You Test Out the XC40 SUV in AR, Launches Developer Innovation Portal Although the official announcement of the EV was made a few weeks ago, this week we finally got an up-close look at some of the detail. Specifically, the car's augmented reality heads-up display is being shown off and, if the final product is similar to the preview, then this will be an impressive demonstration of mobile AR. Cupra/YouTubeAccording to the company, the Cupra Born uses a combination of cameras as well as radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect and show the driver vital information on its heads-up AR display. SeatSeatSeatSome of the information currently included in the AR system's array is the ability to detect...more

When Snap CEO Evan Spiegel pulled off the surprise debut of the augmented reality version of Spectacles last week, it was one of the biggest moments in the company's history. In one move, Snap moved from a primarily software-driven social media company to a legitimate hardware player. But how did it come together? • Don't Miss: How to Get a Pair of Snap's New Spectacles AR Smartglasses Well, it turns out that, just like the HoloLens before it, the new Spectacles also had a noteworthy prototype device that led up to the eventual polished version that we see today. Thanks to Snap AR Product Lead Ilter Canberk, we can now see a vital part of the history of Spectacles hardware. Following the launch of the device, Canberk shared an image of the early prototype of Spectacles 2021. Posted via Twitter, Canberk is shown wearing the cumbersome prototype outside alongside an associate. And right next to that image, Canberk shows off the finished version of Spectacles 2021, demonstrating how far...more

Last week, Snap powered through a mountain of important software and (shock!) hardware updates, as well as a few very big business partnerships. One of those partnerships is Disney World, but if you weren't paying close attention, you might have missed how exactly you can bring Disney's iconic characters into your real world via Snapchat. • Don't Miss: Snap Now Lets You Build Lego in AR Remotely with Others, Reveals AR Tie-Up with Disney, Plus AR Business Tools The new Walt Disney World Resort Snapchat Lenses allow you to take a fully interactive selfie with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, or take a solo photo or video while wearing the trademark Disney World mouse ears cap while 3D balloons hover in the background. DisneyDisneyThe virtual visit from Disney World's characters can be accessed in two ways. You can either scan the snapcode below or download the free My Disney Experience app for iOS or Android, which will take you directly to the Snapchat Lenses when you click on the "Disney...more

The tech world was taken by surprise this week with the unexpected unveiling of Snap's augmented reality Spectacles smartglasses. So far, the reaction has been incredibly positive, partly due to the fact that Snap has been underpromising the delivery of AR smartglasses for several years, making it seem like they were far off in the future for the company. Therefore, the device's sudden debut felt more like a gift rather than an aspirational reach. • Don't Miss: Snap Spectacles Finally Evolve into Full AR Smartglasses with Standalone Immersive Superpowers But now that the device is out in the wild, the main question many have is: How do I get a pair? Well, unlike previous versions of Spectacles, this device is not for sale just yet. Instead, Snap is offering them to select augmented reality creators around the world. Currently, there are just a handful of users in locations from Los Angeles all the way to Ukraine. If you'd like to get your hands on a pair, for now, the best way is to...more

The big day for Snap that resulted in the debut of brand new augmented reality Spectacles smartglasses is turning into a big week. On Friday, just as the company was still basking in the generally positive reception to its latest version of Spectacles, news dropped that Snap has acquired wave guide maker WaveOptics. • Don't Miss: Snap Spectacles Finally Evolve into Full AR Smartglasses with Standalone Immersive Superpowers The deal not only gives Snap a huge leg up on its competition in terms of producing AR smartglasses in the future, but it also signals in no uncertain terms just how committed to AR Snap really is, even far beyond the confines of the Snapchat social media app. WaveOpticsSnap's deal to buy the UK-based startup for $500 million — Snap's biggest acquisition ever — was first reported by The Verge. The first Snap product using WaveOptics technology is none other than the latest version of Spectacles, loosely known as Spectacles 4, but internally referred to by the Snap...more

The biggest win in the race for consumer augmented reality smartglasses to date belongs not to Apple, Facebook, or Google, but Snapchat's parent company, Snap. In an Apple-style "one more thing" moment during the Snap Partner Summit keynote on Thursday, CEO Evan Spiegel revealed the next generation of Spectacles, which have finally evolved into standalone smartglasses capable of displaying AR content. • Don't Miss: Next Snap Spectacles Expected to Include AR Displays, Report Says With dual waveguide displays, two RGB cameras, four microphones, and two stereo speakers, the smartglasses weigh 134 grams and can deliver 23 degrees diagonal field of view and 2000 nits of brightness. The device runs on Snap's own Spatial Engine, which is capable of six degrees of freedom and hand tracking, and works without a smartphone nearby (although a smartphone is needed to initialize set-up). SnapUsers can browse the Lens Carousel via a capacitive touchpad on the temple or launch Lenses via Voice Scan...more

The surging activity in augmented reality in both the business and consumer sectors is being matched with a wealth of updates and partnerships from Snap Inc. On Thursday, during the company's Snap Partner Summit 2021, a wide range of tie-ups and new features were unveiled, with some of the biggest brands on the planet joining the AR fray. • Don't Miss: Samsung Just Gave Us the First Snapchat AR Smartphone, Sort Of Perhaps the most notable partnership is Snap's new effort with the Lego company. Although Lego is known for allowing kids of all ages to use plastic building blocks to create art, toys, and even robots, now Lego fans will be able to build Lego constructs together, remotely, via a new feature from Lens Studio called Connected Lens. The new feature is available immediately via Snapchat. Snapchat's Connected Lens feature Moving forward, the idea of two users collaborating on an AR model remotely via something as widely accessible as Snapchat is groundbreaking. Currently, a...more

Throughout Thursday's virtual Snap Partner Summit, Snapchat's parent company made a profound statement: If you use Snapchat, you're a creator. Of Snapchat's more than 500 million creators (aka daily active users), about 40% interact with AR daily to capture content. Don't Miss: How to Use Your Favorite Snapchat AR Lenses on Zoom, Skype, Meet & Other Video Conferencing AppsConsidering AR's appeal in Snapchat, it's no surprise that Snap used the event to introduce a veritable plethora of new AR capabilities, headlined by the latest version from its Lens Studio platform for creating AR experiences. Snap Lens Studio 4.0 adds new AR capabilities in 3D Body Mesh and Cloth Simulation. The former improves upon the full-body tracking introduced in Lens Studio 3.4 with volumetric tracking, making AR effects look more realistic, and support for tracking multiple persons within the camera view. The latter enables creators to imitate the physics and look of textiles so that virtual effects can...more

For most mainstream users, LiDAR sensors for precision depth sensing remain the exclusive domain of Apple iPhones and iPads, but Google is helping Android device makers close the depth gap on the software side via its ARCore toolkit. After introducing new AR features for Search and Maps and previewing the mind-blowing Project Starline 3D video conferencing concept during its I/O keynote presentation on Tuesday, Google unceremoniously announced ARCore 1.24, which brings two new AR capabilities, Raw Depth API and Recording and Playback API, with the former enabling more realistic AR experiences and more accurate occlusion in the absence of LiDAR. Don't Miss: Google Adding Stereo Depth Support for Dual Cameras to ARCore Starting with Pixel 4 & 4XLThe Raw Depth API builds on the existing Depth API by capturing additional depth data so that apps can render realistic AR experiences via a standard smartphone camera. However, Android devices with time-of-flight sensors for depth measurement...more

Snapchat's first foray into augmented reality started with the selfie camera and face-tracking technology, with the app's AR capabilities expanding from there. More recently, Snapchat creators have gained full-body tracking via Lens Studio, which begat virtual costumes such as Iron Man and Darth Vader. Snapchat's AR superstar dancing hot dog has even joined the full-body costume party. Don't Miss: Let Your Cat or Dog Join in Your AR Antics with These Pet-Friendly LensesSince then, several developers have come up with some more imaginative uses for full-body tracking. We've uncovered three Lenses that are perfect for adding some spice to your social media shared dance routines, if that's your thing, along with a neat sci-fi-style experience and a fitness challenge. Let's try them out... Catch Disco FeverIs disco dead? I don't know, these things are cyclical. Don't forget swing music had that brief revival in the '90s. You could get ahead of the curve with the Star Burst, which follows...more

During the Tuesday launch of Google I/O, the company's CEO, Sundar Pichai, pulled off a Steve Jobsian "one more thing" move near the end of his keynote address that was simply stunning. It's called Project Starline, and it's a (for now) internal project working to make remote video meetings a lot more immersive. • Don't Miss: Google Adds Sports Athletes to AR Search, Includes Virtual Street Signs in Live View AR in Google Maps The system uses high-resolution cameras, custom-built depth sensors, and what Google describes as a "breakthrough light field display" to deliver what appear to be 3D images of the person on the other end of the video conference. So far, the system has been tested on Google employees in the company's Bay Area, New York, and Seattle offices. GoogleIt's unclear what technical hurdles Google has managed to clear with this prototype product, but the initial demonstration videos are promising. While it's nearly impossible to judge the full 3D effect by looking at a...more

Since bringing augmented reality features to Search and Maps, Google has made them arguably the most useful augmented reality products in its portfolio. On Tuesday, at Google I/O, Google unveiled some of its new AR capabilities for the pair of mobile apps. Don't Miss: Google Offers Virtual Photo Booth Web App Ahead of Socially Distanced I/O ConferenceIn Google Search, you can now view AR animations of athletes like soccer hero Megan Rapinoe, tennis star Naomi Osaka, and Olympic gymnast Simone Biles. Searching for these athletes now via the Google app for iOS and Android (or via Chrome for Android) will allow you to see them perform their famous feats in your personal space. Google/YouTubeGoogle/YouTubeGoogle/YouTubeMeanwhile, Live View, the walking navigation mode for Google Maps, will gain some helpful enhancements for iOS and Android over the coming months. Perhaps the most exciting of these improvements is the expansion of Live View from a walking navigation tool to an AR x-ray...more

In the great smartglasses race, component makers, such as those that supply the crucial waveguide displays that make visualization of virtual content possible, have a vested interest in pushing the industry forward in order to ship units. On Tuesday, waveguide maker DigiLens unveiled Design v1, a reference design based on its Visualize Framework for smartglasses development, with the aim of helping original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), software and content makers, and IoT providers to jumpstart the development of their own augmented reality wearables. Don't Miss: DigiLens Previews Smartglasses with Its Waveguide Displays in New Video on Design & Manufacturing ApproachDigiLens will ship Design v1 units immediately to a limited set of hardware partners and expects to expand availability by early summer. The DigiLens reference design, which runs on Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 computing platform, includes the company's Crystal50 waveguide lens, which yields a field of view of 50...more

Facebook Reality Labs just experienced its first major executive exit since the pandemic began. Hugo Barra has announced that he's stepping down from his position as vice president of VR at Facebook. Barra's move comes as a bit of a surprise as Facebook and its Oculus brand have been on a bit of a winning streak with the success of the Oculus Quest 2 (which features passthrough augmented reality features) and increased consumer interest in VR during pandemic lockdowns in 2020. • Don't Miss: Facebook Searching for More Troops to Work at Oculus on AR Product Design & Marketing Previously, Barra (a member of the 2018 edition of the NR30) served as a VP for China mobile giant Xiaomi and as a VP leading Android for Google. "Today [Monday, May 17] is my last day at Facebook Reality Labs, after 4 years working on projects that have been more exciting and more challenging than anything I've encountered in my career, with some of the brightest minds and kindest people I've ever had the...more

Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic is showing signs of winding down, nevertheless, Google will still hold its annual I/O developer conference as a virtual affair, with keynotes and sessions available as live streams and on-demand videos starting Tuesday, May 18 and concluding on Thursday, May 20. As a consolation prize, Google has a web-based AR treat for attendees and observers to bring a taste of the conference into their own home offices. Don't Miss: Hands-On: Here's How Augmented Reality in Google Search WorksThe Google I/O Photo Booth is a web app that is available for desktop and mobile browsers and adds animated brand mascots and Easter eggs from across Google's ecosystem, including the Android's Bugdroid, Chrome's Offline Dino, Flutter's Dash, and Firebase's Sparky, to your camera view. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality After adding your virtual friends, you can then take a photo and add more props, including Google products, fashion accessories, snacks,...more

One fight for augmented reality branding that we thought had been settled has suddenly turned into a full-fledged legal battle—again. The combatants? Unreal Engine maker Epic Games versus the Chinese startup known as Nreal (aka Shenzhen Tairuo, formerly known as Hangzhou Tairuo, and parent company named Beijing Unicorn Technology). The stakes? Who gets to use the name "real" in reference to augmented reality products. • Don't Miss: Hands-On with the Nreal Light, Smartphone-Powered Augmented Reality Immersion Next Reality was the first to report on this fight back in 2019, when Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Nreal to stop it from using the Nreal name. Epic's specific claim was: "'NREAL' and 'UNREAL' are highly similar from a visual perspective. The only difference in spelling—that the Applicant's Mark lacks a single vowel contained in Opposer's UNREAL Marks—does not sufficiently distinguish the appearance of the Applicant's Mark from that of Opposer's UNREAL Marks," read the filing...more

Sure, Microsoft has mostly marketed its HoloLens headsets towards enterprises and developers, but we learned this week that, like every other tech giant, the company is working on a consumer-grade AR wearable. Speaking of consumer smartglasses, Apple made another strategic investment this week that has implications for Apple's AR future. While Apple is putting the pieces in place for its future AR products, Niantic is making the next steps towards the future of AR apps, advancing its AR cloud platform into private beta with a new name. For AR and TV, the future may be closer than we expected, as NBCUniversal unveiled its plans for integrating AR into its programming. Finally, the future of AR advertising for mobile may lean more towards cross-platform web AR, with a new promotion involving Angry Birds and Burger King as the latest example. Microsoft Is Developing Consumer Smartglasses...but There's Work to Be DoneThe story of the HoloLens has been a mix of work and play. But while...more

Since its launch two years ago, the HoloLens 2 has been the best AR headset available, and nothing has come close to touching it since. So, at first blush, new features arriving for the device via an update to the Windows Holographic operating system might seem a bit...tame. Don't Miss: 10 Remote Collaboration Apps for HoloLens, Magic Leap, & Mobile That Can Substitute for in-Person MeetingsThe top change arriving via version 21H1 is the transition to the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge as the default browser. Yawn? Not so fast. This means better support for WebXR experiences, which is quickly gaining steam as a delivery method for platform-agnostic AR content. This also means support for web apps, such as the Microsoft Office web app. How about swipe to type? Yeah, you probably have this on your iPhone or Android device already, but, considering that hand gestures are the prime input method for HoloLens, this is kind of a big deal. We also can't forget that Microsoft has positioned...more

The story of the HoloLens has been a mix of work and play. But while many developers have devoted time to creating gaming and entertainment apps for the HoloLens 1, with the HoloLens 2, Microsoft has been encouraging everyone to focus more on the enterprise side of things. But there's apparently still hope for those looking to harness the powers of the HoloLens for mainstream consumer uses, as HoloLens co-creator Alex Kipman has just commented on the development of a consumer version. • Don't Miss: Microsoft Mixed Reality Developer Shows Off the Full Power of Hand Tracking & Occlusion via the HoloLens 2 The comments were revealed during The Wall Street Journal'sThe Future of Everything Festival. First, when asked about the prospects of a HoloLens 3 coming anytime soon, Kipman was predictably coy, indicating that there will indeed be a HoloLens 3, but that it would not be an incremental improvement, but would represent a "leap" in technology, design, and comfort. However, the surprise...more

The experience of actually using the HoloLens 2 can be difficult to describe to anyone who hasn't had a chance to directly interact with the device in person and be blown away by its immersive capabilities. That's why any new exploration into exposing the augmented reality magic made possible by the HoloLens 2 demands attention as we reveal how computing is about to change for the entire planet. This latest demo is no different. • Don't Miss: Intel Takes Us Inside to Reveal How HoloLens 2 Is Transforming Computer Chip Production This demonstration focuses on displaying the hand tracking and object interactions that allow the HoloLens 2 to simulate the experience of touching and holding objects. In this case, the object is a virtual cube that is being handled by a pair of virtual hands overlaying the real hands of the user. This specific virtual hands effect is useful in that it allows the virtual light beaming from the cube to interact with the virtual hands, thus enhancing the...more

Angry Birds, one of the first franchises to find success in mobile gaming, continues to shoot its shot at new life in augmented reality gaming. After adapting its slingshot gameplay for Magic Leap with Angry Birds FPS: First Person Slingshot and mobile with Isle of Pigs, Rovio Entertainment has pushed its furious feathered friends into the tower defense genre altogether for a web-based AR mini-game. Don't Miss: Hands-On: Angry Birds AR: Isle of Pigs Reinvents the Franchise for Mobile, but Smartglasses Are Its DestinyLaunching as a promotional tie-in with Burger King, the web-based edition of Angry Birds challenges players to defend a virtual nest of eggs from attacking hordes of Hatchlings (who are cannibals, I guess) by tapping their touchscreen and placing self-firing turrets in their physical space. Rovio Rovio If you fail to keep the Hatchlings from stealing your eggs, you can activate a power-up, which is triggered by switching to the front-facing camera and opening your mouth,...more

Consumers who haven't already delved into the interactive wonders of augmented reality are about to be pushed into the immersive waters by market forces. In the lead up to next week's upfronts, an annual event during which TV networks work to woo advertisers with new shows and marketing techniques for their upcoming programming schedules, NBCUniversal took the wraps off its next big AR initiative. • Don't Miss: Marvel Heroes Invade ESPN's NBA Broadcast of Warriors vs. Pelicans Game via AR Similar to last year, due to the pandemic, the event, which is usually held in New York, is being held virtually this year. In the case of NBCUniversal, the massive network revealed that it plans to offer AR-powered shopping options while viewers watch their favorite programs. The effort is being called @HomeShopping. NBCUniversalAlthough the network didn't show off a fully-formed demo of its new advertising interaction, it did produce a short video that gives us an idea of what it will be like when...more

In recent years, the tech innovation space has been dominated by the US and Asia, with Europe weighing in, but still being mostly lauded for its art history and architecture. Now, Europhiles with a tech bent can enjoy a unique touch of the future while delving into Europe's past thanks to a new exhibition that uses augmented reality and the Microsoft HoloLens as the key to unlocking an immersive trip to the past. • Don't Miss: Japan-Based Developer Unleashes Giant AR Gundam Robot on the Public via HoloLens 2 The M Leuven museum has launched "Between Heaven and Earth – Experience The Last Supper of Bouts" in St. Peter's Church in Belgium, an experience that allows anyone to immerse themselves in the art of the Flemish Masters. M Leuven/YouTubeAfter donning one of a set of HoloLens 2 devices available at the facility, historic works housed in the Gothic church, including Dieric Bouts' "Last Supper," can be viewed in a completely new way via AR interactions that include gesture controls....more

Niantic first unveiled its AR cloud back in 2018, using it to enhance the immersive capabilities of its gaming portfolio. Now, the company is expanding access to the system, allowing third-party developers to take advantage of next-generation augmented reality features for their mobile apps. Don't Miss: Pokémon GO Developer Niantic Scores $245 Million in Funding to Fast-Track Real World PlatformThe platform, which was previously known as the "Niantic Real World Platform," is also getting a new name: Lightship. Niantic opened up the refreshed developer kit as a private beta this week. At launch, Lightship will enable developers to leverage real-time mapping, semantic segmentation, and multiplayer support. "Niantic is building the 3D map of the world hand-in-hand with its player base to power new kinds of immersive AR experiences," said Kei Kawai, vice president of product management for Niantic, in a statement. "With the Niantic Lightship Platform and ARDK, we want to provide the...more

After awarding $410 million to the company that supplies it with VCSELs and LiDAR sensors, Apple has made another strategic investment into a company that may contribute to future augmented reality hardware innovations. On Monday, Apple announced a $45 million award from its Advanced Manufacturing Fund to Corning, the company supplying glass for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch products. Corning has previously received a total of $450 million from the fund over two previous awards. Don't Miss: The 10 Biggest AR Investments of 2020"Apple and Corning have a long history of working together to accomplish the impossible," said Jeff Williams, chief operating officer at Apple, in a statement. "From the very first iPhone glass, to the revolutionary Ceramic Shield on the iPhone 12 lineup, our collaboration has changed the landscape of smartphone cover design and durability. Ceramic Shield is a prime example of the technologies that are possible when deep innovation meets the power of American...more

Apple has a sterling reputation when it comes to managing its supply chain; it's where CEO Tim Cook proved his mettle to succeed Steve Jobs. Now, the company has made a strategic investment with a supplier that will be crucial to its future plans for AR wearables. While Apple gets its ducks in a row for its debut AR wearable, startup Campfire has benefited from the design expertise of a long-time Apple collaborator. We recently spoke with Campfire CEO Jay Wright about its relationship with famed design studio Frog and its plans for its enterprise-grade AR headset. On the content side of the AR industry, the NBA, along with partners AT&T and Marvel, gave fans a double-dip of AR fun this week, while developers for HoloLens 2 and Snapchat treated us with some science fiction AR goodies. Apple Invests $410 Million into LiDAR & VCSEL Supplier II-VIAs Apple prepares to potentially introduce its (mostly) secretive AR headset for possible introduction later this year and launch next...more

The mission to rise above the fray to become a leading player in the augmented reality business is a moving target that depends on innovation, resources, and timing. Last week, Campfire took advantage of these remote-centric times to introduce a new AR product to the market that could change how many of us work. • Don't Miss: Campfire AR Headset Emerges from Stealth to Offer 3D Collaborations for Enterprise & Design Teams The team is lead by CEO Jay Wright, the person who took over at the newly formed Meta View when it rose from the ashes of the now-defunct Meta Company. But that's all history, as the new team has developed a completely different AR system and philosophy designed to capture a very specific part of the market. We returned to Twitter Spaces once again to hold a public conversation with Wright to find out exactly what he has planned in terms of competing with existing AR solutions, leveraging some of the assets of the old team, and how the Campfire device was...more

One of the oldest electronic musical instruments is the theremin, a synthesizer that generates sound based on hand gestures, as featured in the classic "Good Vibrations" by the Beach Boys. Now, indie developer Lucas Rizzotto has taken the concept of the theremin and translated it to an augmented reality synthesizer app for HoloLens 2 that can turn people into musical instruments. Don't Miss: Control a Synthesizer with the HoloLens to Make Music in Mixed RealityYes, technically, people are already musical instruments, or at least those gifted with singing talent or possessing the ability to clap on beat, but bear with us here. After teasing his project on Twitter (which we, in turn, shared last week), Rizzotto has unveiled more details on his project in a (lengthy and dramatic) video on his YouTube channel. The app works via granular synthesis, or the deconstruction a music sample where the fragments can be manipulated to create new sounds. In his initial iteration, Rizzotto created a...more

The future of the HoloLens 2, according to Microsoft, is all about enterprise use cases. But that doesn't mean some of the more creative-minded HoloLens developers won't bend the top-tier augmented reality device to their own designs. The latest example of this trend comes from Japan. • Don't Miss: Microsoft Japan Helps Godzilla Invade Real World Tokyo via HoloLens If you've ever been to Tokyo, you may have seen the incredibly designed "Gundam building," which looks like a giant Gundam robot crouching among the normal buildings of the megalopolis. More recently, a life-sized Gundam was opened to visitors in Yokohama, Japan. Now, Japan-based HoloLens developer Asahi Sakamoto (aka GeekHoloRanger) has taken the futuristic inspiration of the Gundam robots and moved it into the world of augmented reality. Sakamoto created the model in the open source 3D graphic application Blender and then animated it ported it to the HoloLens 2. Asahi Sakamoto/YouTubeBut this isn't just a static model....more

As Apple prepares to potentially introduce its (mostly) secretive AR headset for possible introduction later this year and launch next year, the company has made a strategic investment to ensure its supply chain can support it. On Wednesday, Apple announced an award of $410 million from its Advanced Manufacturing fund to II-VI, an optics manufacturer that supplies the company with iPhone and iPad components that enable advanced AR experiences. Don't Miss: Concept Video Hints That First Mainstream AR Smartglasses Could Feature Glass from Apple-Backed Corning"The expansion of the company's long-standing relationship with II-VI will create additional capacity and accelerate delivery of future components for iPhone, with 700 jobs in Sherman, Texas; Warren, New Jersey; Easton, Pennsylvania; and Champaign, Illinois," Apple said in a statement on its website. II-VI supplies Apple with LiDAR sensors, which are embedded in its iPhone Pro and iPad Pro devices. LiDAR enables fast depth sensing...more

Two brands with affinities for augmented reality, Marvel and the NBA, joined forces to inject some AR superpowers into Monday night's matchup of the Golden State Warriors and New Orleans Pelicans. While ESPN carried the traditional broadcast of the game, ESPN2 delivered a special broadcast called Marvel's Arena of Heroes. The alternate broadcast was injected with comic book-style scorebox and graphics and various quotes from Marvel movies spliced into the play-by-play announcements, such as "Steph Curry is inevitable." Don't Miss: AT&T and NBA Launch Mobile AR Experience via Chicago Bulls AppThe game also had a storyline, with Marvel heroes selecting on-court champions to represent them. For the Warriors, Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins played on behalf of Captain Marvel, Doctor Stange, and Black Panther, respectively. Pelicans players Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Lorenzo Ball stood in for Captain America, Black Widow, and Iron Man. However, the highlight of...more

Thanks to the grandest of puns, May the 4th is Star Wars Day. And what better way to pay tribute to the space opera than with the augmented reality superpowers of Snapchat. While Disney has used AR via Snapchat, Facebook, and Google, among other outlets, to promote Star Wars properties, and now Lens Studio for Snapchat has enabled creators to build their own Star Wars AR experiences. Don't Miss: Next Reality's 30 People to Watch in Augmented Reality for 2020In previous editions of AR Snapshots, we've featured virtual lightsabers, Mandalorian helmets, and dancing Baby Yoda AR Lenses, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Here are more options for creating your own Star Wars AR content. This Is the Way for the Mandalorian AR EffectsThe Disney Plus series The Mandalorian has pumped some newfound excitement into the franchise. In turn, it has served as the muse for multiple Lenses, with some better than others. The viral star of the show, of course, is Baby Yoda. Thanks to the Baby Yoda...more

The Chicago Bulls may not be very relevant in the current NBA standings, but they do lead the league in one other area. With an assist from Nexus Studios, AT&T has debuted StatsZone, an augmented reality experience that presents game statistics in an immersive format, in the Chicago Bulls app. Don't Miss: NBA AR App Launches on Android & Adds Portals to PlayoffsLeveraging ARKit from Apple and ARCore from Google for horizontal plane detection, StatZone anchors a tabletop-sized virtual basketball court with customizable dashboards, shot charts, and animations that help visualize the numbers behind the game. AT&T/YouTubeWhile fans can review game stats over the past five years, the real treat comes during live games, where StatZone presents stats in real-time and celebratory animations. Potential future features include connecting StatZone to their fantasy basketball teams. "With the United Center not currently hosting fans, we've been focused on building at-home experiences around...more

If you're a developer working on the bleeding edge of augmented reality, or even an enthusiastic smartglasses early adopter, being first in line for new wearable hardware is a priority. Along those lines, Europe's Deutsche Telekom has opened up an opportunity to score a pair of its Tooz smartglasses before the official consumer launch. • Don't Miss: Deutsche Telekom & Zeiss Launch Smartglasses Startup Tooz The smartglasses are being framed as a subtle way to do everything from viewing messages to making calls, all while mostly keeping the optics subtle by using curved waveguides instead of planar waveguides. "It wears like my normal prescription glasses, just a bit heavier. If you look straight ahead normally, you initially only vaguely perceive the overlay at the edge of your field of vision. Thus, the overlays do not interfere with normal-looking," said Deutsche Telekom's Lisa Neunkirchen, in a statement. The Tooz Dev Kit "However, if you concentrate on the field, you almost...more

The progress Tooz has been making in the smartglasses space has been mostly kept under wraps, but the company is slowly giving us a deeper look at what it has in store for smartglasses wearers. In the latest update, Tooz and Adidas have revealed footage that shows off what the collaboration looks like in the field. Don't Miss: Deutsche Telekom Opens Early Access to Tooz Smartglasses via Dev KitThe actual augmented reality footage appears to still be in the "concept design" phase. ToozHowever, the hardware is complete and we get to see it on an athlete's face as he uses the Adidas Runtastic app to track his workout process. (You can see the full video at the bottom of this page.) "The collaboration with Adidas Runtastic has clearly shown that app content can be transferred very easily to the Tooz Smart Glasses and that wearers can benefit directly from this technology in sports and outdoor activities," says Dr. Kai Ströder, the CEO of Tooz, in a statement. "With the seamlessly...more

Facebook's annual earnings call on Wednesday didn't come with any big surprises, that is, if you took everything at face value. However, if you read between the lines, and paid close attention to the very specific and intentional language the company's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, used, then a few things stood out that reveal exactly where Facebook intends to take its nearly 3 billion users in the next year. • Don't Miss: Facebook Reality Labs Chief Teases AR Coming to Oculus Quest Gaming, Delves into Future Smartglasses Hardware As for Facebook's earnings, you won't be surprised to know that things are going quite well, with company revenue at $26.17 billion for the quarter, up 48% percent compared to last year. But you're here for the AR, so let's get to it. To start off, Zuckerberg immediately made it clear that his primary focus areas right now are augmented reality and VR (in that order), because his very first comments hit upon those areas. "Let's talk about building the next computing...more

The augmented reality space is no longer about if but when every company and creator will use some kind of immersive device and software to produce and distribute 3D content. Now, a surprise new contender has entered the AR arena and it's called Campire. • Don't Miss: Looking Glass Teams with Reggie Watts to Auction Holographic NFT Art, Paving Way for Popularizing AR Art You Can Hold The company emerged out of stealth on Tuesday, finally showing off its Campfire AR headset and system in action. Operating from California, the company raised $8 million in funding to fuel its entry into the market and has been working with legendary design firm Frog Design as its first test client for remote collaborations using the system. CampfireCampfire's system consists of three parts: the headset, which, design-wise, evokes visions of a cross between the HoloLens and the Meta 2 visor-based headset, a component they call the Console, which is used to anchor 3D virtual content, and the Pack, a device...more

Ever since the debut of the LiDAR Scanner in the latest batch of Apple's iPhones and iPads, the questions have swirled as to how this would benefit augmented reality interactions. Well, now we have one major new treat that could spur even more adoption and it's called AR Spaces. • Don't Miss: Apple's Clips App Lets You Put Yourself Inside the World of 'The Incredibles 2' The new feature is included in the 3.1 version of the Clips app and allows users to use an iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, and iPad Pro to scan a room and then have fun AR effects applied to the newly mapped environment. Apple As you can see from the demonstration videos, AR Spaces doesn't simply add a few virtual sparkles to scene, instead, the AR effects are integrated with your LiDAR scanned area to make the effects incredibly realistic. Included in the AR Spaces immersive visuals package are seven effects: Prism, Confetti, Disco, Dance Floor, Sparkles, Stardust, and Hearts. And thanks to AR segmentation and...more

The concept of Metaverse, otherwise referred to as AR cloud, where a digital twin of the real world filled with virtual content anchored persistently for all to see, has been a sci-fi dream of futurists for years and an aim for most tech companies who are serious about AR. It appears Snapchat's parent company Snap shares those aspirations. Don't Miss: How to Use Your Favorite Snapchat AR Lenses on Zoom, Skype, Meet & Other Video Conferencing AppsThis week, 3D mapping startup Pixel8.Earth confirmed that Snap has acquired the company. An SEC filing for Snap's quarterly earnings report revealed that the value of the deal was $6.7 million. Pixel8Earth"When Pramukta (Kumar), Winnie (Palangpour), Chris (Helm), and I started Pixel8.Earth we wanted to map the world in 3D and a few months ago we received an amazing boost to accomplish that goal. The Pixel8.earth team has joined Snap Inc. We are beyond excited to be part of Snap's Map and AR teams helping them overlay computing on the...more

Having found success in video games and a hugely popular Netflix series, The Witcher franchise is now on the hunt for the coin Pokémon GO has earned in location-based augented reality mobile games. Developer Spokko, a subsidiary of CD Projekt Red (the developer behind the console/PC games), has opened up registration for early access to the global "soft launch" of the Android version of The Witcher: Monster Slayer. Don't Miss: Niantic Previews the Future of AR Gaming with Codename: Urban Legends DemoAt the end of April, Spokko will draw names from registrants to receive early access to the app. Players interested in joining the hunt early can register at the game's website. Spokko/YouTubeSpokko/YouTubeCurrently, availability for the iOS version is limited to New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Philippines, and Russia via the App Store (no word on a wider rollout). A support page also lists early access for the Android version for New Zealand and Australia, but the Play Store link comes...more

The era of virtual meetings has been evolving every few months, with augmented reality filters leading the charge in changing the way we interact when chatting via video streams. Now Zoom, the current leader in the virtual meetings space, has changed the game again by bring a new kind of immersiveness to virtual meetings with Immersive View. • Don't Miss: Arvizio Brings AR Collaboration to Zoom Meetings with Immerse 3D App for Smartphones, HoloLens & Magic Leap The new feature was officially launched on Monday and allows all participants in a Zoom meeting to put themselves in a virtual environment together on-screen for the first time. Currently, the feature allows up to 25 people to occupy the same virtual space at the same time, which means that this immediately becomes a tool that even major conferences can use to hold speaker panels, for example. ZoomWe saw an early version of what this kind of immersive video meeting might be like with the debut of the Mmhmm app, which also...more

As the sports world slowly gets back to normal while observing pandemic protocols, fans are once again being folded into the mix in innovative ways. The latest example comes from the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and uses augmented reality via the Snapchat app. • Don't Miss: Wilder vs. Fury Boxing Rematch Will Feature an AR Experience & Sponsorship via a UFC Legend On Saturday, April 24, when users open the Snapchat app, a new sponsored Lens appears that allows anyone to make their picks for UFC 261. Using the head tracking feature in Snapchat, the Lens allows you to pick the winners of the top three main cards featuring Kamaru Usman versus Jorge Masvidal, Zhang Weili versus Rose Namajunas, and Valentina Shevchenko versus Jessica Andrade. Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality In addition to the picks, users are treated to the iconic voice of Bruce Buffer (known for his "It's Time!" phrase to open fights) calling out whichever...more

As a company, Facebook is not shy about talking up its AR smartglasses plans. The latest missive comes from two executives in charge of developing AR software and hardware. As far as we know, Amazon doesn't have plans to make AR smartglasses yet (and audio-only smartglasses don't count as AR). However, the company is getting into the salon business, and it does have plans for AR in that regard. Elsewhere, content is king, and AR is no exception. This week, Google, Snapchat, and Samsung demonstrated their latest examples of AR content and content generation for mobile devices. Facebook Execs Discuss Outlook for AR SmartglassesThe development of virtual reality at Facebook has been evolving lightspeed in the last few years. But while a relatively small group of VR enthusiasts and gamers are enjoying the social media giant's dedication to immersive headsets, it is the augmented reality space and its potential scale that truly has the tech market enthralled. Facebook Reality Labs chief...more

Disney Plus shows WandaVision and Falcon and the Winter Soldier are both streaming hits, but the two series could not be more different in terms of giving fans a taste of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, the two titles do have another thing in common: Marvel Studios delivered an AR experience for each of them just ahead of their finale episodes. Don't Miss: Marvel Expands Roster of Avengers Playmoji for Pixel Playground Ahead of 'Avengers: Endgame'While WandaVision's AR experience arrived via Facebook Messenger, Falcon and the Winter Soldier's AR content is locked away in the Disney Insider app for iOS. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality The experience starts with the Shield Challenge, a mini-game that replicates (spoiler alert) Sam Wilson's training sequence with Captain America's shield in the penultimate episode of the series. In order to play, you'll need a fairly wide open space, which you'll scan with your iPhone camera. Pro tip: scan as much of the...more

After integrating Snapchat into its latest Galaxy A Series smartphones, Samsung is trying out a new AR camera app for its army of mobile devices. The company recently released a beta version of AR Canvas, an experimental app for its Galaxy smartphones that gives users the ability to create semi-persistent AR scenes with a variety of images. Don't Miss: Here Are All the Things in You Can Do in Augmented Reality with the Samsung Galaxy S9 & S9+Using the rear-facing camera, users can type out and anchor 3D text, doodle, embed GIFs, and place photos from their photo gallery into their physical surroundings. SamsungSamsungSamsungAR Canvas also includes the ability to copy images recognized by the camera and paste them elsewhere in the scene, an ability previously seen in apps like Weird Cuts and DoodleLens. With the scene set, users can then save the scene for others to view it in that location within 30 days. "AR Canvas provides fun features to decorate the space around you with AR...more

It's Earth Day, which means that nonprofits, individuals, and brands are making a concerted effort to raise awareness of environmental issues and how to change behaviors to reverse impacts of pollution, deforestation, and suburban sprawl, among others. Leading the charge is Snap by stepping up to this challenge by using the augmented reality powers of Snapchat to illustrate problems we face across the planet. Don't Miss: Snapchat Celebrates Earth Day with Sobering Augmented Reality Look at Rising Sea LevelsWorking in partnership with the AR/VR team at Google, Snap recruited Lens Studio creators to craft five interactive AR experiences using the Depth API in ARCore. Three of these Lenses center on the effects of pollution on wildlife, particularly the dumping of plastics and other trash and the spilling of oil in our oceans. In Saving Chelon by Aidan Wolf, you are tasked with guiding the titular sea turtle through a virtual underwater environment using a light controlled by the...more

As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, so, too, does the demand for video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. For its part, Google is banking on some augmented reality tricks to give Google Meet some added value for users. Don't Miss: Add Some Fun to Your Zoom Video Calls by Changing Your Virtual BackgroundThis week, Google unveiled a host of interface tweaks and improvements for Google Meet, including the addition of AI-powered virtual lighting adjustments and automatic zooming and centering. The one that caught our attention, though, is the addition of virtual video backgrounds. By now, video conferencing veterans are familiar with how to add virtual backgrounds to Zoom, Teams, and Meet calls, with Google extending the capability to iOS and Android apps last month. Google takes this fun perk a step further, with three options for video backdrops — classroom, forest, and party — rolling out to users within the coming weeks. More video options will be added...more

Gamers, anime fans, and those with an interest in Japanese culture are in for an AR treat courtesy of Google. On Tuesday, the company added 14 3D renditions of popular Japanese characters, headlined by pop culture icons Pac-Man and Hello Kitty, to its roster of augmented reality content available in Google Search. Don't Miss: Hands-On: Here's How Augmented Reality in Google Search WorksIn addition to Pac-Man and Hello Kitty, you can view Ultraman, Ultraman Zero, Ultraman Belial, Gomorra, Evangelion (Evangelion Unit 1), Gundam (Odusseus Gundam, Kusui Gundam, Penelope), Kogimyun, Taiko Master, Pompompurin, and Little Twin Stars. Google/YouTubeSome of the characters come with special animations or sound effects. For instance, Pac-Man gobble dots while being chased by ghosts, while Hello Kitty greats you in Japanese and English. Each of the AR characters can be scaled in size and captured in photos or videos for sharing elsewhere, but the additional effects could make for some interesting...more

Snap introduced some fantastic new augmented reality abilities in version 3.4 of Lens Studio, the company's tool that allows anyone to create AR lenses for the Snapchat app. The newest features include improved hand tracking and full-body segmentation. The Lens Studio community has wasted no time in putting these capabilities to the test. The results include virtual recreations of popular sci-fi tech along with some amusing and visually stunning effects. Let's check them out... Don't Miss: Next Reality's 30 People to Watch in Augmented Reality for 2020I Am Iron Man in ARSnapchat can't help you become a genius billionaire playboy philanthropist like Tony Stark, but it can give you a virtual suit of armor. Using the full-body segmentation, the Iron Man Suit covers your full body in the familiar hot rod red and yellow suit without the need for spinning wheels, suitcases, nanotechnology, or other ostentatious suit-up contraptions. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality...more

Apple's augmented reality teases just keep on coming from the halls of its Cupertino labs. The latest comes in the form of an invitation to Apple's next public-facing event. • Don't Miss: A Brief History of Apple AR Smartglasses Rumors Slated for April 20, at 1 p.m. ET, the Apple invite is a simple swirl of color in the shape of the company's iconic logo. But when you point your iPhone or iPad camera at the graphic, you're treated to a hidden surprise…an AR experience. Adario Strange/Next Reality Adario Strange/Next Reality As long as you're using an ARKit-compatible iOS device, the device's camera will trigger the graphic's AR mode and ask you to scan your surroundings in order to place the virtual object. Once that's done, you'll see a swirl of unpredictable lines that coalesce into an AR version of Apple's logo wherever you might be. Of course, this isn't the first time Apple has hidden AR within its event invites, but speculation has never been this high as to what AR product the...more

For better or for worse, Google started the race towards smartglasses for everyday use with Google Glass before scrapping the Explorer Edition and pivoting towards enterprise customers. Now, with Apple, Facebook, Snap, and even Pokémon GO maker Niantic working toward consumer-grade smartglasses, Google is conspicuously absent, either in rumor or public disclosure. Don't Miss: Google Just Made It Easier to Get Your Hands on Glass Enterprise Edition 2But that might be changing, as recent job postings suggest that Google is shoring up its hardware resources for AR wearables. The company currently has 18 open positions for jobs in augmented reality, many posted within the last month and a few posted in just the last few days. This list of new AR-focused roles includes at least one position recently reposted on LinkedIn, signaling some urgency to get the AR jobs filled. After Google acquired North, it scrapped plans for second-generation Focals smartglasses. Most of the positions are for...more

The pandemic has forced a number of public-facing businesses to either temporarily close or permanently cease operations, with one of the biggest victims of this trend being the movie theater business. This week, the historic ArcLight Cinemas and Pacific Theatres, which account for 300 screens in the US, announced that it would be shuttering due to economic difficulties related to the pandemic. • Don't Miss: ReplayAR Anchors Your Photos in Real-World Locations So You Can View Them in AR Later And while some in Hollywood are still holding out hope for a last-minute save, one augmented reality company is already preserving the theater chain's history in a unique way. The team at ReplayAR has collected a series of historic photos shot at ArcLight's most iconic theater, the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, to give movie fans an immersive memory of what they may be about to lose. The app, which was launched in 2019 for iOS and Android, allows you to anchor AR photos to geographic locations,...more

At its height, the COVID-19 pandemic forced many auto showrooms to close their doors. As the pandemic persists, many consumers are still hesitant to let their socially distanced guard down. To solve this dilemma for its dealers in the UK, BMW has launched a web-based AR experience that serves as an immersive augmented reality showroom. Don't Miss: 8th Wall Escalates Race for Volumetric Video Content with Microsoft Mixed Reality Capture SupportThe BMW Virtual Viewer displays three of BMW's Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), namely the X5, X1, and 3 Series Touring, although BMW plans to add more models to the viewer as they launch. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality The AR experience allows you to scale the size of the virtual models and change the color, wheels, and interior. You can also explore the interior and interact with features of the car, including opening doors, turning on lights, and playing songs on the stereo....more

Over the past three years, Epic Games has raised billions of dollars in funding on the success of Fortnite as well as Unreal Engine, one of the top 3D engines available for developing games and AR experiences. But, with its latest massive funding round, it has its eyes set on the Metaverse. Don't Miss: Unreal Engine Maker Epic Games Lands $1.25 Billion Investment to Drive Future of Gaming & AROn Tuesday, Epic Games closed a $1 billion funding round that brings its total equity valuation to $28.7 billion. The company will apply the funding towards future growth opportunities, chief among them Epic's flavor of the Metaverse. "We are grateful to our new and existing investors who support our vision for Epic and the Metaverse. Their investment will help accelerate our work around building connected social experiences in Fortnite, Rocket League and Fall Guys, while empowering game developers and creators with Unreal Engine, Epic Online Services and the Epic Games Store," said Tim Sweeney,...more

When most people think of Los Angeles they think of Hollywood and the movie industry, but in the last 10 years the city has rapidly transformed into a thriving new hub for visual artists. In recognition of this phenomenon, LA-based Snapchat has embraced the community by teaming up with a group of artists to create a series of stunning augmented reality monuments and murals around the city. • Don't Miss: This Atari 3D Sneaker NFT Auction Is Using Snapchat to Let You Try Before You Buy on the Blockchain The immersive art series is called "LACMA × Snapchat: Monumental Perspectives" and was developed in conjunction with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). "No Finish Line" by Glenn Kaino Spread across the city, the five immersive art installations can be experienced at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, MacArthur Park, Earvin "Magic" Johnson Park, and LACMA. To find the experiences, users can simply tap the Map icon in the Snapchat app. "Portal for Tovaangar" by Mercedes Dorame...more

The year 2020 sparked a trend of people moving out of big cities, with some opting to buy mobile homes and vans to travel rather than be cooped up in a tiny apartment during quarantine. Predictably, that led to a bit of an inventory shortage. But now that demand is eased a bit in 2021, Airstream is using augmented reality to sell one of its best vehicles available. • Don't Miss: Volvo Teams with Unity to Let You Test Out the XC40 SUV in AR, Launches Developer Innovation Portal In the wake of celebrities like Lenny Kravitz making trailer living sexy again, Airstream is banking on that glam cachet along with the continued struggles of pandemic living to bolster its alternative living solution. Adario Strange/Next Reality By scanning the code below, you can now put a life-sized version of the Airstream Basecamp 20 (which starts at $39,100, before adding optional features) in your own space and tour its many features. Since the AR experience is web-based, the immersive tour works on both...more

This week, Google showed off some wild new and innovative AR experiences that showcase the WebXR protocol for browser-based AR content, while 8th Wall applied its own web-based AR platform in service of Captain Morgan. Meanwhile, other brands, including Hulu, Coinbase, and Ray-Ban, are leaning on Snapchat to generate awareness and sales for their offerings. Speaking of Snapchat, it has also become a destination for music artists to draw attention to their new singles and albums. However, one music artist capturing headlines has gone into another rather interesting direction. Google Shows Off WebXR Experiments for Android & ChromeOn its Experiments with Google hub, Google has aggregated a collection of AR experiences built on the WebXR standard that show off the outer reaches of what is possible for web-based AR development. Probably the coolest of the AR experiences in the WebXR collection is Floom, which opens a portal to the other side of the globe at your feet. Continue reading to...more

We've reached the point in the trajectory of augmented reality's growth where AR advertising experiences are becoming commonplace tactics rather than rare experiments. Some of the more impressive examples of AR ads to emerge recently come from Hulu, Coinbase and Ray-Ban via Snapchat, along with a web-based AR experience from Captain Morgan built with the 8th Wall Web platform. Don't Miss: Snapchat Can Turn Your 12-Pack of Labatt Blue Beer into a Virtual NHL ArenaTo promote the second season of its original series Solar Opposites (from the Rick and Morty co-creator Justin Roiland), Hulu has published a Sponsored Lens reflecting the aesthetic of the animated sci-fi sitcom. Starting with the front-facing camera, lead character Korvo instructs you to lift your hand, where a sci-fi rock will materialize. Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality Tommy Palladino/Next Reality From there, the experience switches to the rear-facing camera, where you are prompted to draw a...more

Snapchat and its augmented reality capabilities have become a haven for music artists seeking to promote their new albums or simply amplify their art with immersive experiences. We've seen the likes of Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Ariana Grande publish Snapchat Lenses to push their new releases, while Bruno Mars and others have created augmented reality effects with Lens Studio that act as extensions of their work. Don't Miss: How to Expand Your Available AR Effects for Your 3D Spectacles Videos In this edition of AR Snapshots, we highlight AR experiences from some of the hottest artists around, including Billie Eilish, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Justin Bieber, and Taylor Swift. And if you're thinking the old school of music isn't getting enough immersive attention, we also have an AR experience in tribute to The Beatles for you. Get Emo with Billie EilishEmerging via Soundcloud, singer/songwriter Billie Eilish has risen to stardom with her electronic pop sound with emo and goth...more

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook enjoyed a boost in sales of Portal, its smart video cameras with AR effects, as social distancing became the norm. Now, with the pandemic continuing despite the deployment of several vaccines, the Portal portfolio is positioned to become your dedicated Zoom device as well. Don't Miss: Hands-On: Facebook Pioneers Augmented Reality for the TV with Latest Portal HardwareOn Wednesday, Facebook updated Portal TV, the smart camera/streaming box hybrid for televisions, to support GoToMeeting and Zoom. Facebook/YouTubeThe company previously extended support for these platforms to its standalone Portal devices, which also support BlueJeans and Webex. A Facebook spokesperson confirmed that the company plans to bring support for BlueJeans and Webex to Portal TV at a later date. Zoom on Portal also supports the popular virtual backgrounds that add a spark of fun to drab video conference calls. In addition, Zoom on Portal TV brings much of the same...more