Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Google's Steve Lee talks about the history and future of Project Glass]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/google-steve-lee-project-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/google-steve-lee-project-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/30/google-steve-lee-project-glass/#comments Google's Steve Lee talks about the history and future of Project Glass

Details on Google's Project Glass haven't been the easiest thing to come by since the wearable computing effort was announced earlier this year, but Google execs have been getting a bit more talkative and eager to give demonstrations as of late. You can now add product lead Steve Lee to that list, who's given a fairly wide-ranging interview to Fast Company on the project's origins and its future. Not surprisingly, he confirmed that the early prototypes were a fair bit bulkier -- starting a laptop in a backpack -- and that even the current prototypes are still "very early," although they do handle more than just photos (he gives Maps as one example). Lee does see photo-taking as a "key aspect" to the device, though.

He also cast some doubt on initial reports that the devices would be available this year for between $250 and $600, saying that would be "pretty aggressive timing," but he also noted that he "wouldn't be on this project if it was like a five-year endeavor." As for the future, he says that contact lenses with the technology is a natural evolution but a definite "long-term thing," and that a nearer term goal is to "serve everyone and make this is a universal device," adding that they've "prototyped lots of different form factors to accommodate all those folks." All of that comes just from the first part of a two-part interview, though -- the rest is promised later this week.

Google's Steve Lee talks about the history and future of Project Glass originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 May 2012 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityglassglassesgoogleproject glassProjectGlasssteve leeSteveLeewearable computingWearableComputingWed, 30 May 2012 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Prototype glasses help the visually impaired avoid obstacles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/prototype-glasses-help-the-visually-impaired-avoid-obstacles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/prototype-glasses-help-the-visually-impaired-avoid-obstacles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/prototype-glasses-help-the-visually-impaired-avoid-obstacles/#comments Prototype glasses help the visually impaired avoid obstacles

The crafty engineers at Google aren't the only ones working on augmented reality glasses. Researchers at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid have created a prototype system, based around a head-mounted display and a pair of small cameras. Instead of overlaying info about landmarks or capturing video of your trampoline-based escapades, this prototype is simply meant to help the visually impaired detect and avoid obstacles. A small computer performs real-time analysis of the environment highlighting objects and color coding them to indicate distance. The goal is to help those with glaucoma and other impairments that hinder depth perception. The next step is to streamline the device, making the computer portion of it smaller and more portable and to make the goggles less cumbersome. For more detail check out the source link.

Prototype glasses help the visually impaired avoid obstacles originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 May 2012 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arar glassesArGlassesaugmented realityaugmented reality glassesAugmentedRealityAugmentedRealityGlasseshealthInstituto de Oftalmología AplicadaInstitutoDeOftalmologíaAplicadamedicineresearchvisually impairedVisuallyImpairedTue, 29 May 2012 16:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Google patents view augmentation method and glasses, sees what you cannot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/google-patents-view-augmentation-method-and-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/google-patents-view-augmentation-method-and-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/google-patents-view-augmentation-method-and-glasses/#comments Google patents view augmentation method and glasses, sees what you cannot

Google continues to keep our friends down at the US Patents and Trademark Office busy with its latest filing, involving augmented reality and a pair of relatively staid (at least by these sketches) pair of glasses. The patent outlines a system where a view-finder could identify what we're gawking at, adding in extra factual details and also outlining new points of interest -- including those that aren't necessarily within the view of our own eyes. The glasses would then be able to notify us with a medley of visual indicators and cues (including the slightly awkward notion of light-up frames), guiding our gaze to something we'd hopefully want to take a look at.

There's more to Google's latest idea than simple tourist-centric finger-pointing though, also looking to augment how we read. The device would detect when someone is reading from a digital display and even feel out the rest of the information currently out of view. It would then direct readers to points of interest; possibly pictures, possibly those important factual nuggets -- the patent still plays loose with the specifics. But if you're into such vague and fanciful product description, you can take a look at the full filing at the source below.

Google patents view augmentation method and glasses, sees what you cannot originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 May 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityaugmented viewAugmentedRealityAugmentedViewglassglassesgooglepatentproject glassProjectGlassUnited States Patent and Trademark OfficeUnitedStatesPatentAndTrademarkOfficeusptoTue, 29 May 2012 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Project Glass... it's spreading (sample video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/googles-project-glass-sample-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/googles-project-glass-sample-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/googles-project-glass-sample-video/#comments Google's Project Glass... it's spreading

Now, we're not saying Google's elite are actually aliens managing human social affairs, but if you were our reader Ben who ran into a crew of Project Glass-equipped Googlers breaking for drinks at a Los Gatos wine bar, it might seem like a possibility. Beyond filing tons of paperwork, the team is clearly expanding quickly and most recently took part in the Google+ photographer's conference to show off what POV pictures and video (even if that's most of the functionality so far) could add to the world of photography. They wouldn't let Ben try on a pair, but Vic Gundotra reiterated that it was positioned as not to interfere with conversations, and make images appear to be floating in front of your eye. There's video of the photography presentation after the break (jump to about 45 minutes for the first person pics and video), as well as a few more pictures on Google+, but we'd keep a pair of special black sunglasses and bubblegum handy just in case.


[Thanks, Ben]

Continue reading Google's Project Glass... it's spreading (sample video)

Google's Project Glass... it's spreading (sample video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 May 2012 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitycharles mendisCharlesMendisglassesgooglegoogle project glassGoogleProjectGlassheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayhudphotographyproject glassProjectGlasssimon prakashSimonPrakashsteve leeSteveLeevic gundotraVicGundotravideoFri, 25 May 2012 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Google glasses gets raft of new patents, sniffs lawsuits coming from miles away]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/google-glasses-gets-raft-of-new-patents-sniffs-lawsuits-coming/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/google-glasses-gets-raft-of-new-patents-sniffs-lawsuits-coming/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/google-glasses-gets-raft-of-new-patents-sniffs-lawsuits-coming/#comments Image

Google will find four more granted patents for Project Glass sitting on its over-sized doorstep this morning. The company can now claim rights over the design of the right half of the device, where the camera hangs over the eye and where the innards are housed within the band along the side. It's also patented the nose-pad sensor that knows when it's being worn, plus the ability to represent ambient sounds on the screen with range and direction info. Finally, it's also got rights on using each eyepiece as a separate display, with the example shown above demonstrating a map in one eye and navigation instructions in the other. The more we sift through the paperwork, the more we're reminded of the Dominion Warship headsets from Deep Space Nine -- but that could be just because we've been locked indoors for too long.

Google glasses gets raft of new patents, sniffs lawsuits coming from miles away originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARAugmented RealityAugmentedRealityFashionGlassesGoogleGoogle GlassesGoogleGlassesPatentPatent GrantPatentGrantPatentsProject GlassProjectGlassUSPTOUSTPOTue, 22 May 2012 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Project Glass prototypes can transfer still images, do little else]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-project-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-project-glass/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-project-glass/#comments Image

This was probably a given, but there won't be any freakishly detailed social profile overlay as you pass strangers on the street in the initial iteration of "Google Glasses." Instead, current prototype functionality includes features like photo sharing (directly from the eyewear to Google+), and... well, that could be it. The in-your-face functionality that we saw in the original Google teaser could come "one day," as the video title itself reveals, but we certainly won't be creepin' on random friends-to-be on sidewalks, trains and parties for some time to come. And just in case you're curious to see what you won't be doing with Project Glass this year, Google's original teaser is after the break, with a popular parody vid tossed in below for good measure.

Continue reading Google's Project Glass prototypes can transfer still images, do little else

Google's Project Glass prototypes can transfer still images, do little else originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityglassesgooglegoogle eyegoogle glassesGoogleEyeGoogleGlassesheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayhudminipostproject glassProjectGlassprototypevideoTue, 15 May 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Those suave Google glasses are now patent-protected]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-glasses-design-patent/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-glasses-design-patent/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/google-glasses-design-patent/#comments Those suave Google glasses are now patent-protected

Google has successfully patented the "ornamental design" of its augmented reality eyewear. To you, me and Aunty Dee they might look almost like regular Ray-Bans, but there's a lot of secret technology concealed within those sleek lines and Google evidently wants to prevent others from copying their appearance. After all, if people started faking Project Glass, it'd be impossible to tell if we're being properly scanned or merely checked out.

Those suave Google glasses are now patent-protected originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 May 2012 06:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearancearaugmented realityAugmentedRealitydesign patentDesignPatentfashionglassesgooglegoogle glassesGoogleGlassespatentproject glassProjectGlassstyleusptoTue, 15 May 2012 06:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer touts world's first car GPS with augmented reality HUD (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/pioneer-touts-worlds-first-car-gps-with-augmented-reality/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/pioneer-touts-worlds-first-car-gps-with-augmented-reality/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/pioneer-touts-worlds-first-car-gps-with-augmented-reality/#comments Image

We've seen augmented reality, and GPS with augmented reality, but we haven't seen the two combined at the front of a car's windshield. A pair of Cyber Navi rigs from Pioneer promise to change all that, using an add-on, laser-projected heads-up display from MicroVision that shows driving directions just above the road itself, making sure that you focus on what's in front rather than squinting at the LCD off to the side. If you do need to look at that LCD, however, you'll get yet another augmented reality view if your car has a camera up front, more detail about the route and a new speed limit sign alert system. The usual rounds of DVD media, iPhone/iPod playback and 1Seg over-the-air TV tuning are also on tap. Buying either of the new HUD-equipped GPS units will require a deep wallet, some patience and an airplane trip to Japan, however -- the 2-DIN ZH99 and dual 1-DIN VH99 cost ¥300,000 and ¥320,000 ($3,770 and $4,021) respectively, and their late July release isn't known to include the US at this stage.

Continue reading Pioneer touts world's first car GPS with augmented reality HUD (video)

Pioneer touts world's first car GPS with augmented reality HUD (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1segaugmented realityAugmentedRealityaviccarrozzeriacyber naviCyberNaviGPSgps navigationGpsNavigationheads up displayheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayHeadsUpDisplayHUDJapannavigationnavigation systemNavigationSystemPioneerpioneer avicpioneer cyber naviPioneerAvicPioneerCyberNavivideoWed, 09 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Vic Gundotra tries Project Glass on for size]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/googles-vic-gundotra-tries-project-glass-on-for-size/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/googles-vic-gundotra-tries-project-glass-on-for-size/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/googles-vic-gundotra-tries-project-glass-on-for-size/#comments Image

Looks like we're starting to get a little insight into Google's Project Glass testing process. Seems like the augmented reality glasses need to make their way onto every head on the Google staff, before the company feels confident moving ahead with them. First we caught sight of co-founder Sergey Brin, then it was Sebastian Thrun of Project X fame, and now social exec Vic Gundotra is getting a crack. He looks reasonably happy, so that's probably a good sign, right?

Update: Looks like Google employee Sebastian Thrun actually tried one on... and got a photo of what it looks like from the inside. Head on the past the break for a glimpse.

Continue reading Google's Vic Gundotra tries Project Glass on for size

Google's Vic Gundotra tries Project Glass on for size originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityglassesgooglegoogle project glassGoogleProjectGlassheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayminipostproject glassProjectGlassTue, 08 May 2012 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia City Lens arrives for trials on Lumia devices, augments your reality (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/nokia-city-lens-arrives-for-trials-on-lumia-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/nokia-city-lens-arrives-for-trials-on-lumia-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/nokia-city-lens-arrives-for-trials-on-lumia-devices/#comments Nokia City Lens arrives for trials on Lumia devices, augments your reality (video)

Nokia's rolling more of its experimental Symbian projects out to its Windows Phone hardware and City Lens is the latest to arrive in its immaculately-kept Beta Labs. Not to be confused with existing efforts, it throws together an augmented reality interface to give you a better overview of the best places to eat in town, and those tourist hotspots you simply must see. It'll then connect with your current location (which can be shared with your your contacts) and even offer up directions if you're in need. The app remains in testing for now, but you can help Nokia out by donning your labcoat and registering for its Beta Labs at the source below.

Continue reading Nokia City Lens arrives for trials on Lumia devices, augments your reality (video)

Nokia City Lens arrives for trials on Lumia devices, augments your reality (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitybetaBeta LabsBetaLabsCity LensCityLenslumianokianokia beta labsNokia City Lensnokia lumiaNokiaBetaLabsNokiaCityLensNokiaLumiatestingvideoTue, 08 May 2012 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Augmented reality sandbox lets you change the course of rivers, won't get you wet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/augmented-reality-sandbox-lets-you-change-the-course-of-rivers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/augmented-reality-sandbox-lets-you-change-the-course-of-rivers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/augmented-reality-sandbox-lets-you-change-the-course-of-rivers/#comments

Image

Ask any kid, playing in the sandbox is fun enough on its own, but too much moisture will turn your grainy playground into a lumpy mess. Researchers at UC Davis have cooked up one solution: an augmented reality sandbox. Much like last year's SandyStation, the project uses a Kinect sensor in conjunction with a digital projector and a bit of software to overlay topographical data and simulated water over a traditional -- and dry -- sandbox. The end result is an augmented environment that can be used to teach geographic, geologic and hydrological concepts. The team hopes the project will help them develop hands-on exhibits for science museums, teaching visitors about contour lines, watersheds, catchment areas and more. Check out the video above for a full demo, or scope out the source below for the technical nitty-gritty.

Augmented reality sandbox lets you change the course of rivers, won't get you wet originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 May 2012 04:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AR kinectAR sandboxArKinectArSandboxaugmented realityaugmented reality sandboxAugmentedRealityAugmentedRealitySandboxdigital projectorDigitalProjectorgeographicgeologichydrologicalkinectkinect ARKinectArmicrosoftsandboxSci/TechUC DavisUcDavisUniversity of California, DavisvideoMon, 07 May 2012 04:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Glass makes a TV appearance on Charlie Rose, flashes its rear for the cameras]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/project-glass-sebastian-thrun-charlie-rose-battery/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/project-glass-sebastian-thrun-charlie-rose-battery/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/27/project-glass-sebastian-thrun-charlie-rose-battery/#comments Project Glass makes a TV appearance on Charlie Rose, flashes its rear for the cameras

Google fellow, founder of Project X and self-driving car pioneer Sebastian Thrun became the latest to publicly rock a Project Glass prototype (after company co-founder Sergey Brin) on a recent episode of Charlie Rose, and managed to show off a whole new side of the project in the process. While the 19-minute interview was mostly unremarkable product-wise with a focus on higher education and his Udacity project, we did get to see him take a picture of the host (about a minute in) by tapping it, then posting it on Google+ by nodding twice. Also, as Electronista points out, in a brief reverse shot (17:20) of Thrun we see for the first time what appears to be a small battery pack / transmitter portion lodged behind his ear. Of course, we're still not any closer to rocking the latest in bionic man-chic ourselves, but at least we can start getting fitted for one now.

Project Glass makes a TV appearance on Charlie Rose, flashes its rear for the cameras originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 04:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitybatterycharlie roseCharlieRosegooglegoogle plusgoogle+GooglePlusheads up displayheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayHeadsUpDisplayhudproject glassProjectGlasssebastian thrunSebastianThruntransmittertv showTvShowFri, 27 Apr 2012 04:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Brother AirScouter glasses bring augmented reality, unsightly add-ons to your face]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/brother-airscouter-glasses-bring-augmented-reality-unsightly-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/brother-airscouter-glasses-bring-augmented-reality-unsightly-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/brother-airscouter-glasses-bring-augmented-reality-unsightly-ad/#comments Image

Head-mounted displays may be all the rage as of late, thanks to Sergey Brin's own recent fashion choices, but the space is hardly new. Brother, for one, has been in the game for a while now, with its AirScouter glasses, and before fellow printer-maker Epson steals all its glory, the company wants you to know that it's got some new wearable augmented reality on the way. The AirScouter WD-100G and WD-100A are being targeted toward business users, allowing workers to get all of the relevant information from their computer, without staring at a proper monitor -- of course, you're going to want to use the included USB cable to tether you to that PC. The glasses do SVGA images in full color over an eye, while the other eye remains unobstructed, keeping you relatively aware of your surroundings -- best of all, you can choose the eye. The new AirScouters will be available in Japan this summer for a pricey ¥199,800. But really, how can you put a price on looking like the business casual version of the Terminator?

Continue reading Brother AirScouter glasses bring augmented reality, unsightly add-ons to your face

Brother AirScouter glasses bring augmented reality, unsightly add-ons to your face originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airscouterairscouter WD-100Aairscouter WD-100GAirscouterWd-100aAirscouterWd-100gaugmented realityAugmentedRealitybrotherbrother airscouterBrotherAirscouterglasseshead mounted displayHeadMountedDisplayTue, 17 Apr 2012 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/#commentsDARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)DARPA saw the battlefield potential in AR glasses ages ago, when even Sergey Brin was happy to wear regular Ray-Bans. It's now stepped up its investment, giving more cash to one of its research contractors -- a company called Innovega -- to produce prototype contact lenses that could make military wearable HUDs smaller and less conspicuous. Innovega's iOptik lenses don't actually include a display, but rather allow the human eye to focus on an image from a separate accessory that sits right up close to the eyeball. The lenses have different zones that give the wearer multiple areas of focus, so they can see the overlaid augmented reality HUD -- such as a feed from an overhead drone -- but also warlike events going on in the immediate environment. Judging from the video after the break, however, calling them plain 'bifocals' might be taboo.

Continue reading DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)

DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitybifocalcombatcontact lenscontact lensesContactLensContactLensesdarpafocusglassesgogglesheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayHUDinnovegaioptiklensmilitarymulti-focusvideowarFri, 13 Apr 2012 05:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Glass team member shows off mockup for glasses-wearers, says it's for 'everyone']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/google-project-glass-with-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/google-project-glass-with-glasses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/google-project-glass-with-glasses/#comments Project Glass team member shows off mockup for glasses-wearers, says it's for 'everyone'While Google isn't ready to answer all of the questions we have about its Project Glass concept yet, a member of the team has chimed in on one of the most common questions -- could it work even the user wears prescription glasses? Industrial designer Isabelle Olsson says the team ideally wants it to work for everyone, and posted a photo of the Glass-on-glasses mockup shown above to her Google+ page. Unless you're a Google exec this doesn't bring you any closer to going retinas-on with the heads-up display / augmented reality project yourself, but hopefully it keeps the dream alive even for the near / far sighted among us.

Project Glass team member shows off mockup for glasses-wearers, says it's for 'everyone' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityconceptdesignglassesgoogleheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayhudminipostmockupproject glassProjectGlassspectaclesThu, 12 Apr 2012 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: autos galore, electric trees and the world's largest rooftop farm]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/inhabitat-electric-trees-cars-rooftop-farm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/inhabitat-electric-trees-cars-rooftop-farm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/inhabitat-electric-trees-cars-rooftop-farm/#comments Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Electric DeLorean
Flying cars and taxis of the future drove out of our imaginations and onto the show floor of the 2012 New York Auto Show this week as autophiles poured into the Jacob Javits Center from far and wide. Inhabitat editors left no hybrid or electric cars unturned as they scoped out gems like the Fisker Karma's lower-priced but equally-sexy cousin, the Fisker Atlantic, and Infiniti's revolutionary LE electric car, which will use the world's first wireless home charging system. We were also wowed by reveals of the Lincoln MKZ hybrid vehicle and a special guest appearance by the back-to-the-futuristic electric DeLorean (shown above).

Even though we kicked the week off with some pretty plausible April Fool's Day stories, some of the actual events from the past few days proved that truth is often stranger than fiction. Case in point: this Indian man single-handedly planted a 1,360 acre forest (really makes you question what you've accomplished in your life, doesn't it?) and a spooky unmanned Japanese ghost ship was recently spotted off the coast of Canada floating aimlessly in the sea. In other news, Harry the Hermit crab was picky about his abodes until he was presented with a custom-made LEGO shell, and the electric blue trees that sprouted up in Seattle weren't stragglers from a Dr. Seuss book, but rather the work of an artist calling attention to the dangers of deforestation. On the other hand, some reforestation is about to take place in NYC, as Marty Markowitz and celebrity chef Mario Batali announced that the world's largest rooftop farm will be coming to Brooklyn in 2013. And finally, it seems the media made April Fools of themselves last week when they jumped to the false conclusion that taxpayer money was lost after Solar Trust of America filed for bankruptcy.

The world of design presented us with some inspiring new developments this week as we delved deep into tiny terrarium worlds, ogled IKEA's otherworldly new jellyfish lamp and witnessed an eco Easter egg sprout mini skyscrapers just in time for the holiday. More strides were also made in the race for cleaner energy as this young savant at the University of Delaware developed a self-sustaining solar reactor that could revolutionize clean energy as we know it and Bayer revealed a new seismic wallpaper that could actually keep walls from collapsing in an earthquake. Not to be outdone, scientists from Austria and Japan announced that they created micro-thin solar cells narrower than spider silk and Chinese researchers unlocked the secret of butterfly wings to make solar electricity more efficient. And, of course, no tech recap would be complete without an innovation from Google - the search giant just unveiled its new pair of "Project Glass" augmented reality glasses.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: autos galore, electric trees and the world's largest rooftop farm originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 20:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARaugmented realityAugmentedRealityecoeco-friendlyelectric carElectricCarfiskergooglegreeninhabitatInhabitats Week in GreenInhabitatsWeekInGreenproject glassProjectGlassscienceSun, 08 Apr 2012 20:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Google co-founder Sergey Brin spotted wearing Project Glass prototype IRL]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-project-glass-sergey-brin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-project-glass-sergey-brin/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/06/google-project-glass-sergey-brin/#comments ImageWondering what it might be like to sport Google's Project Glass augmented reality HUD in your daily life? It would appear company co-founder Sergey Brin already knows, as he was spotted by tech pundits Robert Scoble and Thomas Hawk rocking a prototype at a Dining in the Dark charity event for the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Scoble has already posted a couple of pictures with Brin on Google+, mentioning more photos would be forthcoming from Hawk after the event concluded and that he'd heard other people, including Google exec Vic Gundotra, have the devices already. For now he mentions the glasses appeared to be "self contained" and that he could see a blueish light flashing on Brin's eyes. Hit the source link for more pics and details, we'll let you know if we find out more later -- details on where to snag a set may remain confidential until we've had a chance to try them on first, of course.

Google co-founder Sergey Brin spotted wearing Project Glass prototype IRL originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 01:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityglassesgooglegoogle eyegoogle glassesGoogleEyeGoogleGlasseshudproject glassProjectGlassprototypesergey brinSergeyBrinthomas hawkThomasHawkFri, 06 Apr 2012 01:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Google testing heads-up display glasses in public, won't make you look like Robocop]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/google-testing-heads-up-display-glasses-in-public-wont-make-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/google-testing-heads-up-display-glasses-in-public-wont-make-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/google-testing-heads-up-display-glasses-in-public-wont-make-yo/#comments Image
The good news: Google has started testing those augmented reality glasses we heard about earlier in the year. The bad news: if the artsy shots of the test units are to be believed, they won't make you look like some '80s cinematic anti-hero. In fact, the things wouldn't look too out of place in a New York Times style story. The software giant let it be known that, while it hasn't quite got a sale date on the wearables, it's ready to test ProjectGlass amongst the non-augmented public. The company is also looking for feedback on the project, writing in a post today, "we want to start a conversation and learn from your valuable input." Want some idea of what ProjectGlass might offer the public? Sure, it's not quite as good as strapping a pair on your own eyes, but interested parties can check out a video of Google's vision after the break.

Update: Might this be known as Google Eye? Given that Google owns googleeye.com, it's certainly cropping up as a possibility.

Continue reading Google testing heads-up display glasses in public, won't make you look like Robocop

Google testing heads-up display glasses in public, won't make you look like Robocop originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityglassesgooglegoogle glassesGoogleGlassesheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayprojectglasstestingWed, 04 Apr 2012 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Orbotix update proves that six Spheros are better than one (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/orbotix-sphero-MacroLab-Chromo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/orbotix-sphero-MacroLab-Chromo/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/orbotix-sphero-MacroLab-Chromo/#comments ImageIt's far more than a pricey cat toy, but should you really shell out 130 bucks of a color-changing robotic sphere? Well, if you make it to the video after the break, you might just be buying six. Sphero's latest app pairing adds some pretty spiffy interactive games, that could prompt early adopters to make yet another impulse purchase. MacroLab lets you design programs for your flashy mechanical ball, enabling the device to roll every which way while also shifting speed and color. And the Android version supports multiple Spheros, letting you create a routine for an entire set to follow simultaneously. The second app, Chromo, tests memory and coordination, prompting you to move the ball every which way to match colors displayed on your iOS device. Both apps, while excellent video fodder, are likely to grow old just as quickly as the gadget's initial offering. So, if your wallet's not as big as your curiosity, the promo vids waiting just past the break should entertain you almost as much as a proper Sphero can.

Continue reading Orbotix update proves that six Spheros are better than one (video)

Orbotix update proves that six Spheros are better than one (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappsaraugmented realityAugmentedRealityballChromogamegamesgamingiosMacroLabminipostorbotixOrbotix SpheroOrbotixSpheroprogramprogrammingreviewrobotrobot ballRobotBallroboticsspherotoytoysvideoTue, 03 Apr 2012 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sphero goes modular, spins out for a drive (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/sphero-goes-modular-spins-out-for-a-drive-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/sphero-goes-modular-spins-out-for-a-drive-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/sphero-goes-modular-spins-out-for-a-drive-video/#comments
Sphero's hooked up with a new whip, albeit a retro-fitted one. Skylar, a Junior Developer at Orbotix, modded an old RC car with an Arduino board, H-bridge and a few trackball parts, enabling the remote control ball to serve as its brain. Just in time too -- there's only so much fun you can have getting the little orb stuck behind the filing cabinets. Still, it's certainly a leap beyond purposing it to pull an iPhone-toting chariot.

Sean Buckley contributed to this post.

Sphero goes modular, spins out for a drive (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 02:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidararduinoaugmented realityAugmentedRealityballiosminipostorbotixOrbotix SpheroOrbotixSpheroreviewrobotrobot ballRobotBallroboticssillysparkfunspherosphero carSpheroCartoytoy ballToyBalltoysvideoMon, 19 Mar 2012 02:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel announces augmented reality app, exclusive digital comics at SXSW]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/marvel-announces-augmented-reality-app-exclusive-digital-comics/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/marvel-announces-augmented-reality-app-exclusive-digital-comics/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/marvel-announces-augmented-reality-app-exclusive-digital-comics/#comments Marvel ReEvolution wants to augment your comic books.Not content with simply doling out free digital comics to fans who favor the tangible page, Marvel is now giving readers a new reason to reach for their tablets: augmented reality. Android and iOS devices will be able to look beyond the page using Marvel AR, an Aurasma-powered app slated to launch alongside Avengers vs. X-Men #1 this April. When pointed at a compatible comic, the app will server up creator commentary videos, extra art and interactive 3D models of Earth's greatest heroes.

Don't worry, your standard Marvel Comics app isn't being replaced -- in fact, it's getting a new line of sequential funnybooks called Marvel Infinite Comics. "Writers and artists now have a whole host of new tools at their disposal to redefine the comic book medium," Marvel Comics Editor in Chief Axel Alonso said at SXSW this week, "Current tablets and smartphones, along with comiXology's Guided View technology, allow us to develop new, full length stories for a different medium that are very much truly comics -- but experienced by readers in a way no other major company has ever executed." The digital-exclusive series kicks off with Avengers vs. X-Men #1 Infinite, which incidentally, will be free to folks who pick up the similarly named physical book. Ready for the revolution ReEvolution? Check out the links below for Marvel's official announcement and CNET's hands-on video.

Marvel announces augmented reality app, exclusive digital comics at SXSW originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 01:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid comicsAndroidComicsaugmented realityAugmentedRealitycomiccomic booksComicBookscomicsdigital comicsDigitalComicsfree comicsFreeComicsiosios comicsIosComicsipadiphoneipodMarvel ARmarvel comicsMarvel ReEvolutionMarvelArMarvelComicsMarvelReevolutionReEvolutionSXSWSXSW 2012Sxsw2012tablettabletsMon, 12 Mar 2012 01:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Parrot AR.Drone joins with Epson Moverio BT-100: UAV gets down with HMD (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/parrot-ar-drone-joins-forces-with-epson-moverio-bt-100-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/parrot-ar-drone-joins-forces-with-epson-moverio-bt-100-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/parrot-ar-drone-joins-forces-with-epson-moverio-bt-100-video/#comments Parrot AR.Drone matches forces with Epson Moverio to create augmented reality supergroup (video)Let's say you've explored all the abandoned cathedrals in your hometown and have decimated all comers on the virtual battlefield -- if your interest in the Parrot AR.Drone has begun to wane, then take a gander at this bit of handiwork from Thomas Sohmers and dream of what could be. Essentially, he's taken the popular UAV from Parrot and has combined it with a transparent, head-mounted display that allows one to simultaneously view the AR.Drone and an overlay of its video feed. More than just a set of glasses, the Epson Moverio BT-100 was ideal for the task as it also features a handheld controller that just so happens to run Android. While Sohmers has met with good success in combining the two devices, the product isn't quite ready for mass consumption -- for example, it's said the AR.Drone can only rotate and move vertically at this point. While you'll have to use a bit of your imagination for the heads-up display component, you can find a demonstration of Sohmers' creation in a video after the break.

Continue reading Parrot AR.Drone joins with Epson Moverio BT-100: UAV gets down with HMD (video)

Parrot AR.Drone joins with Epson Moverio BT-100: UAV gets down with HMD (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidar.dronear.pursuitaugmented realityAugmentedRealityavailabledownloaddroneepsonEpson Moverio BT-100EpsonMoverioBt-100gamehelicoptermoverio bt-100MoverioBt-100parrotrcrc helicopterRcHelicopterremote controlRemoteControluavvideoFri, 09 Mar 2012 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony shows off PlayStation Vita's augmented reality chops at GDC, leaves the AR marker cards at home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-augmented-reality-chops-at-gdc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-augmented-reality-chops-at-gdc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/sony-shows-off-playstation-vitas-augmented-reality-chops-at-gdc/#comments

The PlayStation Vita's current augmented reality mini-games may be anchored to a handful of marker cards, but it doesn't have to be that way. Front and center at Sony's GDC booth was "Magnet," a developer tech demo that shows off the next generation handheld's markerless chops. The application maps out the texture and patterns to create its own marker, which would allow developers to create more natural AR experiences that won't burden players with the hassle of carrying around marker cards. Sony says the tech demo won't be evolving into a full game, but hopes it will inspire developers to build something new and exciting for the handheld. Although staff on hand couldn't say for sure that this is an off-shoot of Sony's SmartAR technology, we think it looks awfully familiar.

Sony shows off PlayStation Vita's augmented reality chops at GDC, leaves the AR marker cards at home originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 06:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>araugmented realityAugmentedRealitygamegame developers conferenceGameDevelopersConferencegaminggdcgdc 2012Gdc2012interactioninteractiveplaystation vitaPlaystationVitasmart arSmartArsonysony playstationsony smartarSonyPlaystationSonySmartarvideovitaVita arVitaArFri, 09 Mar 2012 06:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Lumus' OE-31 optical engine turns motorcycle helmets, other eyewear into wearable displays]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/lumus-oe-31-optical-engine-turns-motorcycle-helmets-other-eyew/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/lumus-oe-31-optical-engine-turns-motorcycle-helmets-other-eyew/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/lumus-oe-31-optical-engine-turns-motorcycle-helmets-other-eyew/#comments
After showing off a duo of wearable, see-through displays at CES, Lumus is back with a second optical engine -- one that could be used in any style of frames, from prescription glasses to ski goggles. Available in binocular and monocular configurations, the tiny OE-31 sensor weighs just 10 grams (.35 ounces), allowing it to accommodate a variety of form factors besides your run-of-the mill (and quite dorky-looking) 3D glasses. As always, Lumus' hook is its ability to combine head up content, augmented reality and see-through displays, though this time around the sensor allows for a 19-degree field of view and a full-color, 640 x 360 picture. Though that's not as impressive as the 720p, 3D-capable frames on offer at CES, the company argues it should be adequate for reading text, particularly since the viewing experience will be comparable to staring at a 40-inch screen from 10 feet away. No word, of course, on what products might incorporate these discreet head up displays, though maybe, just maybe, we'll catch a demo in Barcelona. For now, we've got photos below along with a handful of demo videos after the break.

Gallery: Lumus OE-31 optical engine

Continue reading Lumus' OE-31 optical engine turns motorcycle helmets, other eyewear into wearable displays

Lumus' OE-31 optical engine turns motorcycle helmets, other eyewear into wearable displays originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitydisplaydisplayshead upHead Up Displayheads up displayheads up displaysHeadsUpDisplayHeadsUpDisplaysHeadUpHeadUpDisplayLumusLumus OE-31LumusOe-31mobile world congress 2012MobileWorldCongress2012OE-31optical engineOpticalEnginevideowearablewearable displaywearable displaysWearableDisplayWearableDisplayswearablesThu, 23 Feb 2012 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: PlayStation Vita's AR game trio]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/video-playstation-vitas-ar-game-trio/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/video-playstation-vitas-ar-game-trio/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/video-playstation-vitas-ar-game-trio/#comments With the retail launch of the Vita hardware comes the arrival of three augmented reality games, using a set of six cards that look an awful lot like the ESP test cards Dr. Venkman used in Ghostbusters. I downloaded them all from the PlayStation Store today, carefully set up a camera between my face and Vita (keeping the table in view) and demonstrated all three.

Of the three, Fireworks is the definite standout. And by "standout" I mean "one I could foresee playing a second time."

[Music: "Shanghai Moon" by USK]

Video: PlayStation Vita's AR game trio originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>araugmented realityAugmentedRealitygamesgamingplaystationplaystation vitaPlaystationVitaps vitaPsVitasonyvideovitaWed, 22 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Hasbro reinvents Lazer Tag for the smartphone generation, lets you live out your Doom-fueled fantasies]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/hasbro-reinvents-lazer-tag-for-the-smartphone-generation/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/hasbro-reinvents-lazer-tag-for-the-smartphone-generation/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/hasbro-reinvents-lazer-tag-for-the-smartphone-generation/#comments Hasbro NERF Lazer TagXappr and appBlaster are fine weaponizers for your smartphone, provided you don't care to share your violent tendencies with your friends. Thankfully, Hasbro is bridging the gap between new-school AR shooter and that teenage classic -- laser tag. The NERF Lazer Tag system is getting an update for 2012 that lets you pair your blaster with an iPhone or iPod touch. The top of the plastic guns now sport a slot for your iDevice which, when loaded with the Lazer Tag app, provides you with an augmented HUD view. While you can play against purely virtual opponents, the real fun is in using to track your battles with fleshy foes. The app will display your gear and power level, and update your progress on a global Lazer Tag leaderboard. As you play, new attacks and gear will be unlocked for you to enhance your gaming experience. The app will even actually show your blasts' trajectory, letting you see exactly where you shot your former friend. The 2012 edition of Lazer Tag will hit shelves on August 1st with individual blasters costing $40 and sets of two $70. Check out the PR and a screen shot of the app after the break.

Continue reading Hasbro reinvents Lazer Tag for the smartphone generation, lets you live out your Doom-fueled fantasies

Hasbro reinvents Lazer Tag for the smartphone generation, lets you live out your Doom-fueled fantasies originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappleappsaraugmented realityAugmentedRealityhasbrohasbro nerf lazer tagHasbroNerfLazerTagiosiphoneipod touchIpodTouchlaser tagLaserTaglazer tagLazerTagmobilepostcrossnerfnerf lazer tagNerfLazerTagtoytoy fair 2012toyfair 2012Toyfair2012toysTue, 07 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patent sketches reveal Wii U-esque controller system, keeps it vague]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/sony-patent-sketches-reveal-wii-u-esque-controller-system-keeps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/sony-patent-sketches-reveal-wii-u-esque-controller-system-keeps/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/06/sony-patent-sketches-reveal-wii-u-esque-controller-system-keeps/#comments Sony patent sketches reveal Wii U-esque controller system, keeps it vague

While Nintendo is darn proud of its attempts to differentiate itself from other console manufacturers with its unusual hardware choices, it looks like Sony also had plenty of touchscreen-toting, TV-connected ideas way back in 2010. These patent sketches explain a handheld device that bares a foggy resemblance to Nintendo's incoming Wii U. The "position-dependent gaming, 3-D controller, and handheld as a remote," would act as the "input to a video game" -- or controller, as we technical types like to call it -- adding in some augmented reality functionality as an overlay to camera input on the device. The PS Vita is already capable of doing most of what's posited above, including the ability to hook up to its older (bigger) brother, the PS3 -- possibly that anonymous box you can see above. If such a mystery device device does appear, at least it looks like Sony's got its bases covered, again.

Sony patent sketches reveal Wii U-esque controller system, keeps it vague originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitygamingnintendopatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationps vitaPsVitasonytouchscreenwii uWiiUMon, 06 Feb 2012 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Taking next-gen augmented reality for an ARM-powered walk around the block]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/next-gen-augmented-reality-from-arm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/next-gen-augmented-reality-from-arm/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/next-gen-augmented-reality-from-arm/#comments We know what you're thinking, because we initially thought it too, but this isn't your average AR. With the help of chip designer ARM, a number of developers are building a new type of augmented reality that is altogether more powerful than the usual sprite-on-a-surface routine. Instead of requiring well-lit, artificial and often indoor surfaces and markers, this new technology sucks every ounce of juice from a smartphone's processor in order to recognize, track and augment real-world 3D objects like people and buildings. It's still at an early stage and far from being practical, but the exclusive videos after the break ought to prove that this approach has potential. In fact, it's probably what augmented reality ought to have been in the first place. Read on for more.

Continue reading Taking next-gen augmented reality for an ARM-powered walk around the block

Taking next-gen augmented reality for an ARM-powered walk around the block originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARARMaugmented cityaugmented realityAugmentedCityAugmentedRealitycortex a9cortex-a9CortexA9diamondiamond ringDiamondRingEON SkyEonSkyexclusiveExynosface recognitionFaceRecognitionGPUhands-onHolitionMaliMali 400mali t604Mali400MaliT604metaiomobilemobile processormobilepostcrossMobileProcessorolaworksprocessorsamsung exynosSamsungExynostatlervideoFri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami level]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/ar-goggles-take-crime-scene-technology-to-csi-miami-level/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/ar-goggles-take-crime-scene-technology-to-csi-miami-level/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/31/ar-goggles-take-crime-scene-technology-to-csi-miami-level/#comments AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami levelDutch researchers are looking to catapult crime scene investigation into the 21st century through the use of augmented reality (AR). The prototype system, designed by the Delft University of Technology, employs a pair of AR goggles, two head-mounted cameras and a portable laptop rig to allow investigators to build virtual crime scenes by tagging evidence and placing objects they are viewing. After mapping an area, additional law enforcement personnel can review the investigator's work and request additional information -- asking the CSI to define or place additional objects. Researchers hope that the 3D renders will be used as court-admissible evidence in the near future; the technology is set to be tried on a real Dutch crime scene later this year. We can see it now: Lieutenant Horatio Caine whips off his shades and tosses on a pair of (equally stylish) crime-fighting goggles... YEAAAAAAAAH!

AR goggles take crime scene technology to CSI: Miami level originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DARAugmentedAugmented RealityAugmentedRealitycrimecrime sceneCrimeSceneCSIDelft University of TechnologyDelftUniversityOfTechnologydisplaydisplaysimaginglaw enforcementLawEnforcementmodelNetherlandspoliceRealityscenevideowearablesTue, 31 Jan 2012 15:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Augmented reality makes Thundercats packaging way cooler than the toys themselves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/augmented-reality-thundercats/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/augmented-reality-thundercats/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/augmented-reality-thundercats/#comments What happens when the toy packaging becomes more exciting than the toy itself? It's an interesting experiment that's now seeing the light of day courtesy of Bandai's new Thundercats and Ben 10 toys, which come to life through a smartphone screen via Aurasma's augmented reality. The company promises that the packages help kids "examine every part of the toy before purchase." That's important. And hey, so's setting them up for a lifetime of disappointment. Video after the break.

Continue reading Augmented reality makes Thundercats packaging way cooler than the toys themselves

Augmented reality makes Thundercats packaging way cooler than the toys themselves originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitybandaiben 10Ben10minipostpackagepackagingthundercatstoytoysvideoTue, 24 Jan 2012 19:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers turn your smartphone into a virtual projector]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/researchers-turn-your-smartphone-into-a-virtual-projector/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/researchers-turn-your-smartphone-into-a-virtual-projector/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/22/researchers-turn-your-smartphone-into-a-virtual-projector/#comments Pico projectors are an easy way to increase the screen real estate of your mobile phone, but what if you'd rather not carry one around in your pocket or bulk up your phone's slim profile with a slip on solution? Well, a team of intrepid researchers may have come up with an elegant solution to your problem that can work with any smartphone and external display: virtual projection. The system works by using a central server that constantly takes screenshots of the external display and compares them with the images from the phone's camera to track its location. It then replicates what's on the handset's screen, while allowing you to add multiple image windows and position and rotate them as you see fit. Additionally, multiple users can collaborate and virtually project pictures or videos onscreen at the same time. Intrigued? See it in action for yourself in the video after the break.

Continue reading Researchers turn your smartphone into a virtual projector

Researchers turn your smartphone into a virtual projector originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitypico projectorpico projectorsPicoProjectorPicoProjectorsresearchsmartphonevideovirtual projectionvirtual projectorVirtualProjectionVirtualProjectorSun, 22 Jan 2012 12:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Aurasma Virtual Browser and virtual world hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/aurasma-virtual-browser-and-virtual-world-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/aurasma-virtual-browser-and-virtual-world-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/aurasma-virtual-browser-and-virtual-world-hands-on/#comments
Watching Aurasma in action is very impressive, it is tech that looks like magic. Aurasma is software that picks out objects, shapes, symbols -- which are called triggers -- with its Virtual Browser and understands what they are. Once the trigger is recognized, relevant content gets pushed across to the user using enhanced reality. For example, we have a look at a $20 bill during our demo and the bill in the phone display starts to deconstruct ending in some pretty serious rah rah sis boom bah. Aurasma is getting traction in advertising and we can only see this growing, it is really addictive fun. Users can grab the app free on either iOS or Android -- another mobile platform is coming with a name that doesn't rhyme with BlackBerry -- and get playing and creating. Aurasma also has a pro version -- also free -- with much more serious development tours for folks that really want to stretch its boundaries. Aurasma has been around for a while now but this is the first chance we've had a demo and we were very impressed. Click through to see money do crazy things and a Harry Potter poster come to life.

Continue reading Aurasma Virtual Browser and virtual world hands-on

Aurasma Virtual Browser and virtual world hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 02:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealityaurasmacesces 2012Ces2012hands-onvideovirtual relaityVirtualRelaityWed, 11 Jan 2012 02:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Sensics head-tracking 3D Smart goggles hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/sensics-head-tracking-3d-goggles-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/sensics-head-tracking-3d-goggles-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/sensics-head-tracking-3d-goggles-hands-on-video/#comments When we first caught wind of Sensic's head-tracking 3D Smart goggles a few days ago, we couldn't help but think of it as a Sony HMZ-T1 on Android-flavored steroids. We've just spent some time with the prototype here on the show floor playing a virtual demo that had us smashing buildings in a virtual world -- notably running entirely on the headset, thanks (in part) to its 1.2GHZ dual-core CPU. If you can't tell from the picture, the headset is absolutely massive. In-hand it's quiet hefty, but once it engulfed our noggin, we found that it was actually quiet well-balanced and comfortable, to the point that we almost forget that it was on our head -- almost. Notably, this proto is a "one size fits all" type deal rght now, so we did have to wrap a circle-scarf around our head to keep its 1280 x 1024 screens within our eyes view. Thankfully, our horn-rimmed glasses did fit inside with no issue.

So, what's it like? An array of cameras on it's face scan the environment to react to your heads position and any movement you make. We were able to spin, tilt, walk around and even jump, with the virtual world on screen following suite -- all while looking like a confused and lost puppy to anyone passing by. We're told video refreshes at 60hz, but sadly, we were faced with stuttery visuals in our use. The unit is also capable of tracking hand movements, but we can't say we were able to make use of the privilege -- instead, a controller made up for the interim. Considering that Sensic's head-tracking 3D goggles do all of the above in a completely self-contained fashion, we can't help but think that there's lots of potential for the tech. The question remains, however, as to whether the experience and the hardware can be smoothed to bring the Minority Report-style of AR closer to a retail reality. Head on past the break for a video of us trying out Sensic's headset for ourselves-- trust us, you're in for a treat.

Gallery: Sensics head-tracking 3D goggles hands-on

Continue reading Sensics head-tracking 3D Smart goggles hands-on (video)

Sensics head-tracking 3D Smart goggles hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1280x1024360 degree360Degree3d3d goggles3d headset3dGoggles3dHeadset720pandroidaraugmented realityAugmentedRealitycesces 2012Ces2012head mounted displayhead trackinghead-mounted displayHead-mountedDisplayHeadMountedHeadMountedDisplayHeadTrackinglibsensicsnataliaoledoled displayOledDisplaysagasensicssensics nataliaSensicsNataliasmartgogglesvideoTue, 10 Jan 2012 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Sensics Natalia head-tracking 3D goggles work alone or with PCs, consoles and phones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/sensics-natalia-head-tracking-3d-goggles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/sensics-natalia-head-tracking-3d-goggles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/sensics-natalia-head-tracking-3d-goggles/#comments Well, it looks like Sensics is going to give Sony some competition in the high-end, head-mounted display arena with a new 3D head-mounted display. Like the HMZ-T1, Sensics' Natalia headset has dual OLED screens and can connect to consoles, PCs, or phones to let you see your favorite movies and games in 3D. Unlike the Sony, Natalia sports higher-res 1280 x 1024 screens, and isn't simply a display: it has a 1.2GHZ dual-core CPU and 1GB of memory, an SD card slot, WiFi, Bluetooth, and runs Android 4.0. That means that it can be used as a standalone device, and the company's libSensics app programming interface gives devs the tools needed to create software for the new platform. Oh, and did we mention that Sensics' headset does 360-degree head tracking, and can track your hands to allow for immersive AR user experiences (think Minority Report). The final feather in her cap? Though Natalia can run on DC power, she also has hot-swappable batteries so you aren't tethered to an outlet. Sensics isn't telling how much this nifty bit of kit will cost, but the company's aiming for a late 2012 release and will be showing the headset off at CES next week -- where we'll be getting hands on with it and will let you know how well (and if) it works.

Continue reading Sensics Natalia head-tracking 3D goggles work alone or with PCs, consoles and phones

Sensics Natalia head-tracking 3D goggles work alone or with PCs, consoles and phones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1280x1024360 degree360Degree3d3d goggles3d headset3dGoggles3dHeadset720pandroidaraugmented realityAugmentedRealitycesces 2012Ces2012head mounted displayhead trackinghead-mounted displayHead-mountedDisplayHeadMountedDisplayHeadTrackinglibsensicsnataliaoledoled displayOledDisplaysagasensicssensics nataliaSensicsNataliasmartgogglesvideoThu, 05 Jan 2012 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[ESPN's bowl coverage swaps out the telestrator for augmented reality GameView]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/espns-bowl-coverage-swaps-out-the-telestrator-for-augmented-rea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/espns-bowl-coverage-swaps-out-the-telestrator-for-augmented-rea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/29/espns-bowl-coverage-swaps-out-the-telestrator-for-augmented-rea/#comments We dug into ESPN's use of the Xbox 360 and EA Sports games to power its Virtual Playbook segments last year, but in preparation for this round of BCS bowl games it's upgraded the system with a bit of augmented reality. The new GameView system uses a tabletop 70-inch touchscreen LCD, a copy of NCAA Football '12 and four dedicated workstations to blend everything together and create a simulation for viewers to see the analysts move virtual players around the field. It should at least be more interesting than CNN's previous election coverage implementation, although we're mostly wondering when a combo of Kinect, Surface and old school electronic football will bring the experience directly to our living rooms to play around with. Check out the gallery for a few more screens and expect to see this implemented more during the upcoming big time bowl games -- no, there's no secret code Desmond Howard can input to get a national championship game between two college football teams that haven't already played each other, we asked.

Gallery: ESPN GameView Augmented Reality

Continue reading ESPN's bowl coverage swaps out the telestrator for augmented reality GameView

ESPN's bowl coverage swaps out the telestrator for augmented reality GameView originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>araugmented realityAugmentedRealitybcsbcs bowlBcsBowlbowl gameBowlGamecollege footballCollegeFootballcoverageeaea sportsEaSportsespngameviewhdpostcrosshdpostminincaa football 12NcaaFootball12sportstouchscreenThu, 29 Dec 2011 23:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Orbotix Sphero review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/orbotix-sphero-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/orbotix-sphero-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/19/orbotix-sphero-review/#comments It's been just over a year since we first heard about Orbotix's little smartphone-controlled cue ball named Sphero, and since that time, we've seen a couple of pre-production units strut their stuff. Apparently, we weren't the only folks left intrigued -- there were so many folks wanting one that production capacity couldn't meet demand. So, while the company can't deliver every pre-ordered orb by its initial December delivery date, the first few Spheros are going out today and will be in the hands of some owners by the end of the week. Whether you're waiting for yours to arrive or are debating whether to get in on the robotic ball action, join us after the break to find out if it's a techno toy worth $130 of your hard-earned cash.

Gallery: Sphero hardware

Continue reading Orbotix Sphero review

Orbotix Sphero review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidaraugmented realityAugmentedRealityballiosorbotixOrbotix SpheroOrbotixSpheroreviewrobotrobot ballRobotBallroboticsspherotoytoysvideoMon, 19 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung teases flexible, transparent display in concept video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-teases-flexible-transparent-display-in-concept-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-teases-flexible-transparent-display-in-concept-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-teases-flexible-transparent-display-in-concept-video/#comments
Samsung's flexible display technology isn't slated to hit the market until 2012, but the Korean manufacturer is already giving us a glimpse of how it may transform our lives, with a freshly released concept video. Yes, it's just a concept ad, and a relatively brief one at that, but it still paints a pretty mouth-watering portrait -- one full of transparent, flexible screens, smartphone-tablet hybrids, and augmented reality. Check it out for yourself, after the break.

Continue reading Samsung teases flexible, transparent display in concept video

Samsung teases flexible, transparent display in concept video originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadvertisementAMOLEDARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitycommercialconceptconcept videoConceptVideoflexible displayFlexibleDisplayproductionsamsungsmartphonetabletteaseteaservideoMon, 05 Dec 2011 09:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Autonomy CEO talks about HP's future, promises 'really stunning technology']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/autonomy-ceo-talks-about-hps-future-promises-really-stunning/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/autonomy-ceo-talks-about-hps-future-promises-really-stunning/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/autonomy-ceo-talks-about-hps-future-promises-really-stunning/#comments New details are emerging today about HP's plans for Autonomy, nearly two months after Whitman & Co. purchased the software-maker for a cool $10.4 billion. In an interview with ZDNet UK, Autonomy chief executive Mike Lynch said his company's search, data analysis and AR technologies will be integrated within a range of HP products, including its printers, servers and storage unit, and its consumer-focused Personal Systems Group, which handles phones, tablets and PCs. "There is a lot of work going on between the different business units at HP," Lynch explained. "Servers and storage is obviously key [but with the] Personal Systems Group stuff is going to come that was only available for very large companies." He went on to say that Autonomy's data analysis artillery will be linked up to HP's public cloud service, and that both companies have developed some "really stunning technology" for printers. The exec didn't offer many details beyond that, but he did promise that more information would be released "very shortly."

Autonomy CEO talks about HP's future, promises 'really stunning technology' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARaugmented realityAugmentedRealityautonomybusinesscloudcloud computingCloudComputingdata analysisDataAnalysisenterprisefinancehewlett-packardhpindustrymeg whitmanMegWhitmanMike LynchMikeLynchmoneypersonal systems groupPersonalSystemsGroupprinterpublic cloudPublicCloudsearchserverstorageWed, 30 Nov 2011 04:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/vuzix-tac-eye-lt-offers-a-clip-on-hud-for-rugged-wannabe-cyborg/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/vuzix-tac-eye-lt-offers-a-clip-on-hud-for-rugged-wannabe-cyborg/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/vuzix-tac-eye-lt-offers-a-clip-on-hud-for-rugged-wannabe-cyborg/#comments Vuzix Tac-Eye LT Does a pair of screens placed over your eyes seem like overkill? Well, AR enthusiasts, Vuzix has heard your calls and has introduced the Tac-Eye LT -- a transparent monocular AMOLED display that only puts info in front of one of your peepers. Unlike some of the company's other head-mounted displays, the Tac-Eye isn't aimed at personal entertainment. Instead, Vuzix envisions it being used as a HUD in rugged environments, offering alerts, data and video feeds. The unit comes mounted on a pair of Oakley specs (of course) but it can easily be clipped to a pair of standard safety glasses. The 800 x 600 see-through display comes in three different configurations: VGA-in, video-in or both. The Tac-Eye LT is available throughout Europe now... at least according to the PR. We couldn't find them for sale anywhere, nor could we track down pricing info. Head on after the break for the full release and a few more technical details.

Continue reading Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs

Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMOLEDARaugmented realityAugmentedRealityhead-mounted displayHead-mountedDisplayHUDmonoculartac-eyetac-eye ltTac-eyeLtvuzixvuzix tac-eye ltVuzixTac-eyeLtTue, 29 Nov 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Route 66 Maps + Navigation now available for Android users, augmented realists]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/25/route-66-maps-navigation-now-available-for-android-users-augm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/25/route-66-maps-navigation-now-available-for-android-users-augm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/25/route-66-maps-navigation-now-available-for-android-users-augm/#comments
It's been a long and winding road, but Route 66 Maps + Navigation has finally arrived on the Android Market, no less than eight months after launching for iOS. Available on handsets and tablets running Android 2.0 or above, this app brings Route 66's "Follow Me" augmented reality navigation to your windshield, superimposing upon your surroundings an animated lead car to act as your guide. It's available on a free, 30-day trial at the source link below -- after that, you'll have to shell out $65 for a lifetime worldwide license, or $40 for a US license. Steer past the break for more information, in the full press release.

Continue reading Route 66 Maps + Navigation now available for Android users, augmented realists

Route 66 Maps + Navigation now available for Android users, augmented realists originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid marketAndroidMarketappapplicationARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitycellphonedirectionsdrivingfollow meFollowMehandsetmapminipostmobilepostcrossnavigationphoneroute 66route 66 maps + navigationRoute66Route66Maps+NavigationsmartphonesoftwaretablettransportFri, 25 Nov 2011 15:35:00 EST