Engadget

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

Brian Heater — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:41:00 EST

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.

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Samsung patents using a phone as a pointer while wearing a head-mounted display

Terrence O'Brien — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:54:00 EST

We're not sure how many head-mounted displays you've had your follicles on, but generally the answer around the Engadget compound is, "quite a few." If you've ever played with such a wearable gadget though, you'd know that head-tracking, while intuitive, isn't always the most accurate way to control a device. Samsung has patented an alternative method that lets you keep wearing those silly goggles, but uses your cellphone almost like a gyroscopic mouse to pilot a pointer. Rather than use a gyroscope or accelerometer (both of which are present in many modern smartphones), Samsung's patent turns to the camera -- a feature found in even the lowliest dumbphone. The primarily software-based solution would require that both the phone's sensor and the display have an agreed upon background marker to help line up the motions. If you're the type that loves to dig through the minutiae of patents there's something seriously wrong with you, but you'll find what you're looking for at the source.

Samsung patents using a phone as a pointer while wearing a head-mounted display originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zeiss Cinemizer OLED with head-tracking hands-on (video)

Zach Honig — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:06:00 EST

The Carl Zeiss Cinemizer OLED has been a long time in the making -- we first heard about the video glasses at Macworld in 2008 -- but the company has yet to push the head-mounted display past the prototype phase. We stumbled upon Zeiss' booth here at CeBIT, where we found a version of the glasses that look mighty similar to the mock-up we saw in marketing materials from 2010, but are now equipped with a pair of head-tracking modules to expand the yet-to-be released marvel's practicality. With head-tracking now on board, the Cinemizer can theoretically appeal to gamers, architects, even educators, who can use the glasses in the classroom.

We took a look at an Inreal CAD app demo that lets the wearer navigate a yet-unbuilt house, walking through virtual rooms (a joystick is used for forward motion, so you won't be accidentally walking into physical walls) as you judge paint colors, furniture placement and try to convince your significant other that there really is room for a 65-inch HDTV. The tracking modules are located behind the ear rests on each side of the OLED glasses, which have seen a slight boost in resolution since we last heard about them, jumping from VGA to 870 x 500 pixels in each OLED panel. Tracking was responsive and accurate -- the experience of walking around a room felt almost lifelike. What's even more exciting than the device's performance is that we may finally see these hit stores in 2012, with a tentative summer ship date. And, while still a pricey addition to your display collection, the Cinemizer lands on the inexpensive end of the Zeiss product scale, ringing up at €649 (about $850), plus another €100 for the tracking hardware. Jump past the break to see it in action.

Gallery: Zeiss Cinemizer OLED with head-tracking hands-on

Continue reading Zeiss Cinemizer OLED with head-tracking hands-on (video)

Zeiss Cinemizer OLED with head-tracking hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

Joe Pollicino — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:31:00 EST

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.

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

Michael Gorman — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:38:00 EST

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.

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Head-mounted AR trainer is another Star Trek prop come to life (video)

Daniel Cooper — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:46:00 EST

Those of you familiar with the Dominion headsets from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine will probably guess exactly what this wearable AR system does from the picture alone. Japan's institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology is putting the finishing touches on a device to help newbies through complex and dangerous jobs. A head-mounted GoPro Hero 2 HD relays a picture back to an expert, who directs the action while wearing colored gloves. Using color separation, just the hand movements are sent back to the user, processed by a Toughbook in a backpack and overlaid onto the Shimadzu Data Glass HUD. There's nothing special about the tech, but that's what makes it so likely we'll see this making the leap to reality -- more so, because all of the components are off-the-shelf. The only issue is with the unit's software calibration, which takes far too long, but AIST hopes to remedy this over time. Just be careful if you see a backseat driver with blue gloves -- they could make your life miserable.

Continue reading Head-mounted AR trainer is another Star Trek prop come to life (video)

Head-mounted AR trainer is another Star Trek prop come to life (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Epson's Moverio BT-100 brings some transparency and 3D to head-mounted displays

Michael Gorman — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:39:00 EST

Head-mounted displays come in all kinds of flavors, from Dragonball Z-style scouters with transparent displays, to those that bring personal 3D viewing in a package that fits right in on the Game Grid. Epson, however, has combined those to features for the first time with its Moverio BT-100. Sporting classic blue-blocker looks, these shades have dual transparent lenses with 960 × 540 qHD resolution bringing you video in three dee, while audio is doled out by built-in earbuds with Dolby Mobile technology. Content is accessed via a Froyo-powered control unit equipped with 802.11b/g/n WiFi and 1GB of internal memory, plus there's an SD card slot (4GB card included) for storing media. Navigation and control comes courtesy of the controller's touch-sensitive trackpad and dedicated Android buttons, a 2D/3D toggle switch, and d-pad. The BT-100 will be available in Japan come November 25th for ¥59,980 ($771 US), but those interested in importing one can get all the device's juicy details at the Source links below.

Epson's Moverio BT-100 brings some transparency and 3D to head-mounted displays originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NEC's Tele Scouter head-mounted display makes it really hard to not look evil

Amar Toor — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:39:00 EST

Case in point: the guy on the right. Sure, he's probably a mild-mannered, law-abiding citizen, but with NEC's Tele Scouter strapped to his spectacles, he looks just a wee bit sinister, doesn't he? The system he's wearing consists of a paperback-sized computer powered by an ARM 500MHz CPU and an AirScouter display mounted atop a pair of glasses. The display, manufactured by Brother, projects images upon the naked eye, but NEC insists that it won't completely block a user's field of vision. To the viewer, in fact, these projections appear as if they were displayed on a 16-inch, 800 x 600 screen standing one meter away. According to NEC, the idea is to allow employees to view manuals or other important documents while working with their hands, though that kind of multi-task wizardry certainly won't come for cheap. The Tele Scouter will begin shipping on December 26th, with the device priced at ¥400,000 (about $5,200) and the software sitting at ¥1.9 million (around $25,000).

NEC's Tele Scouter head-mounted display makes it really hard to not look evil originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony announces a 4K projector for the home, prices HMZ-T1 3D head mounted display in the US

Richard Lawler — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:47:00 EST

There's a new king atop Sony's line of ES projectors: the VPL-VW1000ES. Presented at CEDIA this afternoon, it bypasses all the beamers Sony's delivered for home use so far -- including the recent VPL-HW30AES and VPL-VW95ES models -- by featuring a stunning 4K resolution, four times that of standard HD projectors based on an all new SXRD panel. Scheduled to go on sale this December it also claims a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness that allows it to project on screens of sizes up to 200-inches. Whether or not you can scrape together the ducats for a 4K projector this Christmas, there are other options for home theater nuts in the form of two new receivers for the ES line that will also be available. The STR-DA5700ES and STR-DA3700ES will ship in November but more than their hardware specs, they feature a new onscreen UI that's supposed to be easier to use. The only device at the presentation with a pricetag was the HMZ-T1 3D viewer we tried out at IFA last week, which has been announced for the US in November with a price "around" $799. Expect more in person pics in a moment, meanwhile the press releases after the break have all the information currently available.

Update: Now with more pictures. During the presentation Sony showed a 4K clip from its upcoming Spiderman flick on a VPL-VW1000ES that looked every bit as beautiful as you might imagine. Also in the gallery is a shot of the new "activity based UI" for the receivers that looks at least something like the graphical upgrade the XMB has always needed. You'll also spy one more device, the funky new SA-NS500 Network Speaker. It's a portable sound blaster with 6 hours of battery life and AirPlay compatibility for $399, shipping in November.

Gallery: Sony CEDIA 2011 presentation

Continue reading Sony announces a 4K projector for the home, prices HMZ-T1 3D head mounted display in the US

Sony announces a 4K projector for the home, prices HMZ-T1 3D head mounted display in the US originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony London Studio chief talks 3D lessons, promises VR headsets

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:07:00 EST

Haven't settled in to 3D PS3 gaming just yet? Too bad because Sony's ready to leapfrog that industry buzzword with another once-vaunted, immersive tech of yore -- virtual reality. Announced ahead of Sony London Studio chief Mick Hocking's Develop conference "3D post-mortem speech," comes word the Japanese electronics giant is underway with R&D testing for a head mounted display. Shown off at CES earlier this year, the unit incorporates twin-OLED screens that put you closer to the game, fried eyeballs and all. If any of this sounds familiar, that's because it's all very 1995. Still, Hocking seems pretty optimistic about the company's lessons learned dipping its toes into three-dimensional waters, and has even created a so-called "3D 10 Commandments" to ensure quality product output. Hit the source below for the UK division head's full 3D musings.

Sony London Studio chief talks 3D lessons, promises VR headsets originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Crescent's Immersive Digital Entertainment VR: it's like a Virtual Boy that you wear

Darren Murph — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:03:00 EST

From what we've gathered in the video just below the break, the graphical capabilities aren't terribly impressive on Crescent's Immersive Digital Entertainment VR system, but really -- who cares? It's a motion gaming solution... that you wear. On your head. When placed in the proper scenario, it gives gamers a full 360 degree space to interact in, with an array of HD motion capture cameras making the virtual reality that much less virtual (and in turn, that much more reality). Hard to say if this thing will ever have a life in the commercial realm, but yeah, we'd buy one.

Continue reading Crescent's Immersive Digital Entertainment VR: it's like a Virtual Boy that you wear

Crescent's Immersive Digital Entertainment VR: it's like a Virtual Boy that you wear originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eye-tracking microdisplay delivers Terminator vision, distracts joggers

Terrence O'Brien — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:47:00 EST

The folks at Fraunhofer IPMS have done it! After years of tireless research and promises of Borg-like eyewear, the group has delivered a prototype of the world's first bidirectional, eye-tracking OLED microdisplay (got all that?) at SID 2011. The rig is much like a monocle, except with a transparent OLED display inside, which overlays digital information on top of the reflected light that usually hits your eyeballs. What's more, there are integrated photodetectors inside and special software to monitor the direction of your gaze, allowing you to interact with your newfound augmented reality using only the flick of an eyeball. Fraunhofer foresees joggers taking in movies while out for a run, which sounds more than just a little dangerous. We, on the other hand, envision a world in which the first thing anyone does upon meeting someone new is discreetly check their relationship status on Facebook -- finally fulfilling the social network's full creep potential. One more pic and the poorly translated PR after the break.

Continue reading Eye-tracking microdisplay delivers Terminator vision, distracts joggers

Eye-tracking microdisplay delivers Terminator vision, distracts joggers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony's 3D head-mounted display prototype face-on

Nilay Patel — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:13:00 EST

Sony went seriously 3D-crazy at CES this year, and in addition to the slew of shipping 3D products, the company is showing off some futuristic prototypes -- including this 3D head-mounted display that features a 720p OLED display for each eye, simulated 5.1 surround audio, and super-slick blue LED piping. No price, no availability, and no practical functionality since there's no way to keep the thing on your face without your hands, but c'mon -- you know you want one. Video after the break.

Gallery: Sony's 3D head-mounted display prototype face-on

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Sony's 3D head-mounted display prototype face-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Recon-Zeal Transcend goggles now shipping, GPS and head-mounted display included

Darren Murph — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:19:00 EST

Don't you just love it when a plan comes together? If you'll recall, we heard that Recon Instruments was fixing to up-end the winter sports goggle market in February of this year, with an optimistic-at-the-time ship date of October 2010. Lo and behold, the outfit has managed to nail its estimate, and the planet's first GPS-enabled goggles are now available to highfalutin' skiers and snowboarders. At least initially, the company will be rolling out a limited set, with two models to choose from: the $499 Transcend SPPX is fitted with an SPPX polarized and photochromic lens, while the $399 Transcend SPX features an SPX polarized lens. Aside from the fact that these probably cost less than those ho hum Oakleys in the ski shop, they're equipped with a Zeal Optics' frame design with a micro LCD display, which appears to hang approximately six feet in front of the user. That head-mounted display provides real-time feedback to the wearer, including speed, latitude / longitude, altitude, vertical distance traveled, total distance traveled, a chrono / stopwatch mode, a run-counter, temperature and time. Yeah, wow. You can bet we'll be trying to snag a set for review when we do our best impression of "hitting the slopes" post-CES.

Gallery: Recon-Zeal Transcend goggles

Continue reading Recon-Zeal Transcend goggles now shipping, GPS and head-mounted display included

Recon-Zeal Transcend goggles now shipping, GPS and head-mounted display included originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zeal Optics bringing GPS, sensor-laden Transcend ski goggles to market

Darren Murph — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:37:00 EST

Remember those mind-melting Recon Instruments goggles that we caught wind of late last year? Admit it -- you never, ever expected those things to actually make it to market. Despite your pessimism, it seems as if those very specs are indeed making a beeline to the consumer realm, with Zeal Optics jumping in, working a bit of magic and relabeling 'em Transcend. Deemed the planet's first GPS and sensor-laden ski goggles, these things are purportedly capable of logging speed, altitude, temperature and time details, and the side-mounted toggle switches will enable you to view said data in real time (or not, if you're paying attention to the 50 foot drop ahead of you). Peek the read link for further details on the $350+ wearables (demoed after the break), and get ready to hit the slopes with a whole new mindset this October.

[Thanks, Christopher]

Continue reading Zeal Optics bringing GPS, sensor-laden Transcend ski goggles to market

Filed under: GPS, Wearables

Zeal Optics bringing GPS, sensor-laden Transcend ski goggles to market originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Myvu's Crystal EV is 30 percent more Crystal, 0 percent less ugly

Darren Murph — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:11:00 EST

We know, we know -- we're a little harsh on these so-called "personal media viewers," but really, when's the last time you saw someone you would actually speak to wearing these in public? Precisely. For the introverts and social outcasts who just couldn't care less about public perception, Myvu is introducing its very latest in video eyewear: the Crystal EV. Sporting the same SolidOptix technology as the original Crystal, these buggers boast a 64-inch equivalent screen size, which amounts to a 30 percent uptick over the originals. Curiously enough, Myvu asserts that these are available to purchase right now, but it completely failed to dish out a price. Bollocks.

[Via Coolest Gadgets]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Myvu's Crystal EV is 30 percent more Crystal, 0 percent less ugly originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Ross Miller — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST

We know your pain, Vuzix users. You hop on the subway just trying to enjoy a little in-your-face action before the workday begins, and within minutes the accusations and stereotypes start flying. "Look, it's Geordi La Forge!" "LeVar Burton, what's good?!" "Can I try my Zune on that?" Depressing, really. Unfortunately for you, Vuzix's latest cable will not make any of that any more sufferable, though it will enable you to use your existing eyewear with Apple's iPhone and enjoy the spoils of side-by-side, interlaced and anaglyph 3D content. Said cable will be bundled in with the company's iWear AV230XL, though existing customers will definitely want to snag the standalone version for $39.95. The full release is after the break.

Continue reading New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Filed under: Handsets, Apple

New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Darren Murph — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST

Continue reading New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Filed under: Cellphones, Portable Video, Wearables

New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Darren Murph — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST

Continue reading New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear

Filed under: Other hardware, Apple

New cable brings iPhone, 3D support to Vuzix eyewear originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Apple patents motion-sensitive HMD concept in defiance of good taste

Samuel Axon — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 06:58:00 EST

Apple has added to its legacy of zany patents a head-mounted display with head-tracking technology intended to reduce viewer fatigue and disorientation (and induce nausea, if we're lucky) by simulating a theater or other viewing environment. The wearer of the device can pick a seat in the fake theater and then manipulate the image, zoom in and out, and look around thanks to an accelerometer and gyroscope built into the goggles. Few of these patents make it to market, but if you're eager to throw social acceptability out the window, there are already iPod and iPhone-compatible head-mounted displays on the market -- you'll just have to do without the positioning gimmick until Apple is crazy enough to actually sell this thing.

[Via TUAW]

Filed under: Displays, Portable Video, Wearables

Apple patents motion-sensitive HMD concept in defiance of good taste originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Myvu's Shades 301 iPod Edition gets hands-on treatment

Darren Murph — Sat, 10 May 2008 20:53:00 EST

Surely you remember that Solo Plus HMD that Myvu aimed at iPod owners late last year? Wait, what? You purged that from your memory as soon as you saw it? Ah well, looks like you'll be on yet another blotting mission after peeking this, as the aforesaid outfit has delivered yet another option for those looking to check out iPod clips on their own personal theater and destroy any chance at garnering friends. The Shades 301 iPod Edition, which is set to cost two Benjamins, actually looks quite different (and dare we say, a smidgen better) than the Solo Plus, and reportedly comes bundled with a pair of Ultimate Ears earbuds, detachable Dock Connector cable, remote, integrated battery and a two-piece cable manager for its neck cabling. If you're inexplicably overcome with an urge to see more, you can check out a brief hands-on by following the read link below.

Filed under: Displays, Portable Audio, Portable Video, Wearables

Myvu's Shades 301 iPod Edition gets hands-on treatment originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 May 2008 20:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brother Industries shows off eyeglass-mountable retina scanning display

Donald Melanson — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:26:00 EST

While it's yet to be seen if eyeglass-mountable displays will become as commonly used as, say, Bluetooth headsets anytime soon, Brother Industries at least looks to be making some steady progress at shrinking 'em down to a reasonable size, and it's got a few other tricks up its sleeve to boot. That latter bit comes from its use of a retina-scanning system as opposed to a simple LCD mounted in front of your eye, which effectively uses your retina as a screen to make it appear like images are actually floating in space in front of you. What's more, while the eyepiece currently needs to be wired to a rather sizable contraption in order to pump out those free-floating images, the company says it expects to be able to switch to a wireless system and shrink things down to a decidedly more wearable size by 2010.

[Thanks, Tom]

Filed under: Wearables

Brother Industries shows off eyeglass-mountable retina scanning display originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dreamax Indicube Linux PMP comes with head-mounted display

Barb Dybwad — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:07:00 EST

Given that carting around an HMD with your PMP cuts down on that whole portability factor and all, but this new Linux PMP from Dreamax is notable for coming bundled with one all the same. The head-mounted Active Matrix 3DS OLED-XL microdisplay visor is being made by eMagin, known for their Z800 3D visor, and sports an 800 x 600 resolution reportedly equivalent to sitting seven feet from a 54-inch screen. The visor includes an integrated magnetic earphone station, adjustable nose clip and other "ergonomic enhancements" indicating that HMD companies might actually be aware that wearing these things is usually brutally uncomfortable. The Indicube i-800 itself is a Linux-based PMP with 12GB onboard storage plus an 8GB flash card, expandable to 32GB flash. Sizing up at 2.3 x 4.8 x 0.9-inches, the Indicube sports a USB 2.0 interface and an NTSC/PAL input that auto-detects AV from a number of sources including TVs, DVD players, iPods, PCs, other PMPs, smartphones, and game consoles. No word on price or availability for the package, but the eMagin HMD will also be sold separately starting in March.

[Via Linux Devices]

Filed under: Displays, Portable Audio, Portable Video

Dreamax Indicube Linux PMP comes with head-mounted display originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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YelloMosquito delivers Qingbar Gp300: the wireless HMD

Darren Murph — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 23:32:00 EST

Although you may not be familiar with YelloMosquito, chances are you're totally aware of the business that 22Moo is in. Turns out, the former is simply a division of the latter, which is busy boasting about the Qingbar Gp300. 'Course, we've known that completely wireless head-mounted displays were in the works, but YM is claiming that these unsightly things are the world's first cordless LCOS video glasses to feature a built-in media player complete with DivX support. Reportedly, users can enjoy getting mocked while watching a 50-inch virtual screen, and they can load up their files via the built-in miniSD slot. If you just can't resist the urge to relive your Virtual Boy glory days, you can pre-order the December-bound unit now for $299 -- otherwise, you'll be laying down a Benjamin more (or smartly saving a mint) when it ships en masse.

[Image courtesy of YelloMosquito]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

YelloMosquito delivers Qingbar Gp300: the wireless HMD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 23:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vuzix introduces LV920: the HMD for the visually impaired

Darren Murph — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 06:16:00 EST

While it's typically far too easy to bash on a new head-mounted display due to its unsightly design, we'll restrain ourselves when talking about the LV920. Vuzix, which veterans may remember as Icuiti, has introduced a new HMD that is tailored specifically for individuals with macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and other low vision problems. Apparently, preclinical trials have shown promising results, and the firm is aiming to ship 'em out en masse sometime this quarter. Vuzix claims that the eyewear will improve vision when reading and boost color perception, but we'd be tempted to wait for a third party confirmation (or denial) before throwing down on something like this.

Filed under: Wearables

Vuzix introduces LV920: the HMD for the visually impaired originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 06:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Myvu intros solo plus HMD with support for new iPods

Evan Blass — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:15:00 EST

Just in case you were worried during "The Beat Goes On" that the new iPods wouldn't work with the current generation of head-mounted displays (which they apparently won't), myvu has come to the rescue with a new model that -- besides a shared distaste for capitalization -- also features an Apple authorization chip for guaranteed compatibility. The solo plus follows the nearly-identical solo that we saw earlier in the year, sporting a low-profile design, wired remote, and integrated, noise-canceling, earbud headphones, while playing nice with the touch, classic, and 3G nano. Also like the solo, the solo plus will retail for $200 when it hits stores in October, so start filling out those return slips if you happened to have purchased an original unit recently.

[Via iLounge]

Filed under: Displays, Portable Video

Myvu intros solo plus HMD with support for new iPods originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Shimadzu DataGlass 3/A: the HMD for Cyclops

Darren Murph — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 09:49:00 EST

Another day, another fancy head mounted display vying for your hard-earned dollars. This time around it's Shimadzu, and rather than hanging the pirates and cycloptic individuals in the crowd out to dry, the DataGlass 3/A is designed to only ~~interfere~~ utilize one eye. Interestingly, this USB-powered iteration is also dust- and water-proof in case you're desperate to view a virtual screen whilst signing in the rain, and can also be connected to your PC or handheld device via a standard VGA cable. No word on price just yet, but be sure and check out the video listed in the read link to quell your excitement.

[Via I4U]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Shimadzu DataGlass 3/A: the HMD for Cyclops originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jul 2007 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Olympus developing completely wireless head-mounted displays

Nilay Patel — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 16:21:00 EST

Olympus is planning on taking head-mounted displays out of the "giant nerd" category and into the "scary dystopian future" realm with a new project to develop a completely wireless system that can also double as eyeglasses. While most other HMDs we've seen feature a cable snaking across your body to an external power pack, Olympus has expanded on its previous efforts (pictured) and is already prototyping a 3-ounce unit with an internal power source powering two side-mounted 110,000-pixel displays that project email onto the lenses. Olympus is optimistically hoping to bring the tech to market in 2012 -- looks like wannabe Terminators are going to be lugging those battery packs around for a while yet.

Filed under: Displays

Olympus developing completely wireless head-mounted displays originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MyVu solo: the $199 iPod-friendly head mounted display

Darren Murph — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 09:42:00 EST

Sure, MyVu's other LCD goggles for iPod weren't stratospherically priced, but creeping under that magical $200 price point could encourage a few more folks to take a serious look at head mounted displays -- or not. Unfortunately, even the MyVu solo still requires you to don those humiliating specs to enjoy the visuals, but this device does enable the attached iPod to power it if you're not keen on picking up the optional eight-hour Li-ion battery pack. The glasses also tout built-in noise-canceling earbuds and are compatible with any of the iPods with video, and hey, for $199.95, they might be worth picking up for in-home (read: not in public) use, but we stress might.

[Via MobileTechReview]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

MyVu solo: the $199 iPod-friendly head mounted display originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Virtual Hallucinating goggles make you temporarily Schizophrenic

Darren Murph — Wed, 23 May 2007 13:03:00 EST

We can't say we'd be first in line to get a dose of Schizophrenia or anything, but Janssen L.P.'s Virtual Hallucinations system shows promise of helping cops, paramedics, and social workers understand a bit more of what the afflicted go through. The technology consists of set of goggles and earphones that envelope you in one of two interactive scenarios that a typical Schizophrenic might face, including being a passenger on a bus in which the other riders continually vanish and reappear while stray birds attempt to invade the inside. The system is reportedly being trialed in a half dozen or so states, and professionals that had made it through the mind warp seem to have a new outlook on respecting and dealing with those with mental illnesses. Of course, if you're just interested in creeping yourself out, there's always easier alternatives.

[Via MedGadget]

Filed under: Wearables

Virtual Hallucinating goggles make you temporarily Schizophrenic originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2007 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scalar, eMagin showcase HMD and microdisplay creations

Darren Murph — Wed, 23 May 2007 10:02:00 EST

It's no secret that we most any sane individuals give the gaudy head-mounted displays of today a hard time for being so socially destructive, but a pair of companies have unveiled separate creations that look to make these things a bit less noticeable when perched on your face. eMagin's prototype SVGA-3DS microdisplay (shown after the jump) comes in at a minuscule 0.44-inches, relies on OLED-on-silicon technology, touts impressively low power consumption, and can reportedly show off an 800 x 600 resolution image. Over in Japan, Scalar is back on the scene with its Teleglass T3-F, which projects a virtual image of a 28-inch display two meters ahead of the viewer. The device mounts on the arm of your glasses, sports a 0.24-inch WVGA transmissive LCD, operates nearly four hours on two AA batteries, only covers one eye (baby steps, folks), and is fully retractable for those times when you actually need to converse with people without completely frightening them away. eMagin's invention is still being tweaked before official release, but citizens residing across the seas can pick up Scalar's latest right now for a stiff ¥98,000 ($808).

[Via I4U]
Read - eMagin's SVGA-3DS microdisplay
Read - Scalar's Teleglass T3-F

Continue reading Scalar, eMagin showcase HMD and microdisplay creations

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Scalar, eMagin showcase HMD and microdisplay creations originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2007 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Head-mounted display helps disabled walk

Darren Murph — Fri, 04 May 2007 01:45:00 EST

Although we've seen gait monitors and even prosthetic feet that assist individuals in regaining a more natural stride, scientists at Technion Institute of Technology in Israel have resorted to a head-mounted display for its rendition. This virtual reality device combines "auditory and visual feedback to improve walking speed and stride length in patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's disease," and provides the wearer with a "tiled-floor image" that apparently assists them in navigating nearly any terrain. The device is meant to take the place of normal muscle feedback mechanisms, and to provide said feedback to these disabled individuals so they can make adjustments and improve the efficiency of their walk. The HMD has already made its way to several medical centers and has purportedly yielded positive results, but there was no word on when this device would be commercially available.

[Via MedGadget]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets, Wearables

Head-mounted display helps disabled walk originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2007 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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i-Bean glasses provide mobile TV up close and personal

Darren Murph — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 06:54:00 EST

It's getting to the point where some of these gadget-laced glasses providers are going to have to collaborate, as hauling around a suitcase full of variously useful specs is really getting rediculous. Joining the ever-growing fray is Arisawa Japan, whose i-Beam contraption functions as a less invasive head-mounted display by beaming a virtual "21-inch screen" of broadcast television right before your very eyes. The device itself weighs in at just ten grams, packs an external attachment to house the TV tuner and four AA batteries, and a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack to boot. Of course, we'd probably recommend just snapping up a do-it-all GPS unit that handles television programming on the side, but hey, it's your ¥39,800 ($336) to do with as you please.

[Via Wired]

Filed under: Displays, Portable Video, Wearables

i-Bean glasses provide mobile TV up close and personal originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 06:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scalar's video-enabled Teleglass T4 sunglasses

Darren Murph — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 11:40:00 EST

Apparently, the millions and millions of consumers keeping these spectacle companies in business don't actually use them in public, as Scalar has somehow justified busting out yet another set of microdisplay-equipped glasses for the world to, um, see. The firm is no stranger to the world of video-enabled glasses, but these tinted gems still retain that terribly unfashionable look while offering up a "virtual 45-inch screen" for commuters to watch while getting unknowingly stared at. The device can reportedly accept nearly any AV input, including that from an iPod or other PMP / DVD player, and gives the illusion that you're viewing a screen from nearly two feet away. The (fairly) lightweight specs weigh in at 40-grams, and while we've no idea why you'd be interested, you can snag the Teleglass T4 in April for a completely ridiculous ¥100,000 ($824). [Warning: Read link requires subscription]

[Via PlasticBamboo]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Scalar's video-enabled Teleglass T4 sunglasses originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Jan 2007 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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22Moo intros SeepuStar DV230 video goggles

Donald Melanson — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 03:23:00 EST

There's certainly no shortage of low-res video goggles on the market, but Australia's 22Moo seems to think there's room for just one more (they must know something we don't), bolstering its own lineup with the SeepuStar DV230 wearable display -- apparently, coming courtesy of OEM manufacturer Icuiti. While 22Moo's holding back on most of the specs for now, they do say that the Seepustars will give you a virtual 35-inch screen and can be used with just about anything with video out -- just don't be too disappointed if your brand new PS3 looks more like a PS1 after you hook it up to a pair of these. At least, we're guessing -- $250 will only buy you so much resolution. Look for these to be available later this month.

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

22Moo intros SeepuStar DV230 video goggles originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Nov 2006 03:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Icuiti unveils AV230 head-mounted display

Darren Murph — Mon, 13 Nov 2006 14:25:00 EST

Icuiti, producers of numerous "intelligent display solutions," has rolled out a new head-mounted display to provide "four to five hours" of portable viewing satisfaction. Similar in specification to the company's iWear (not that iWear), the AV230 differs in that it doesn't play favorites with Apple's iPod, and instead works with any video source including DVD players and gaming consoles. The eyewear sports twin 320 x 240 resolution displays, an integrated, rechargeable battery pack, 60Hz refresh rates, automatic 2D / 3D selector, NTSC / PAL support, and a mini-USB charger to "maximize mobility." Reportedly "developed from US Military technology," the goggles provide a "44-inch virtual screen" and can even be worn with prescription eyewear, but they fail to mention the humiliation you'll endure if you're caught rocking these in public. Regardless, the AV230 can be purchased now for private, in-home use for $269, and units should start shipping to brave early adopters in December.

[Via I4U]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Icuiti unveils AV230 head-mounted display originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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