Apple has been awarded a patent that describes an augmented reality (AR) system capable of tagging real-world items in a live video stream and displaying information about them in a Heads-Up Display (HUD) overlay. This technology sounds eerily similar to the infamous Pop-Up Video feature, where users could turn their device to focus on a specific item, and receive a pop-up picture or information about it.
How Apple’s AR System Works
The patent describes an AR system designed for iOS devices, which can be used in various ways. At its most basic level, the system works by labeling elements of an image in a live video feed. For instance, if you use your iPad-like device to take a picture of a circuit board with the rear-facing camera, the system will label the different parts of the board.
Advanced Features
However, Apple’s AR system has more advanced features than just basic labeling. Users can edit the supplied data in case of inaccuracies or incorrect matches, and also share information between users and devices. This collaboration aspect is a unique feature of Apple’s AR system, as one user can annotate or edit the information being presented on their own view, and send it to another user’s device.
Sharing and Collaboration
Apple’s AR system involves a sharing component that allows users to display both the straight image itself and the version with overlaid information side-by-side. This dual-view feature can be shared live with another user, enabling one user to build a virtual map and highlight important Points of Interest (POIs), which can then be synced with another user’s device to help them navigate.
Potential Applications
This technology has numerous potential applications, including:
- Navigation: Users can interact with computer-generated models to navigate through streets and modify points of interest in real-time.
- Medical Imaging: Doctors can compare x-rays or other medical imaging using Apple’s AR system.
- Professionals: This collaboration feature can be applied to various professions, such as architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), where teams can work together on projects.
Unique Features
Apple’s AR system stands out from similar products due to its sharing and collaboration features. The technology also includes techniques that could easily be adapted for wearable AR displays like Google Glass.
Implications for iOS Devices
The implications of Apple’s AR patent are significant, as it can enhance the current iOS Maps experience with real-time information about POIs and navigation. As an API built into iOS, this technology opens up a wide range of possibilities for developers to create innovative applications using AR.
Comparison with Other Products
While other players like Layar have pivoted away from similar products, Apple’s goals and vision for its AR system are unique. The patent highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to push boundaries in the field of augmented reality.
Conclusion
Apple’s augmented reality patent marks a significant milestone in the development of this technology. With its advanced features, sharing capabilities, and potential applications, Apple’s AR system is poised to revolutionize the way we interact with our surroundings. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how this technology shapes the future of iOS devices.
References
- [1] AppleInsider: Apple awarded patent for augmented reality system that tags real-world items
- [2] Patent Document: AR System for iOS Devices
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