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Spatial Computing
Context:
Spatial computing is the future of human-technology interaction, blending virtual content into the physical world using AI, computer vision, and extended reality (XR).
It’s more than just the metaverse, representing a 3D-centric approach to integrating digital experiences with our everyday environment.
The first generation of spatial computing
- Wearable devices: It relies on wearable tech, like headsets or glasses, to deliver the augmented reality experience.
- Augmented reality (AR): The ability to overlay digital 3D objects onto the physical world, making it seem like they are part of the environment.
- Spatial computing is in its early stages, but it has the potential to significantly change how we interact with technology, similar to the shift brought about by mobile computing.
- The World Economic Forum recognises it as a key emerging technology with the potential to significantly impact people and the planet in the coming years.
What is Spatial Computing?
- The term “spatial computing” was coined back in 2003 by researcher Simon Greenwold.
- A “human interaction with a machine in which the machine retains and manipulates referents to real objects and spaces.”
- Simply put, spatial computing technology blends the digital and physical by overlaying computer interfaces onto the real world.
- Rather than staring at a screen, users interact with digital objects and information using natural movements in 3D space.
Examples:
- Leading tech companies are developing advanced AR glasses, while healthcare providers are using VR for patient treatment and medical training.
- Visual driving directions on car windshields.
- Virtual office metaverses for collaboration.
- Pokémon Go, which overlays digital characters onto the real world for interaction.
Components and Techniques:
- Spatial computers incorporate sensors (such as RGB cameras, depth cameras, and 3D trackers) to sense and track human bodies during interactions in a 3D space.
- Computer vision is used to understand real-world scenes, recognise objects, create 3D maps, and more.
- Extended reality (XR) and mixed reality (MR) superimpose virtual 3D graphics and audio onto our visual and auditory systems, providing contextual information naturally.
Applications:
- Gaming and entertainment: XR experiences are transforming gaming, movies, and live events, offering new levels of immersion.
- Education and work: Virtual surgery practice for medical students, virtual experiments for science students, and design modifications for architects and designers.
- Healthcare: Access to vital information and 3D scans for doctors, personalised virtual assistants and exercises for patients.
- Industry and Manufacturing: Augmented reality is being used for training, maintenance, and quality control, improving efficiency and safety.
Challenges and Future Prospects:
- High device costs limit accessibility for average consumers.
- User experience issues: Devices are often heavy, and bulky, have low battery life, and poor resolution, leading to potential tiredness and nausea.
- Privacy concerns arise as more personal data is collected and processed.
- Apple’s entry could drive innovation and accessibility, setting trends for other companies to follow.
Apple’s Vision
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