Spatial Computing – AR/VR/MR
Who and What For?
New and cool tech platforms are always worth a look but, at the end of the day, someone has to be able to actually use what you’ve created/invented. So, as these augmented, virtual, and mixed reality technologies continue to evolve, a reasonable question is what are the possible applications for both consumers and businesses? There are some obvious and some not-so-obvious answers.
Before we dive into actual market applications, one note about what makes this technology more accessible. In a word: 5G. Until now, slower, unreliable connectivity simply did not have the literal bandwidth to support these more sophisticated and content laden applications. As 5G rolls out into the culture there will finally be the streaming connection to match the cool programming content and platforms.
First the obvious:
Gamers – The audio headsets our kids use to play video games remotely from around the globe will soon be replaced with Oculus-type headsets allowing them an even more immersive gaming experience. With more physical engagement required by these headsets I can see the residual effects already. More trips to the ER, broken lamps the other furniture in the house and a Christmas list consisting of one item…a new Oculus 2.
Sports Leagues – Sporting venues will now give you the option to experience the action on a whole new level through your AR/VR devices. Both the in-game, live experience at the stadium/arena and the remote esports experience will benefit from enhanced ways to get in the game.
Technical Training – In a business application these new tools can create a dynamic link between technical instructors and students. By using interactive forms of CGI 3D animation, students can engage with machinery remotely. This will not only bridge the gap between remote access for training but be able to solve real-world problems in real-time.
Which leads us to some of the not-so-obvious:
Medicine – Take MRI scanning and imagine it transmitted across the globe but also on an interactive platform! Doctors can communicate complex diagnosis concepts with animated and interactive examples and do so with multiple colleagues in various locations all at the same time. This will not only improve current patient treatment but, by extension, dramatically change the way medical training and education is conducted. Imagine being able to do your internship/practicum remotely!
Automotive Repair – Think about it. Your dealership mechanic is working on your car and needs a part. But is it the right part? Will it fit as expected? She pops on her headset and connects to the parts manufacturer to quickly verify fit and function virtually while physically interacting with your vehicle on the garage floor. If you have ever had your mechanic call you and tell you they got the wrong part while repairing your vehicle you KNOW how great an idea this is!
I could go on, but for homework (did I mention how this could change Education!!!???), imagine for yourself how a 3D experience of a product or information or personal interaction could be revolutionized by turning your virtual meeting into something more tactile and immersive. Just think of a few…hospital visits with relatives you otherwise cannot visit in person, business meetings where you are all virtually in the same space, museum tours of the great museums of the world where you can walk around without the crowds and ponder great art from your living room. Imagine…
Well, some of this is already in-play. The rest is likely to drop within the next five years. And we all have front-row seats as this spatial computing revolution unfolds.