As we observe the evolution of augmented and virtual reality, we can already confidently predict that our world of technology will no longer be confined to 2D screens, but begin implanting in the world all around us. It seems one of the next stems in our future of AR is through glasses. Apple is soon to be coming out with glasses that will change the game when it comes to augmented reality.
Designers and users have already expressed some major concerns they have surrounding a potential camera in these glasses as it would be highly unethical and confusing to users what is being recorded and when. However Apple is already ahead of this part of the ethics around glasses by using a revolutionary technology called the LiDAR sensor. This is a no camera scanner that gages distance and depth by sending out laser light.
Another interesting note about these glasses has been discovered through existing patents that may point to the glasses being controlled through hand gestures, blinking, smiling, or raising of the eyebrows. All of this alludes to the fact that interaction design user input is changing to encompass more physical gestural commands besides just the fingertips.
Facebook is also attempting to create their own version of AR glasses by pairing with Ray-bans, however they have already discussed the long road ahead before the commercial product can even be built from a technological standpoint.
What makes the glasses such a game changer for interaction designers is the new possibility of interfaces. No longer are interfaces confined to a 2D screen, but interaction designs will be able to come up with new ways to communicate information in this real world visual reality. What will a website look like if accessed through AR glasses? How will that information even be accessed by the user? These are all questions and opportunities to set the stage for a new world of technology and informational structuring as the formatting of screens and 2d workspaces would be completely irrelevant in a AR setting.
Some things to consider in terms of 2nd and 3rd order consequences is the potential misuse of this technology from companies. I could potentially see advertising as a place where AR is exploiting users. The companies can now track exactly what we are doing or what we are into and use that against us. Another thing to consider for interaction designers is the lack of separation from reality and the augmented reality through the glasses. We already see younger generations have issues with technology addiction as well as mental health as a direct correlation to heavy technology use. It is also not far fetched to imagine how social media can evolve to become similar to the black mirror episode where we view people through their status or even have the opportunity to block people in real life. This can all dramatically impact the way humans behave socially which is why there must be deep explorations into these potentially negative outcomes before the products are able to be widespread.
Sources:
After reading your post, AR glasses will soon become widespread in our lives, like VR!
As someone who already wears glasses, i’d love this! It’d be cool if there was a way to transfer the “feed” to your car when you’re driving or when you switch to sunglasses.
I agree with you. The AR technology will be the game changer when it’s implemented to glasses
It might be really interesting when everyone wears glasses to experience AR. Enjoyed reading your post!
I really enjoyed the first video! Feel like a lot of movies have been using this type of technology to demonstrate the future digital world.