Engadget

Epson Moverio BT-100 3D goggles now shipping in the U.S. for $699

Sharif Sakr — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:50:00 EST

Any Americans out there wanna buy a wacky head-mounted 3D display? Then Epson's Moverio BT-100 micro-projection headset ought to be right at the top of the your not-so-long list of options. It's just started shipping in the States for $699, including its Android-powered trackpad controller that streams and navigates content on the perceived '80-inch' transparent viewing window. You could even pair the Moverio with a Parrot AR.Drone and discover what it feels like to be an Apache pilot strafing your neighbor's rabbit.

Continue reading Epson Moverio BT-100 3D goggles now shipping in the U.S. for $699

Epson Moverio BT-100 3D goggles now shipping in the U.S. for $699 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 05:50:00 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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Vuzix augmented reality Smart Glasses prototype hands-on (video)

Sean Buckley — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:59:00 EST

Remember those wicked holographic augmented reality glasses that DARPA was so hot to build? They're almost here. Hiding out at Vuzix's CES booth we found a functional prototype for its Smart Glasses industrial class monocular display -- a special lens attached to a proprietary display driver that produces a bright, 1.4mm holographic picture for one of your peepers. Vuzix told us the lenses were the fruit of a DARPA project, and could allow soldiers involved in air-to-surface operations to track jets, check their ordinance and mark targets for destruction. The military / industrial monocle will go on sale in Q3 of 2012 for somewhere between $2500-3000.

Want to look a little more, well, normal while you're augmenting your reality? You're covered -- or at least you will be in 2013. Not only will Vuzix's consumer facing smart glasses offer you the same holographic heads-up technology that'll power its military bound brother, it'll cost you a bundle less, too: between $350-600. The unit we saw wasn't final, but were told the final unit will be able to accept connections over HDMI, and may even be capable of displaying stereoscopic 3D content -- you know, in case the real world wasn't real enough. Hopefully, we'll be able to tell you those fit next year. Ready to see how you'll be gussying up reality in the future? Hit the break for our hands-on video coverage.

Gallery: Vuzix Smart Glasses Technology eyes-on

Continue reading Vuzix augmented reality Smart Glasses prototype hands-on (video)

Vuzix augmented reality Smart Glasses prototype hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:59:00 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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Vuzix designs Smart Glasses to look like sunshades, tout connected transparent display

Zach Honig — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST

Vuzix has announced plans to develop a stylish head-mounted display solution in the form of Smart Glasses, through a licensing partnership with Nokia. The yet-unnamed product would integrate a bright, high-contrast display with a pair of seemingly ordinary-looking sunglasses -- sounds like a perfect companion to the ZionEyez in-glasses camera prototype we saw last month. In Vuzix's words:

This amazing new technology starts with a compact display engine capable of hi contrast and brightness for outdoor use. The output is then relayed into a 1.4 mm thick plastic waveguide lens with input and output hologram structures on the surface which squeezes the light down the waveguide and then two dimensionally expands the image back into the user's eye, creating an image that is then mixed into the real world.

Naturally, the company envisions its Smart Glasses solution as a web-connected device, letting you watch videos or browse the internet while still being able to see-and-avoid pedestrians as you walk on the sidewalk or obstacles while behind the wheel -- try doing that with a Kindle or smartphone (better yet, please don't). Vuzix expects its Smart Glasses solution to start appearing as early as this summer, but we'll be getting an early look next week at CES.

Gallery: Vuzix SMART Glasses Technology

Continue reading Vuzix designs Smart Glasses to look like sunshades, tout connected transparent display

Vuzix designs Smart Glasses to look like sunshades, tout connected transparent display originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:01:00 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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Developer pairs robot with gaming controllers for remote cat grooming, affection expression

Chris Barylick — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST

You could take the time to make your cat feel loved. Or you could augment a robot to do it for you. Software engineer Taylor Veltrop has accomplished this by combining a 21-inch-tall Nao robot, a few Wiimotes, a Kinect sensor bar, a treadmill and a head-mounted display. The configuration, which represents about a year's work and several thousand dollars in parts, uses the Kinect and Wii remotes to control the robot's arms, the sensor bar and treadmill to provide movement and the head-mounted display to move the Nao's head and adjust its camera angle. This is still a work in progress, and doesn't include things like two-way audio, which Veltrop plans to implement using an integrated microphone and speakers. Click past the break for a video of robotic feline grooming action.

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Developer pairs robot with gaming controllers for remote cat grooming, affection expression originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs

Terrence O'Brien — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:50:00 EST

Does a pair of screens placed over your eyes seem like overkill? Well, AR enthusiasts, Vuzix has heard your calls and has introduced the Tac-Eye LT -- a transparent monocular AMOLED display that only puts info in front of one of your peepers. Unlike some of the company's other head-mounted displays, the Tac-Eye isn't aimed at personal entertainment. Instead, Vuzix envisions it being used as a HUD in rugged environments, offering alerts, data and video feeds. The unit comes mounted on a pair of Oakley specs (of course) but it can easily be clipped to a pair of standard safety glasses. The 800 x 600 see-through display comes in three different configurations: VGA-in, video-in or both. The Tac-Eye LT is available throughout Europe now... at least according to the PR. We couldn't find them for sale anywhere, nor could we track down pricing info. Head on after the break for the full release and a few more technical details.

Continue reading Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs

Vuzix Tac-Eye LT offers a clip on HUD for rugged, wannabe cyborgs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony's 0.7-inch OLED microdisplay packs 720p resolution, has head-mounted displays in mind (update)

Joe Pollicino — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:12:00 EST

Say howdy to Sony's ECX332A! Excited? We'll, if you're into ~~shooting DSLR video using electronic viewfinders~~, head-mounted displays, you might be. This ~~new~~ OLED microdisplay measures in it a mere 0.7-inches, managing an HD resolution of 1280 x 720. As understood by OLED-Info, it features "the same white OLED and color-filters architecture" as the ECX331A (far left), which is the 0.5-inch, 1024 × 768 XGA variant Sony's implemented inside of the EVFs found on its NEX-5N and A77 cameras, among others. Notably, it'll likely be a pleasure to look through with a brightness level rated at 200 cd/m2 and a peppy response time of 0.01ms. ~~There's no word on what future Sony shooters we can expect to find the ECX332A in~~, but if you're curious for more details -- and well-versed in kana -- hit that source link below.

Update: As it turns out, this isn't exactly a new EVF-purposed display -- it's apparently the microdisplay being used twice over inside of Sony's HMZ-T1 head-mounted 3D visor. You'll find further clarification at the "more coverage" links below.

[Thanks, Aaron]

Sony's 0.7-inch OLED microdisplay packs 720p resolution, has head-mounted displays in mind (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:12:00 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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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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Carl Zeiss Cinemizer 3D Plus glasses get OLED infusion, still no attention

Tim Stevens — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 10:44:00 EST

Carl Zeiss keeps on making minor improvements to its Cinemizer head-mounted display, announced way back in 2008 and intended to be the most amazing way to watch stuff on your iPod. They didn't exactly catch on then, and two years later we're not entirely sure that the latest revision will either. The tiny screens that sit a fraction of an inch from your eyeballs have been upgraded to OLED, which should make them bright and lovely as they pummel your rods and cones, but sadly they're still stuck in VGA land -- 640 x 480 is not a lot of pixels these days. This version also pledges greater compatibility with non-Apple devices, a welcome change, and even more welcome is the new visual styling, which makes you look a little less walleyed than the last model. Despite this the price hasn't changed much, estimated to be around €400 ($515), but that's still a lot to pay just to have the coolest Frozone costume ever.

Carl Zeiss Cinemizer 3D Plus glasses get OLED infusion, still no attention originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Sep 2010 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear ships out to virtual big-screen lovers

Darren Murph — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST

Vuzix's $249.95 Wrap 310 is probably the least hideous / heinous of the video eyewear options on the market today, and while it's still take a few bottles of Jack to get us to rock these with a smile, those who are just high on life can now make a set their own. In case you're forgotten, these things provide a virtual 55-inch screen in front of your eyes, and there's support for iPod / iPhone connections as well as basic sources such as DVD players and the like. And hey, there's also the possibility that these could be used in augmented reality applications in the future, so feel free to considering this some sort of futuristic investment. Just like those Y2K preparedness tapes you bought in '99.

Continue reading Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear ships out to virtual big-screen lovers

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

Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear ships out to virtual big-screen lovers originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kopin's Golden-i wearable microdisplay demoed, Francisco Scaramanga unavailable for comment

Tim Stevens — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST

Wondering what Kopin was going to do with that .34-inch SVGA display? It's wedged one into a working prototype of the Golden-i, a wearable computer that sports Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity on a full Windows CE 6.0 device built into the headband, with up to 6GB of memory and support for microSD storage. Navigation is performed with head movements and voice commands, the latter of which aren't particularly effective at this point according to The Inquirer, which was able to take one for a test run at the ESC event in Boston. But, Kopin's engineers were quick to indicate they'll have that issue addressed before the device's eventual release. The price isn't particularly extreme, under $2,000, meaning you shouldn't have to hijack any secret military satellites and blackmail the world to afford one. But, don't let us step on your evil mastermind plans.

Filed under: Displays, Wearables, Wireless

Kopin's Golden-i wearable microdisplay demoed, Francisco Scaramanga unavailable for comment originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear actually isn't the ugliest thing of all time

Darren Murph — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:44:00 EST

Could it be? Could it really be? Has Vuzix actually deployed a video eyewear solution that isn't completely unsightly in every imaginable way? Our eyes may be deceiving us, but we're going with "yes, amazingly" for the time being. Unlike the company's iWear line -- which looks pretty much exactly like the specs worn by Geordi La Forge -- the unpriced Wrap 310 resembles a set of sunglasses. Now, these aren't apt to be mistaken for Aviators or those patented Kayne joints, but at least you'd look halfway civilized if caught in public with these on your face. Packing a pair of video displays and promising a virtual 55-inch image, these get juiced by just two AA cells and can play nice with pretty much any video source, iPod and iPhone included. There's also an expansion port that'll give it VGA / component outputs in the near future, and if you subscribe to science fiction, it could also be used to read minds in around a score.

Gallery: Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear actually isn't the ugliest thing of all time

Continue reading Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear actually isn't the ugliest thing of all time

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Vuzix Wrap 310 video eyewear actually isn't the ugliest thing of all time originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Optinvent promises to offer Clear Vu HMD for less than $200

Donald Melanson — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:02:00 EST

While some may say that price isn't the main factor that's been holding HMDs back from mass acceptance, France's Optinvent (a spin-off of Thomson S.A.) is apparently of that opinion, and it's now promising to deliver a full-fledged HMD for less than $200 by the end of next year. In addition to their trend-setting good looks (to be further refined in the final version), the company's so-called Clear Vu goggles make use of a reflection system that displays images in the wearer's field of vision rather than completely obstructing it, which the company says opens to the door a whole host of augmented reality possibilities -- like heads-up GPS directions, for instance. Unfortunately, the company isn't offering much in the way of actual specs just yet, although it does say the goggles will display an image size equivalent to a 71-inch TV placed 2.5 meters away.

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Optinvent promises to offer Clear Vu HMD for less than $200 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Interactive data eyeglasses could bring the PC to your face, won't fix nearsightedness

Darren Murph — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:19:00 EST

Leave it the mad scientists at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft to concoct this one. Rather than just figuring out a way to read back information in one-way fashion on one's glasses (think Sixth Sense, but with eyewear), these folks are diving right in to the real stuff: bidirectional communication. In essence, their goal for the interactive data eyeglasses is to track eye movement in order to allow ones retinas to scroll through menus, flip through options and zoom in / out on a map. Obviously, a microdisplay will be necessary as well, but that's just half the battle. We'll confess -- we're still not humble enough to take our Vuzix HMD out in public, but we just might swap our Transitions[TM] for a set of these.

[Via OLED-Display]

Filed under: Wearables

Interactive data eyeglasses could bring the PC to your face, won't fix nearsightedness originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:19:00 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.

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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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Vuzix dips toes in augmented reality, makes video eyewear cool again

Darren Murph — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:43:00 EST

Nintendo ain't the only company making waves at the Game Developers Conference this year -- oh no, we've also got Vuzix gettin' down and dirty with a brand new addition to its video eyewear segment. Said outfit has teamed up with metaio in order to showcase a new Augmented Reality Accessory Kit for the VR920 head-mounted display. The bundle will include the CamAR -- a clip-on USB camera that is designed to accurately track objects and the user's position in three-dimensional space -- along with the PhasAR wireless augmented reality input controller. When these are used in unison, users are able to simultaneously see what's going on in the Matrix and in the display. For instance, imagine reading a book that's tied into a program on the VR920; as you read along, images can pop up and complement the text. Far out, right? The full release is after the break, and we've been told that the attachment should sell for around $100 on top of the $399 VR920 when it ships around mid-Summer.

Continue reading Vuzix dips toes in augmented reality, makes video eyewear cool again

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Vuzix dips toes in augmented reality, makes video eyewear cool again originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nikon announces Media Port UP300x head-mounted PMP

Nilay Patel — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:53:00 EST

Just when we were getting used to having most Nikon announcements thoroughly preceded by a flood of leaks, the company's managed to totally surprise us by introducing a new head-mounted display with PMP features -- and it actually looks pretty sweet. The WiFi-enabled 8GB Media Port UP UP300x has a .44-inch 640 x 480 screen that appears to be the equivalent of a 50-inch image viewed from about 10 feet away, and includes a motion sensor that allows media functions to be controlled through head movements. (There's also a "basic" 4GB UP300 that omits the motion control features.) Codec support is pretty slim, but there's a browser app and a new UP media store that allows for direct downloads. Two AA batteries will last for two hours of video or 270 minutes of audio, which should be enough time for you to look thoroughly like a dork, but we won't lie -- we'd buy one of these in a heartbeat if they ever make it out of Japan.

[Via Akihabara News]

Filed under: Portable Audio, Portable Video, Wearables

Nikon announces Media Port UP300x head-mounted PMP originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MyVu Crystal a worthy travel companion, available now

Darren Murph — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:01:00 EST

Surely you remember Veronica Belmont posing with the MyVu Crystal / Shades at CES earlier this year? Yeah, the former unit is finally available to order for the three people in attendance who care, and better still, a recent review by PC World asserts that this thing actually isn't a half bad travel companion. Imagery was said to be "crystal-clear" (har) and battery life was more than reasonable, but look, even the reviewer admitted that he "wouldn't be caught walking down the street" with 'em on. Purchase accordingly.

Filed under: Displays, Portable Audio, Portable Video

MyVu Crystal a worthy travel companion, available now originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:01:00 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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Apple files for head-mounted laser display patent, death of style imminent

Nilay Patel — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:34:00 EST

Dorks we may be, but we're just not ready for head-mounted displays to hit the mainstream -- which is why this patent application for laser-based headgear from Apple makes us cringe just as hard as the MyVu product line. Apple wants to up the nerd factor immeasurably by putting all the image processing and generation hardware in a belt-clipped processing box, which will allow the glasses to shrink down and potentially be indistinguishable from regular glasses. Laser-generated images from the box are then transmitted to wedge optics in the glasses via a fiber optic cable, and hey -- you're watching The Office on your glasses with a processing box clipped to your belt. Can you say "coolest guy in school?" Yeah, didn't think so -- no amount of white plastic and brushed aluminum will ever make this okay. The application just went public today, so there's a long way to go before Apple actually gets this patent -- here's hoping we get a similarly long reprieve from ubiquitous head-mounted displays.

[Via Unwired View]

Filed under: Wearables

Apple files for head-mounted laser display patent, death of style imminent originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Omni-directional treadmill allows individuals to sashay through virtual cities

Darren Murph — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 13:32:00 EST

Though not the first omni-directional treadmill we've ever seen, this version crafted for the EU-funded CyberWalk Project is entirely more interesting. The 6- x 6-meter device features an active walking area of 4.5- x 4.5-meters, and later this month, individuals anxious to prance through a virtual city will be able to strap on a head-mounted display, lace up their LA Lights and indulge in escapism. Aside from giving curious persons the ability to walk through a recreated version of ancient Pompeii, the device could also be used to meander through buildings not yet created or give firefighters a way to train without placing them in harm's way. Now, if only there was an option to dissolve into pixels and teleport to locales you find particularly intriguing, we'd be sold.

[Via Slashdot]

Filed under: Misc. Gadgets

Omni-directional treadmill allows individuals to sashay through virtual cities originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Apr 2008 13:32:00 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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RelaxView 5.0 Dental Pack distracts from pain, does not clean teeth

Evan Blass — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:24:00 EST

In a clever bit of marketing designed to play to our deepest fears of oral torture at the hands of a disgruntled hygienist, Dutch manufacturer relaxView B.V. is bundling a head-mounted display with a portable DVD player and offering it up to dentists as a way to distract their ~~victims~~ patients from the unbearable pain. The RelaxView 5.0 Dental Pack combines the company's relaxView 3.0 HMD (simulates a 1.5-meter VGA screen at a distance of three meters), unnamed model of Discman, and "disposable hygiene set" (read: pack of alcohol swabs) into a package that differentiates itself by promising "optimum comfort" derived from a 65-gram weight and adjustable nose support. Not too shabby: if we had the rate our options in these situations, we'd pick watching a movie just ahead of staring at the colorful exam room artwork, and just behind a heavy drugging.

Filed under: Displays, Misc. Gadgets, Portable Video

RelaxView 5.0 Dental Pack distracts from pain, does not clean teeth originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:24:00 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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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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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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Shoulder-mounted camera could extend human abilities

Darren Murph — Tue, 27 Mar 2007 05:42:00 EST

No question about it, strapping a webcam to your dome or rocking a set of unsightly head-mounted displays can kill a substantial amount of time, but researchers from the University of Bristol are looking at more practical uses of wearable cameras. A shoulder-mounted camera system that "automatically tracks head movements and can recognize hand gestures" has been developed in the UK, and eventually, they hope for it to recognize what the user is doing and make his / her life easier by communicating with other devices based on their actions. The cam is controlled wirelessly by a host computer, which "uses the camera's output to keep track of objects, map its position and recognize different hand gestures made by the user." Interestingly, the perched device even includes a trio of motors for muti-directional assistance, and built-in inertia sensors keep it level with the dips and dodges of life. Of course, we can't promise you that everyone (like mall security) will take kindly to a Big Brother-type device flanked on your shoulder, but at least you won't have to hire a bodyguard to watch your back, right?

Filed under: Digital Cameras

Shoulder-mounted camera could extend human abilities originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 05:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Headplay announces Personal Cinema System HMD

Donald Melanson — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 13:55:00 EST

Los Angeles-based Headplay has announced a new head-mounted display that it's hoping will stand out from the myriad of other stylish HMDs on the market, set to officially unveil its visor-style Personal Cinema System at CES. Designed by the prolific folks at IDEO, the Headplay uses a single LCoS micro display to deliver a virtual 52-inch screen at resolutions "up to" 1024 x 768, with a separate "Liberator" box handling the input situation, including component, composite, and s-video signals, as well two USB ports and support for various memory card formats. Unlike most other HMDs, the Headplay also does away with the integrated headphones, although the company will be providing a set of noise-suppression ear-buds of its own along with the unit. Look for this one to land sometime in April for an even $500.

[Via Uber-Review]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

Headplay announces Personal Cinema System HMD originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Jan 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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22Moo expands its awkward lineup of head mounted displays

Darren Murph — Sun, 17 Dec 2006 09:53:00 EST

Although we Americans tend to scoff at anything labeled 3D, stereoscopic, or wearable display, apparently the Aussies (or somebody) think these things are pretty inspiring. Expanding its (astoundingly) growing list of head mounted displays, 22Moo is offering two more (likely rebadged) units to literally gander at, and is going all out with its marketing ploys to connect these gaudy headpieces to some of the trendiest products out. The lightweight i-Vision 230 comes in white (surprised?), red, and silver color schemes, features a "virtual display" of 35-inches from 2-meters away, rocks a 320 x 240 resolution LCD, and plays nice with your "video iPod, Zune, Wii, and Xbox 360" (not to mention basically any other vanilla video source). The beefed-up Argo+PC adds "PlayStation 3 and set-top box" compatibility, features twin 640 x 480 resolution LCDs, a detachable light shield, stereo headphones, and generates a virtual image of 43-inches. Additionally, this set can reproduce "3D stereoscopic images" if used with a "compatible video card." Both eyewear devices are currently available for those interested, and while the i-Vision 230 will run you $250, the presumably Star Trek-approved Argo+PC (pictured after the break) will demand $350.

Continue reading 22Moo expands its awkward lineup of head mounted displays

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

22Moo expands its awkward lineup of head mounted displays originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Dec 2006 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ezGear's ezVision Video GlassesHMD

Alberto Ballestin — Mon, 12 Jun 2006 14:05:00 EST

Until full-color flexible displays start hitting the market in who knows how many years, the only way to get big-screen video enjoyment on the go (besides holding your iPod right up to your face) is by attaching your device to a head-mounted display. Far from the bulky eyesores they once were, HMDs have thankfully evolved to the point where you don't look completely goofy sporting a pair in public, so there will probably be some interest in a new low-profile model called the ezVision Video ~~iWear~~ Glasses. Typical of these devices, instead of advertising the actual size of the LCDs, manufacturer ezGear only claims that the ezVisions simulate a 50-inch widescreen TV at some undetermined distance. You also get an 8-hour rechargeable battery, iPod and RCA breakout cables, and a replaceable nose piece, all for $400 direct from the manufacturer, or perhaps less when they arrive at retailers later this month.

[Via Yahoo]

Update: Sounds like ezGear was using "iWear," a trademark belonging to another company, without permission. Woops! Call 'em the ezVision Video Glasses.

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

ezGear's ezVision Video GlassesHMD originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Jun 2006 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LightVu HMD uses "NanoPrism" tech to eliminate "cyberstress"

Evan Blass — Fri, 05 May 2006 17:00:00 EST

Although not any more stylish than the rest of the head-mounted displays on the market, the LightVu reference design from Israeli startup Mirage Innovations could provide a benefit even more important than fashion, which is preventing you from throwing up. The lightweight plastic goggles feature a proprietary technology that the company calls "NanoPrism," which supposedly eliminates the "cyberstress" (nausea, dizziness, vertigo) inherent to other binocular devices by some fancy manipulation of the 42-inch-equivalent picture. Specifically, a diffractive optical plate built into the frames reflects the video from whatever microdisplay device is being used (LCD, LCOS, OLED) so that both eyes see one continuous image. So far no manufacturers have picked up this design, but we'll take one for a spin after a big meal if we ever get a chance, and let you know if we were able to keep our food down.

[Via EE Times and I4U]

Filed under: Displays, Wearables

LightVu HMD uses "NanoPrism" tech to eliminate "cyberstress" originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 May 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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