It looks like Apple wants to mix reality with a bit of augmented realism. This is the impression one gets as the tech giant recently announced that it has been granted a patent by the US Patent Office for its latest Augmented Reality mapping system that uses the iPhone’s sensors and hardware to overlay map and visual enhancements onto live video.
In a nutshell, the new technology combines the maps app with various digital information, such as street names, landmarks, points of interest, GPS-based data, and the like. This data is then mixed with bits taken from the accelerometer, digital compass, and gyroscope to help pinpoint the device’s exact location in space, alignment, and tilt. The result is embedding or overlaying live video or augmented feeds with info like the exact location.
While it may sound geeky, it can actually prove useful in everyday situations. For instance, one could easily find their destination more quickly as they not only have the exact location and directions but likewise a live or augmented video feed to help them out.
Of course, this is only the beginning. Imagine this being projected onto the windshield or infotainment screen of your car. This would really take navigation to the next level.
The latest Apple AR patent comes five year after the firm applied for the license in 2011. Now, it is getting closer to (augmented) reality.
