BMW develops augmented reality glasses for drivers

PanARMENIAN.Net - Augmented reality glasses for drivers that render parts of the vehicle transparent to give an unobstructed view of external surroundings have been developed by BMW, the International Business Times reports.

The Mini Augmented Vision, unveiled at the Shanghai auto show, also offer a head-up display for navigation and an augmented parking feature that projects a rear-view mirror into the driver's vision.

According to BMW, the glasses offer a "revolutionary" display concept that provides enhanced comfort and safety.

"Mini Augmented Vision gives an insight into how intelligent connectivity between a Mini car and eyewear into which relevant content is projected might work in the future," Jörg Preißinger, project manager for the glasses, said.

"Working with several Qualcomm companies, we have created an interlinked system and augmented reality eyewear with a characteristic Mini design that revolutionize the experience both in and outside the vehicle. This prototype with its customized, interactive functions succeeds in fusing augmented reality with the brand's trademark sense of style."

Augmented reality glasses first came to prominence with Google Glass in 2013 but the search giant has since stopped selling the device to developers.

Other companies such as Sony and Microsoft have developed their own augmented reality glasses, while Apple is also rumored to be working on developing the technology.

Augmented reality glasses have yet to gain mainstream adoption but have found applications in several fields, from medicine to space exploration.

"We are proud to have helped develop a breakthrough augmented reality interface between eyewear and the automobile," Jay Wright, vice president of Qualcomm Connected Experiences, said. "Mini Augmented Vision offers a compelling example of what's possible today and what we can expect in the future."