Keynotes

The reality-replacing AR systems promoted in film and science fiction are both impractical and undesirable. In the course of 25 years of researching and living with mobile AR, my experience has shown that fashion, head weight, eyebox, speed of access, and social perception have proven more important than spatial resolution and field-of-view. Wearable computers with lightweight, small field-of-view, head-worn displays will enable compelling mobile augmented reality applications much sooner and be better accepted by the average consumer. In this talk I will present unexpected uses of wearables – systems that augment intellect and the senses; assist communication between humans and animals; allow control through silent speech and brain interfaces; and even teach wearers manual skills such as playing the piano without active attention. In the process, I will make the case that compelling applications can be made with lightweight systems that are on the verge of being possible in today’s market.