Hands-Free Videophone combines augmented reality with glasses
Augmented reality glasses may have lost some steam over the past few months, but that does not mean they are disappearing from the horizon of the commercial market. NTT Docomo, a leading mobile network operator with a keen interest in NFC technology, has developed a new head-mounted augmented reality device called the Hands Free Videophone. The device enables users to receive video calls without having to rely on any kind of handheld device. The Hands-Free Videophone is part of Docomo’s ongoing research and development project concerning high-tech glasses.
Device capable of creating digital video based on user’s face
The Hands Free Videophone is equipped with three cameras that are used to capture a user’s face. The cameras capture several pictures, which are combined in real time and converted into a video, which can then be sent to another device. In its current state, the Hands-Free Videophone and produce high definition images and videos, but the device’s cameras and augmented reality system are not yet powerful enough to render complex movements, such as those seen in the mouth during speech.
Device may have a future amongst traveling business professionals
The device is designed to create a digital video based on the face of its wearer. As such, the device will be completely invisible on the digital representation of the user when conducting a video call. This may be a welcome feature for those interested in augmented reality but turned off by the often bulky designs of head-mounted technology. Docomo believes that the Hands-Free Videophone could eventually find a great deal of use amongst the business community, especially those who frequently travel for work.
Development to accelerate in near future
NTT Docomo is committed to the continuous development of the Hands Free Videophone. The device is currently in the prototype stages of development, but Docomo believes that its work on the project will begin to accelerate within the next few months. The company is currently focused on improving the video rendering capabilities of the device so that more detailed videos can be produced.
