Just when you thought that future car tech isn’t approaching fast enough, MINI has revealed where it’s heading with augmented reality technology. This is not the first time that we have heard about Augmented Reality based tech, this motorcycle helmet does somewhat the same thing. However, MINI and its parent company BMW, are going one step further to make this already futuristic technology, even more sci-fi. Also, though this tech has “MINI” branding all over, it isn’t really made by them. The design of the glasses was done by BMW Designworks and the software behind all this seems be the work of Qualcomm.
The integrated head-up display (HUD) can be seen behind the front glasses.
The MINI Augmented Reality Vision glasses will be officially revealed the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show. One of the key people behind this interesting concept is Dr. Jörg Preißinger, project-manager MINI Augmented Vision, BMW Group research and technology. Dr. Preißinger says, “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. Working with several Qualcomm companies, we have created an interlinked system and augmented reality eyewear with a characteristic MINI design that revolutionise the experience both in and outside the vehicle. This prototype with its customised, interactive functions succeeds in fusing augmented reality with the brand’s trademark sense of lifestyle.”
These glasses can display navigation information and the car’s speed, amongst others.
MINI is also talking about the “see-through” technology of these glasses which would allow its users to have X-Ray vision, just like Superman. What this means is that the driver could look through the A-pillar of the car for example, and be able to see-through it as if it didn’t exist. This, along with a bunch of driver relevant information being projected on the glasses in real time, means that the driver never has to look at the instrument binnacle while trying to watch out for pedestrians or other vehicles. The glass can project crucial data such as the car’s speed, road speed limits, navigation information etc. within the driver’s field of view.
The see-through tech means that you can see things that would be concealed by your car.
The driver can also receive SMS messages and the system will be able to read-out the message, too. With the help of a camera mounted on the ORVM, the system can relay the images from the camera directly to the glasses, thus aiding in tricky parking situations. Jay Wright, Vice President of Qualcomm Connected Experiences, Inc. says, “We are proud to have helped develop a breakthrough augmented reality interface between eyewear and the automobile. MINI Augmented Vision offers a compelling example of what’s possible today, and what we can expect in the future.”
MINI will be showcasing this technology at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show.
Obviously, the “see-through” thing hasn’t yet been proven to be real, but that’s where MINI seems to be heading with their Augmented Reality Vision. This may be a prototype, but if these glasses were ever to make it into production, they could revolutionise driving for everyone. Of course, as long as they are compatible with your car and if one can afford to buy them. It would be interesting to see what this technology can actually do when MINI finally unveils it.