What is holding back spatial tech?
Spatial computing, encompassing technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR), has long promised a technological revolution. Yet, despite years of anticipation, widespread adoption remains elusive. Four primary factors are holding us back: technology, inclusivity, acceptability, and productivity. Significant advances in these areas are essential for achieving the full potential of spatial computing.
Technological Challenges
Current spatial computing hardware is bulky, uncomfortable, and often fails to deliver the necessary performance. High-resolution displays, wide fields of view, and responsive systems are critical for an immersive experience but require enormous computing power. This often results in heavy, tethered headsets or standalone devices that compromise on performance. Additionally, the challenge of accommodating users with various vision needs remains significant. Integrating prescription lenses for VR headsets is a complex issue, as headsets need to ensure that all users, regardless of their ophthalmic prescriptions, can see both virtual content and the real world clearly. Until these issues are resolved, spatial computing will likely remain limited to niche markets and early adopters.
Inclusivity
Inclusivity is a major concern for any new technology, and spatial computing is no exception. Human diversity in vision, facial structure, and cognitive preferences presents significant design challenges. For example, there are over 50,000 possible prescriptions for glasses, and headsets must accommodate this wide range of needs. This is where the integration of prescription lenses for VR headsets becomes crucial, ensuring that all users can comfortably and effectively engage with these devices. Additionally, different people have different preferred modes of learning and interaction. While spatial computing can offer new interaction modes for those who struggle with a keyboard or the limited size of a desktop monitor, it must not alienate those who prefer traditional methods. The challenge is to create devices that are accessible and comfortable for everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive differences.
Acceptability
The "nerd factor" is a significant barrier to the adoption of spatial computing. The appearance of face-worn technology plays a crucial role in whether people feel comfortable using it. Google's failed launch of Glass, and the subsequent backlash, highlights the importance of visual acceptability. VR headsets, which obscure the user's eyes and prevent social interaction, exacerbate this issue. The awkwardness of not being able to gauge a person’s reaction when they are hidden behind a headset further hampers adoption. Overcoming these barriers requires a focus on aesthetics, user experience, and ensuring that technologies like prescription lenses for VR headsets are seamlessly integrated without compromising style or comfort.
Productivity
Productivity is perhaps the biggest challenge for the adoption of spatial computing. While VR and AR are exciting technologies, their real-world applications often fall short of existing solutions. For example, VR-based conference calls or training sessions may be novel but are not necessarily more effective than traditional methods. Some promising areas do exist, such as head-up displays for pilots and drivers, which could improve safety by projecting useful information directly into the user's field of view. But even here, optical and usability challenges remain, particularly in ensuring clarity for all users.
Spatial computing could revolutionize how we interact with technology, offering more intuitive methods for data entry and information consumption. For example, it could replace the keyboard, which is cumbersome for languages with large character sets, with more natural input methods. Additionally, spatial computing technologies could lead to innovations in eyewear, such as glasses that automatically adjust focus based on the user's needs, whether for reading or distance vision.
The Path Forward
Realizing these possibilities will require significant collaboration across the tech industry. Companies like Apple, Meta, and others will need to lead the charge, but they must also listen to their customers and work with smaller, innovative companies. Industry events like the SPIE AR/VR/MR summit and the Augmented World Expo (AWE) provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Alliances and research projects, such as the AR Alliance and POPULAR, offer frameworks for developing solutions to the challenges facing spatial computing.
Success in spatial computing will depend on an open approach to innovation and a willingness to collaborate. No single company can overcome these challenges alone. The industry must work together to push the boundaries of what is possible and to ensure that spatial computing finally achieves its long-promised potential.