Spatial Computing isn’t really a new concept…
Spatial computing is a rapidly emerging field that combines computer science, engineering, and design to create new ways for humans to interact with the world around them. It is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR).
Is Spatial Computing a new concept?
Spatial computing is based on the idea that we can use computers to augment our natural ability to perceive the world around us. By overlaying digital information in the real world, spatial computing can create new ways to learn, work, and play.
For example, AR can be used to provide instructions for assembling a product or to overlay a map of a city onto the real world. VR can be used to create immersive simulations of real-world or imaginary environments. And MR can combine the best of both AR and VR, allowing users to interact with both digital and physical objects in the same space.
Spatial computing is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the world around us. In the future, spatial computing could be used for a wide range of applications, including education, healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment.
Basic Features of Spatial Computing:
3D Technology
Spatial computing is based on the use of 3D technology to create immersive experiences. This means that users can interact with digital information in a way that is more natural and engaging than traditional 2D interfaces. For example, AR apps can overlay digital information onto the real world, allowing users to see instructions, directions, or other data overlaid on top of their surroundings. VR headsets can create immersive simulations of real-world or imaginary environments, allowing users to feel like they are actually there.
Natural Interaction
Spatial computing allows users to interact with digital information in a natural way. This means that users can use their hands, gestures, and voice to interact with digital objects. For example, AR apps can be used to control objects in the real world by simply pointing at them or by using hand gestures. VR headsets can be used to interact with digital objects by reaching out and touching them.
Immersive Experiences
Spatial computing can create immersive experiences that allow users to feel like they are actually in the environment. This is because spatial computing combines 3D technology with natural interaction to create a more realistic and engaging experience. For example, VR headsets can be used to create immersive simulations of real-world environments, such as a battlefield or a city. This allows users to experience these environments in a way that would not be possible with traditional 2D interfaces.
10 industries where spatial computing is being used
Education
Spatial computing is being used to create immersive learning experiences that allow students to explore different subjects in a more engaging way. For example, the app Google Expeditions allows students to explore different parts of the world through virtual reality. The app Instructables allows students to learn how to build things by following step-by-step instructions that are overlaid on top of real-world objects.
Healthcare
Spatial computing is being used to train surgeons and to provide remote assistance to patients. For example, the app Augmedix allows surgeons to view 3D images of patients’ anatomy during surgery. The app HoloLens allows doctors to see digital instructions overlaid on top of physical objects, which helps them to perform procedures more quickly and accurately.
Manufacturing
Spatial computing is being used to improve the efficiency of assembly lines and troubleshoot problems. For example, the app HoloLens allows engineers to see digital instructions overlaid on top of physical objects, which helps them to assemble products more quickly and accurately. The app Sight Machine uses computer vision to detect defects in manufactured products, which helps to improve quality control.
Retail
Spatial computing is being used to help customers find products in stores, provide personalized recommendations, and create more engaging shopping experiences. For example, the app IKEA Place allows customers to see how furniture would look in their homes before they buy it. The app Amazon Go uses computer vision to track customers as they shop, so they can pay for their items without having to wait in line.
Logistics
Spatial computing is being used to track shipments, optimize routes, and plan deliveries. For example, the app Wayfair View allows customers to see how furniture would look in their homes before they buy it. The app Waze uses real-time traffic data to help drivers find the fastest route to their destination.
Construction
Spatial computing is being used to plan projects, visualize designs, and coordinate with contractors. For example, the app BIM 360 allows architects to collaborate with engineers and contractors to create a 3D model of a building. The app HoloBuilder allows construction workers to see digital plans overlaid on top of physical objects, which helps them to build more accurately.
Oil and gas
Spatial computing is being used to explore oil and gas, monitor pipelines, and troubleshoot problems. For example, the app Petrel uses 3D visualization to help geologists explore oil and gas. The app Predix uses machine learning to monitor pipelines for leaks and other problems.
Defence
Spatial computing is being used to train soldiers, to simulate combat scenarios, and to plan operations. For example, the app Virtual Battlespace 3 allows soldiers to train in realistic virtual environments. The app One World Terrain provides a 3D map of the world that can be used to plan operations.
Entertainment
Spatial computing is being used to create new forms of gaming and virtual reality experiences. For example, the game Half-Life: Alyx is a VR game that allows players to explore a realistic and immersive world. The game Pokémon Go uses AR to allow players to catch Pokémon in the real world.
Spatial Computing In Apple’s View
Spatial computing is Apple’s vision for the future of computing, where the real world and the digital world are seamlessly blended together. Apple believes that spatial computing will revolutionize the way we interact with computers, making it more natural, immersive, and engaging.
Apple’s spatial computing platform is called VisionOS, and it is based on the following key principles:
Spatial awareness: VisionOS is able to understand the physical environment around it, including the objects in the environment and their spatial relationships. This allows VisionOS to overlay digital information onto the real world in a way that is both accurate and immersive.
Natural interaction: VisionOS allows users to interact with digital information in a natural way, using their hands, gestures, and voice. This makes it easier for users to focus on the task at hand and to get more done.
Privacy: VisionOS is designed to protect user privacy. All data collected by VisionOS is encrypted and stored locally on the device. This ensures that users’ data is safe and secure.
What’s next for spatial computing?
As previously mentioned, spatial computing encompasses the integration of various XR (Extended Reality) elements. While the terminology may be unfamiliar, it should not detract from the concept that has been discussed thus far. For a deeper understanding of how spatial computing will be advanced, I encourage you to explore my blog posts on topics such as WebAR and other use cases in VR (Virtual Reality). These resources will provide valuable insights into the subject matter.
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