Apple hire may hint at HUDs, body networks

Apple in a low-key move has hired Richard DeVaul for what may indicate the long-term direction of its devices. The AWare Technologies founder has been a Senior Prototype Scientist at the company since January and is best-known for his doctorate work at MIT, where he specialized in wearable computer technology. Among his developments are a heads-up display that provides subtle memory clues and a "body-worn network" that would use a set of nodes to provide environmental and navigational data to the wearer.

DeVaul also may have drawn Apple's notice through StepTrakLite, a fitness app for the iPhone that provides an accurate pedometer without needing a sensor like the Nike+iPod adapter. His experience includes mobile devices as a whole and plays into Apple's strategy.

While there is no sign that Apple will necessarily use its new hire for wearable Macs or iPhone/iPod devices, the move is likely an effort to guide broader design at the company. As a prototype creator, DeVaul is likely to be one of the few to work directly with Jonathan Ive and Steve Jobs and to see Apple products at their very earliest stages. [via Computerworld]

By Electronista Staff