Meta partners with Epson to tackle Google Glass
updated 07:10 am EST, Mon January 28, 2013
Startup Meta has partnered with Epson to break into the nascent wearable devices market. In contrast with Google’s Project Glass single display approach, Meta’s planned product will utilize dual 3D displays. It also aims to add further depth to the AR experience by incorporating 3D tracking for gesture control, which his highlighted in the video embedded below.
The Meta began as a project based on Epson’s Moverio BT-100 3D headset, which is similar to the Sony 3D Personal Viewer. However, unlike the Sony product, the Epson headset gives the user the option to remove covers and see through the displays. It was this capability that Meta has capitilized on, adding the 3D tracking capability. Epson was duly impressed with what Meta achieved and has signed a deal with Meta has it moves to release a beta product targeted at developers.
“When Meta came to us, we were really excited by their energy and their insatiable drive,” said Anna Jen, Director of New Business, Epson America. “We see endless applications for Meta’s product using Epson’s see-through wearable technology. We’re excited about the effects on productivity, media entertainment, retail, and of course, an amazing new class of games entering our real world.”
Meta founder Meron Gribetz says that the plan is to work with Epson to further develop the product with the addition of power sipping OLED displays and finding other ways to optimize its battery life. In addition to the backing of Epson, Meta has 15 graduate and undergraduate students from Columbia University developing the product. No timeframe has yet been put forward on when Meta will have a shipping product with the focus on getting the developer kits to market shortly. [via Slashgear]
