Spatial computing emerged as a game-changer in 2023, with major tech players, including Apple, leading the charge. While the term was introduced to the world at large, the concept of spatial computing is still a relatively new territory for many. Essentially, it involves the use of wearable displays, sensors, and user interfaces that respond to hands, eyes, and voice, creating a more immersive computing experience.
The introduction of Apple’s Vision Pro in 2023 signaled a significant step towards fully embracing spatial computing, with its emphasis on a more natural, user-friendly interface. However, despite the excitement surrounding this new technology, it’s evident that most devices currently labeled as spatial computers fall short of replacing traditional laptops or revolutionizing computing altogether.
The shift towards hybrid work models has become increasingly evident, with employees expressing a preference for a blend of remote and in-person work. This has raised the need for technologies that facilitate virtual collaboration, particularly for remote workers. The impending release of Apple’s Vision Pro in 2024 is poised to address this need, offering a spatial computing platform that enables navigation in virtual and augmented spaces using more natural interactions, such as eye movements, hand gestures, and voice commands.
The potential impact of Vision Pro extends beyond personal use, as it could catalyze the mainstream adoption of 3D collaboration. While the current price point may be a limiting factor, experts anticipate that Apple’s future iterations may address this, making technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) more accessible to a broader audience. As Blaine Brown, director of machine intelligence innovation at Diversified, emphasizes, Apple’s entry into this niche market has the potential to propel spatial computing into the enterprise realm, opening up new possibilities for businesses and professionals.
The landscape of spatial computing is set to undergo significant evolution in 2024, with the potential for more affordable and refined devices that blur the lines between virtual and physical environments. As the momentum towards hybrid work models grows, the demand for seamless virtual collaboration tools and immersive experiences is only set to intensify, making spatial computing a key area to watch in the coming year. With major players such as Apple entering the fray, the stage is set for spatial computing to revolutionize the way we work, interact, and experience technology in the near future.
