Magic Leap 2 headset to debut on Sept. 30

Source: Magic Leap

Magic Leap is ready to launch its latest mixed reality device. The Magic Leap 2 headset will debut on September 30 with a starting price of US$3,299 (around CA$4,301). It succeeds the 2018 Magic Leap, promising a smaller, lighter device with a broader field of view. The Magic Leap 2 will be available in three packages, with varying software support and intended use. 

That Base model will include the headset and a limited warranty. The US$4,099 (~CA$5,343) Developer Pro option gets development software tools and early access to software releases. But this is limited to internal development—not a full commercial product. And then, the US$4,999 (~CA$6,517) Enterprise edition will come with quarterly software updates and tools to manage deployment across an organization.

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LG Display is reportedly prepping work for Apple's 2nd-gen mixed reality headset

Concept render based on purported leaked information (Ian Zelbo)

While Apple's first-generation mixed reality headset hasn't launched yet, LG Display is reportedly preparing to supply micro OLED display panels for the next-generation model. The company is believed to be ordering deposition equipment for micro-OLED displays from Sunic System. The company supposedly plans to use the equipment to produce the displays for the headset. 

It's believed to be part of the supply chain for the upcoming headset, but it's not expected to supply the main screen. Sony is reportedly supplying that. LG's rumoured to be providing the regular OLED display panels for the outer indicator screen. For the next-generation headset, LG is supposedly hoping to take the orders from Sony. It could be a wise move for Apple, given that Sony indirectly competes with Apple thanks to its PlayStation VR headsets.

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An immersive experience with Windows Mixed Reality

By Sonya Davidson

It was an unlikely gathering, or so you would think, of women ready to explore what's new in mixed reality. When Microsoft approached me to see if I was interested in a personalize experience of the new Windows Mixed Reality with friends, I was curious. I also decided to go against the expected when they mentioned I could invite a few friends or family members along for the fun. 

You would probably expect me to bring my family of boys. Nah, they're too predictable. I already know they would be interested. So, I decided to bring a few other ladies to see just what would happen. After all, we all know that moms are the ones who are figuring out gifts this time of year. It may come as a surprise that each woman I asked to joined me JUMPED at the opportunity to see the latest technology. With varying knowledge of augmented reality and virtual reality, there was definitely a strong interest in learning more especially when we see potential of spending more quality time WITH our friends and families. 

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Patent shows new details about Facebook’s AR glasses

If you’re wondering what Facebook is doing in the augmented reality space, a newly published patent shows us the possibilities. The device is described as something that can “augment views of a physical, real-world environment with computer-generated elements" and "be included in an eye-wear comprising a frame and a display assembly that presents media to a user's eyes." It has what’s called a waveguide display with a two-dimensional scanner being developed by Facebook's virtual reality arm Oculus VR. The display could be used not just for AR but for virtual reality, mixed reality, or a combination of those three.

The display will make use of lasers, scanning mirrors, and other elements to display content. According to the patent filing, the lasers will emit light onto the lens displays and transform these into the images and videos you’ll be able to see. There might also be audio courtesy of connected speakers or headphones. While the patent might be here, this doesn’t necessarily mean we’re getting the device soon. As Mashable points out, Oculus’ chief scientist Michael Abrash spoke at F8 saying that always-on AR glasses are at least five years away. For now, we can just think about the possibilities.