Microsoft invents projector eyewear for Xbox and beyond
March 21, 2012
Illustrations from Microsoft's patent show the rough schematics for both a helmet-based display and one embedded in a pair of glasses (credit: Microsoft)
Patent Bolt has discovered that Microsoft has been secretly working on a video headset since September 2010.
A New Microsoft patent reveals that they’ve been working two styles of headset: an aviation styled helmet aimed at Xbox gamers, and one that resembles a pair of sunglasses for use with smartphones, MP3 players and other future devices.
In the patent., Microsoft states that a compact display system may be coupled into goggles, a helmet, or other eyewear. These configurations enable the wearer to view images from a computer, media player, or other electronic device with privacy and mobility. When adapted to display two different images concurrently — one for each eye — the system may be used for stereoscopic display (e.g., virtual-reality) applications.
Comments (7)
by Gary Ehlenberger
What will be the RF cumulative effect on the eyes?
by Sean D
The chance of a next gen console by 2013 are slim at best. Most shareholders and market analysts expect 2014, and even 2015 is more likely. Besides, devices like these and Kinect aren’t released simultaneously, but rather as an add-on to the current generation systems.
by Atmic
I think both the helmet and the glasses have their place. The glasses are great for more comfortable mobility, but a helmet would be unbeatable for complete immersion, perhaps with surround sound — sensory focus, if you will
by Joe
Would be great for flight games since this is already in use by the military. Since XBOX 360 is the dominate video game console and the next version is due out in 2013 this could be a killer app for it.
by geter p
I hope they just go with the glasses and not that stupid helmet.
by Atmic
YES! Finally! I’ve been enthralled by VR since I was a kid. Even if Microsoft’s product isn’t any good, it’ll force Sony to put whatever one they’ve been working on out in the open (they already demo’d a prototype headset a while back), and possibly Nintendo later at some point — all of which would stimulate the PC market for VR Headsets. Fantastic news.
by peter g
this will be so uncomfortable to game with