Apple’s next iPhone might have a lot in common with Google Glass

Google Glass iGlass

At the last WDC, it became clear that Apple is ready to dive into the Augmented Reality (AR) waters. Which begs the question, how will the Apple use AR; a sector that entails using a screen to overlay digital objects onto the real world? Steven Milunovich, a UBS Securities analysts thinks Apple is about to create its own version of the Google Glass as cited by The Washington Post.

We all know that despite of all the great capabilities Google Glass had (or has), it is far from being said a success. At least not in the measures Google as a company is know for! That aside, Apple has already demonstrated its capabilities in the AR waters; it has used an iPhone to overlay interactive board game onto a real table.

Milunovich has suggest ten additional applications Apple could have in the AR space. Some of which Apple has already implemented, like AR in gaming and retail industry. Milunovich see more Apple AR application in job training, medical diagnosis, facial recognition, and directing people to safety in the event of an emergency. More or less like how Google Glass helped firefighters find the fastest exist inside a building.

Emergency first aid, a combination of remote healthcare and instantaneous education, could save lives. There are legal issues that would need to be overcome but seem solvable,” wrote Milunovich.

He further says that Apple could create an iGlass and try to succeed where Google failed. Especially given the recent advancements in headset technology, coupled with Apple’s classic abilities for innovation. Milunovich see the iGlass becoming appealing even to the non-geeks.

The International Data Corporation released a forecast this week that suggest that both AR and Virtual Reality (VR) market will grow from the 10 registered in 2016 to 100 million by the year 2021. Although VR will slightly overtake AR market, most consumers will – more often than not – be introduced to the concept via their smartphones.

At the last WDC, Apple introduced a tool for AR that opens a range of possibilities for the developer community. The company’s CEO, Tim Cook once said that AR is “a big idea like the smartphone.”

The next iPhone has to be big on VR and AR

Now that Apple has shown interest in AR and VR, it is expected its 10th-anniversary iPhone will impress in these departments. Although fierce competition is to be expected.

Already users have the option of going for OnePlus 5 that is currently receiving all the hype. The device comes packed with premium power and the simplicity of Android at just $479. A price tag that could be half the price of the rumored next Apple’s flagship iPhone. It is already much more affordable than the current iPhone 7 which starts retailing at $769.

Miunovich argues that scoring good in the AR department could be what set the next iPhone apart from its rivals. He suggests that Apple needs a new design approach to AR. Miunovich fronts the idea of the iPhone screen being made a tool that makes the user more aware of the real world. As opposed to current smartphone screen that actually distracts users from the real world.

(We) can picture the phone looking like a clear piece of glass when looking through the camera. Rather than staring down at a screen while we walk across the street or stand in line, we would be far more engaged with the world around us.” wrote Miunovich.

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