In the latest edition of Plugged In, Harry McCracken, Fast Company’s Global Technology Editor, shares insights and reflections on his recent experiences in the realms of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR). As he delves into the rapidly evolving landscape, the narrative takes us on a journey from the immersive Apple Vision Pro headset to the vibrant atmosphere of MIT’s Reality Hack, an annual hackathon that brought together over 600 participants for a deep dive into the potential of XR technologies.
Exploring the XR Tapestry at MIT: Reality Hack serves as a testament to the ongoing experimentation and innovation within XR, a term encompassing various reality-altering concepts. McCracken underscores the early stage of development in this field, emphasizing its freshness as a canvas for unbridled experimentation. The absence of a universally accepted term, such as XR, VR, AR, or MR, suggests an industry still in the process of definition.
A Spectrum of Creativity: The hackathon’s final projects showcase a diverse spectrum of ideas born out of the collaborative efforts of participating teams. From a 3D-printed microscope simulating blood cells to a mixed-reality air traffic control interface, each project represents a unique exploration into the possibilities of merging the physical and digital worlds. One standout winner utilized sensors to empower individuals with missing limbs to control digital counterparts in virtual reality.
The Power of Raw Innovation: What sets Reality Hack apart is its emphasis on rapid ideation and execution. Strict rules against pre-event planning ensured that all projects were conceived and developed during the hackathon, fostering a sense of communal spirit and creativity. The teams leveraged accessible technologies such as Unity’s toolkit, Niantic’s AR platform, and open-source headsets, avoiding the need for high-end, costly solutions.
Contrasting Approaches: In drawing a comparison between Apple’s meticulously crafted Vision Pro and the hackathon’s nimble, resource-conscious approach, McCracken highlights the power of speed, openness, and affordability in driving innovation. The juxtaposition of Apple’s high-end, controlled ecosystem and the hackathon’s grassroots experimentation offers a nuanced perspective on the diverse trajectories of XR development.
Infectious Ingenuity and Future Prospects: The infectious ingenuity displayed at Reality Hack leaves an indelible impression, challenging preconceived notions about the potential of XR technologies. McCracken concludes by expressing a renewed sense of wonder and optimism about the future of technology, spurred by the boundless creativity witnessed at MIT’s hackathon.
As the XR landscape continues to evolve, fueled by events like Reality Hack, it remains an exciting frontier where innovation knows no bounds.