While we can’t beam holograms directly into a room just yet, thanks to augmented reality tech, we can accomplish something pretty similar. AR has provided many fun and entertaining features via phones and the occasional pair of smart glasses. Nissan believes, however, that it’s time for AR tech to start performing some more practical functions. It’s time to soup up some cars.
At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, Nissan is bringing new car display technology that it is teasing as “invisible-to-visible,” or “I2V” for short. I2V’s purpose is to use data in and around a car to give a driver and passengers more information about the world around them. Utilizing cloud computing, I2V can produce a live-traffic holographic map right in the car’s cabin. Not only does it give you an idea of traffic and hazards, it can also provide an X-ray view of large buildings to show you where you need to go. Important info in the actual windshield like traffic signs and pedestrians can also be highlighted and enhanced.
I2V also features a special function currently known as the “Metaverse.” The Metaverse constructs 3D avatars within the cabin in one of the passenger seats. These avatars aren’t AI, but actual human beings operating remotely. Avatar users could act as driving coaches for new drivers, provide local directions in case the computer doesn’t know something, or even just give you someone to talk to on a long drive. Also, from promotional materials, it seems the avatars can appear as anime girls, because, well, what else would they be?
Nissan will be demonstrating I2V at the CES on January 8th. The tech isn’t actually ready yet, but you can experience it there via an AR-goggle-based presentation.
