Back in September, we found out that Google was working on an “augmented reality operating system” for “innovative AR devices.” A new report today suggests that Google is working on an AR headset with “Project Iris.” Citing sources familiar with the project, The Verge says Google is working on a headset that will enhance incoming video from an outward-facing camera with various graphics. That’s not the form factor of the glasses, you’ll see a screen with a current early prototype, similar to ski goggles. That said, it already has an internal battery and doesn’t need to be connected to a power source.
It is running an unspecified “custom Google processor” which may be based on or similar to Tensor. That’s because hardware chief Rick Osterloh said in August that Tensor is “the perfect foundation for making big improvements in AR.”
However, due to “power constraints,” Google reportedly plans to render “some graphics” in the cloud in its data centers and “deliver them into the headset.” Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said earlier this month that “Apple’s Metaverse headset is about 2-3 years ahead of competitors’ products in terms of computing power.” Of course, the company has a streaming experience from Stadia.
Meanwhile, Project Iris is said to be running Android at the moment, but that could change given the hiring of a new OS.
According to The Verge, Google hopes to ship in 2024, although work has only recently begun to ramp up. There’s no “clearly defined go-to-market strategy,” and it’s unclear if the device will be Pixel-branded, though “the Pixel team is involved with some hardware components.”
Google is very secretive about the Iris project, and today’s report cites the Bay Area work taking place in a separate building that “requires special keycard access and nondisclosure agreements.” There are currently 300 employees working on the job, but hundreds more will be hired.
As part of Google Labs, it’s overseen by longtime AR/VR head Clay Bavor. Former Google Assistant VP of Engineering Scott Huffman is working on Project Iris, along with the former head of Google Lens, the former CTO of Lytro, and the engineering director in charge of ARCore.
Complete News Source : 9TO5google
