Introduction
Augmented reality is a visual combination of natural objects and an artificially created virtual world. The virtual environment is formed by overlaying programmed virtual objects of the video signal received from the camera. The picture becomes interactive through the use of special markers (Olivier et al. 2020). Augmented reality technology is being intensively researched; it is currently used in medicine, advertising, military technology, and games. The optical tracking system is the basis of augmented reality technology (Olivier et al. 2020). The camera recognizes real-world markers and transfers them to a virtual environment, superimposes one layer of reality on another, and creates an augmented reality world (Olivier et al. 2020). The principle of creating augmented reality is determined by the technical capabilities of how it is implemented.
The means of creating augmented reality are mobile devices, phones, augmented reality glasses, TV or computer screens, and medical equipment. The optical scanner of the device reads the image of a real object; the device software identifies and analyzes the resulting image, selects or calculates the visible complement corresponding to the image, combines the actual picture with its complement, and outputs the final image to the visualization device (Olivier et al. 2020). The most convenient technology at the moment is AR technology based on markers. The technology based on unique markers, or labels, is convenient because it is easier to recognize by the camera and receives a more rigid reference to the place for the virtual model (Olivier et al. 2020). Based on this technology, augmented reality glasses are being developed. Augmented reality glasses have a built-in system that tracks eye movement and software that sums up the virtual and real picture allowing the user to create the illusion of a panoramic view.
One of the latest developments in the Nreal Air Augmented Reality glasses. The novelty is an improved version of the first model, enhancing the expansion of the virtual screen and adding compatibility with the iOS system. Nreal Air is similar to regular sunglasses but requires a constant connection to the smartphone to work. Technology is moving away from cameras, which can be perceived as an invasion of other people’s privacy. Nreal focuses on providing the user with virtual translucent screens for videos, apps, and games in a lightweight and compact frame. This study proposes the development of an application for smartphones based on Android and iOS, using augmented reality glasses. The application will focus on solving everyday tasks, broadcasting weather information, displaying a calendar, and showing a news feed based on user selection.
The Need for the Research
The study contributes to the development and research of augmented reality technology. The proposed application will use the technical capabilities of Nreal Air glasses. Since the device has abandoned cameras, its functionality is significantly limited. While it is ethically correct not to use cameras in augmented reality glasses, it substantially limits the device’s capabilities. Therefore, detailed development is necessary to provide users with the required options in limited functionality. Nreal Air is moving away from the standard augmented reality mock-up technology, which could be the subject of significant study and move the technology forward. The main benefit of moving away from cameras is that the technology is closer to everyday users, making it cheaper and providing a lighter body for everyday wear. The technology is considered simplistic and undervalued; further research is needed to justify this variation of augmented reality.
Hypothesis
The study hypothesizes that removing the camera from AR glasses makes them easier to use and can provide users with the experience they need. It is proposed to develop an application for smartphones to be used with Nreal Air Augmented Reality glasses. Technology without cameras makes the glasses accessible to a broader range of consumers at a lower price point. These glasses are more comfortable for everyday wear, and the application will focus on users who need to keep the necessary information in quick access. The application’s options are supposed to compensate for the minor functionality of Nreal Air Augmented Reality glasses due to the lack of a camera. The application is expected to use the basic information the user needs, displaying it on the screen in front of the user using glasses. The application’s functionality is supposed to include weather reports, a news feed, a navigator for drivers, and date and time – optional functions of the user’s choice.
RQ: Does the Nreal glasses technology, without cameras, meet everyday user tasks such as viewing news, date and time, weather, and route while creating an optimal application to meet user tasks and expectations from augmented reality?
Literature Review
The literature concerning the study of augmented reality is quite extensive. However, there is a large amount of research on prototyping technology, and the theoretical basis for studying cameraless glasses is scarce. Research by Danielsson et al. explores various applications for augmented reality glasses to facilitate multiple processes in everyday and professional life (2020). The article aims to study the use of glasses with augmented reality in production (Danielsson et al. 2020). The researchers conclude that further development of smart glasses is required to meet the working conditions, and Bluetooth and infrared sensors for industrial use are suitable technologies (Danielsson et al. 2020). The study concludes that at this stage of the existence of technologies, smart glasses are not sufficiently developed for use in professional activities. The work of Danielsson et al. is necessary for the study as it gives an idea of how new technological solutions can be applied to everyday use in the procedural sphere.
At the international conference concerning the study of augmented and virtual reality, the productional and ethical issues of using these technologies are considered. The study provides insight into how the most popular augmented reality technology functions (Olivier 2020). The marker technology is used in most technological innovations in the field of augmented reality (Olivier 2020). However, there is little information regarding markerless technology and cameraless glasses. Research does not focus on a given technology without expecting promising discoveries. The discussion at the conference provides the work with an idea of the current state of virtual reality technologies in principle and specifies the methods of operation of projecting devices.
Research is not only focused on the high-tech use of augmented reality technology. Han et al. highlight the popularity of augmented reality glasses in cultural tourism (2019). Although many studies have been conducted to determine the criteria for mobile application adoption, research on the adoption of innovative augmented reality glasses is limited (Han et al. 2019). The study conducts a qualitative survey of UK art gallery visitors who have used augmented reality technologies during their visit (Han et al. 2019). Although the experience has been primarily positive, further innovations are needed for implementation (Han et al. 2019). In addition, fears may cause resistance from potential users accustomed to the traditional perception of cultural experience. The study is used as an example of the integration of augmented reality technology into one of the everyday areas of life. It allows the research to build on the previous experiment on users’ perception of new technological solutions.
Modern scientific research seeks to identify the potential benefits of using augmented and mixed reality technologies in practical applications. A study by Yun et al. is developing a remote consent system using mixed reality technology during surgery (2022). The technology allows users to follow the process of operations and other medical interventions using augmented reality (Yun et al. 2022). Most caregivers and surgeons responded positively to the satisfaction and usefulness of telecons-ent (Yun et al. 2022). This study showed that remote consent with caregivers using VR glasses increased the pleasure of caregivers and surgeons and helped accommodate real-time results by tailoring the surgical plan with remote support (Yun et al. 2022). It is noteworthy that Nreal technology is used for the study. The study proves that using Nreal glass is possible for similar technological interventions (Yun et al. 2022). Despite the apparent simplicity of the technology, Nreal is consistent with the requirements for a modern augmented and mixed reality device. Yun et al. bring to work examples of the applicability of augmented reality technology to make life easier.
Technological solutions associated with augmented reality are under the scrutiny of researchers. Lee et al. explore augmented reality displays’ technical advantages and disadvantages (2019). Significant technological advances in this area will lead to the creation of ultra-thin displays that can be embedded in a design indistinguishable from sunglasses (Lee et al. 2019). As technology develops, it is necessary to find applications for it in everyday life. A study by Lee et al. is required to understand the technical side of the issue of developing an application for augmented reality and its implementation.
Research is also focused on the ethical side of the issue of using augmented reality technologies. Rauschnabel et al. in the study recognize the great potential of new forms of wearable devices that integrate virtual information into the user’s field of vision (2018). However, researchers know little about this emerging technology; expected utilitarian, hedonistic, and symbolic benefits drive consumer response to this advanced technology (Rauschnabel et al. 2018). The degree to which augmented reality glasses threaten the privacy of others can significantly influence the decision-making of users (Rauschnabel et al. 2018). It is necessary to take into account the ethical side of the issue when developing new devices in the field of augmented reality. Rauschnabel et al. bring an understanding of the moral side of the matter to the study and allows it to think about the possible reasons for users’ non-acceptance of new technologies.
Research Gap
Despite the extensive research base regarding artificial and augmented reality, there is ample scope for further research. The development of new technologies is proceeding at a rapid pace, but they are mainly aimed at simulating reality using a camera. However, such use in everyday or professional activities threatens to violate the privacy of individuals and the possible discomfort of users. Since this factor can become decisive for users, it is necessary to move towards the development of cameraless augmented reality technologies. The study suggests steps in this direction: all the required activities will be carried out using a mobile application, and glasses will become a projection tool. In addition, there is a lack of research regarding user perception and interaction with augmented reality. This study proposes to study the comfort of using augmented reality glasses in everyday wear. The research intends to complement the existing literature on the use of augmented reality as a solution to the everyday tasks of ordinary users.
Proposed Methods
During the application development, it is proposed to focus on daily tasks that Nreal Glasses can solve. The user interface displayed before the eyes is submitted to be as simple and concise as possible. Since many people are not accustomed to using augmented reality glasses regularly, it is necessary to make the interface unobtrusive. The set of functions for the application should be comprehensive enough and be able to adapt to a specific user. It is proposed to focus on standard procedures from quick access: date and time, weather based on geolocation, a news feed, and a navigator. Since Nreal glasses project the image from the phone screen, the development will not take much time. In addition, an application for everyday use that makes basic tasks easier is a good start for people to enter the world of augmented reality.
Limitations and Challenges
The process of developing and releasing an application for Nreal glasses is complicated by some restrictions. Firstly, it is associated with high competition in the market for such technological solutions. Against the background of other applications with more advanced functionality, this development may not be noticed. In addition, it is necessary to consider possible legal difficulties during the collaboration with Nreal. Finally, the anticipated market entry is challenging, as users are not used to using augmented reality glasses yet and are not widely used in the market.
Possible Solutions
For the successful development of an application, several essential factors must be taken into account: the novelty of the market and the limited functionality. Currently, Nreal Augmented Reality glasses are beginning to be distributed in a limited way. Augmented reality takes some getting used to, and many people may not be accustomed to functioning in special glasses. To prepare people to use the application, it is necessary to identify the pros. Firstly, the apparent user advantage will be the simplification of everyday tasks. The application will allow the users to view up-to-date information without pressing buttons or using a voice assistant. Secondly, the application is aimed at drivers and pedestrians who can build a route and project it in front of their eyes.
The limited functionality can be turned into an advantage while working on the application. To solve everyday tasks, a large number of functions are not required. The application is aimed at those who want to customize important information for personal choice and people who are just starting their interaction with augmented reality technology. Limited functionality will result in a simple and concise interface that most users can understand. In addition, it is vital to appeal to the fact that when using the application, the device will not need cameras, and the users do not have to worry about privacy issues.
Evaluation
The success of any technological development is linked to its acceptance by end users. That is why it is proposed to evaluate the work done based on user experience by using the beta version of the developed application. Firstly, the research needs to ensure that the application solves user problems and is comfortable to use. To evaluate the work performed, it is proposed to use a qualitative study employing interviews for a focus group using an application for augmented reality. Han et al. offer users an Augmented Reality Art Gallery Experience (2019). The assessment of this study is planned in the field of application: users will be asked to evaluate the convenience of using augmented reality in everyday activities. It is proposed to assess navigation use during automobile and pedestrian routes. In addition, users will appreciate the convenience of reading news and viewing weather reports while solving everyday tasks. After testing, users will undergo a short interview aimed at determining the success of the product.
Survey Example
- How can you evaluate the experience of using the augmented reality application during everyday tasks?
- How convenient is it to use augmented reality glasses while walking, driving, or doing household chores?
- Does Nreal glasses make everyday life easier?
- Is it necessary to expand the functionality of the application?
- How do you assess the possibility of obtaining the necessary options without using cameras in augmented reality glasses?
- Would you like to integrate this technology into your daily life?
- Is it essential for you to understand the ethical side of the issue of using new technologies?
The above questions will help to assess how successful research and development have been. Users will appreciate how limited functionality fits them; their responses will determine how promising the product is. This study must draw public attention to the issue of privacy and the need to focus on technology without using a camera in augmented reality glasses. It is essential to understand whether modern users can wear augmented reality glasses often enough during the day. To conduct the survey, it is proposed to assemble a focus group of 10 representatives of different age and professional groups. Diversity will allow testing of the technology in different living conditions. The application is aimed at a wide range of users, so it is necessary to test its ability to adapt to individual tasks.
Conclusion
The application for use with Nreal Augmented Reality glasses will be focused on solving everyday user tasks. Focusing on everyday use determines the functionality of future development: viewing the date and time, weather reports, news, and road routes. Despite the user’s possible rejection of the convenience of the new technology, the application is expected to be a success. Firstly, users will be attracted by the simplicity of the interface and the availability of technical devices. In addition, this technology proposes to abandon the standard system of augmented reality glasses with a camera to maintain individuals’ privacy. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the development will be carried out through a qualitative survey of 10 users who have used the new technology. The study aims to prove the possibility of augmented reality becoming part of everyday life, using simple devices and an ergonomic interface.
Reference List
DANIESSON, O., HOLM, M. and A. SYBERFELDT, 2020. Augmented reality smart glasses in industrial assembly: Current status and future challenges. Journal of industrial information integration, 20(1), 100-175.
HAN, D.I.D., DIECK, M.C. and T. JUNG.,2019. Augmented Reality Smart Glasses (ARSG) visitor adoption in cultural tourism. Leisure studies, 38(5), 618-633.
LEE, Y. H., ZHAN, T., & S. T. WU, 2019. Prospects and challenges in augmented reality Displays. Virtual real. intell. hardw., 1(1), 10-20.
OLIVIER, A. H., ZACHMANN, G., SAITO, H. et al. (eds.), 2020. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality: 17th EuroVR International Conference, EuroVR. 25–27 November, 2020, Valencia, Spain. Berlin: Springer International Publishing.
RAUSCHNABEL, P. A., HE, J., and Y. K. RO, 2018. Antecedents to the adoption of augmented reality smart glasses: A closer look at privacy risks. Journal of business research, 92(1), 374-384.
YUN, W. G., YOUN, J. K. and D. KO, 2022. Tele-consent using mixed reality glasses (NREAL) in pediatric inguinal herniorrhaphy: a preliminary study. Scientific reports, 12(1), 1-9.