While virtual reality headsets remain less than popular, augmented reality is booming. Snapchat filters and augmented reality games are popular with millions of users. On a more practical level, augmented reality may be used for car repairs in the future. Enter Porsche’s Tech Live Look.
Porsche’s Tech Live Look
Porsche, known for their tech-mindedness and forward thinking, has developed a really interesting new augmented reality headset. It’s first application is as a quick-reference for Porsche mechanics. The headset allows them access to all the manuals and diagrams they could ever need. This type of cloud technology uplink is very sci-fi: imagine a mechanics who can see a swath of reference materials in his view as he repairs an engine.
Tech Live Look also allows Porsche technicians to assist mechanics in live time. Technicians will be able to see what mechanics see, walking them through repairs step-by-step. Drawing on the video feed, producing manuals in the peripheral and more will be possible with this technology. This, Porsche states, will lead to a 40 percent increase in productivity in their repair centers.
According to Porsche America CEO Klaus Zellmer, “It’s good for customers, because they get their car back sooner, and it’s good for dealers because they get that stall clear.” According the Zellmer, the cost of the headsets is offset a few days after they are implemented, thanks to the great turnaround they provide for repair centers.
When is this Coming?
Many Porsche dealerships have already signed up for this revolutionary tech. While Porsche has stated that only their mechanics and technicians will have use of it, this is great news for Porsche owners and augmented reality enthusiasts. The headset is reminiscent of Google Glass, but with some key differences.
Where Google Glass was more for notifications, sporting small displays in the peripheral, Porsche’s headset is a full display. Tech Live Look is a real-time connection with a technician, not an AI or automated program. While the tech is staying in Porsche dealerships for now, it suggests some interesting things to come.
The Future of Augmented Reality
Live linking to an experienced instructor has some obvious applications other than just car repair. The first thought one has when contemplating this technology is surgery. An expert in a certain surgical field may be unable to be physically present for a procedure but could use an AR headset to help direct a less experienced surgeon.
Similarly, a pilot experiencing unusual threats in the air might be aided by a more experienced expert who could use similar technology to direct them in real time. All these scenarios and more could be further aided when AI technology sees further advances. A live technician is great, but in situations where there is no Internet connection, an AI could suffice. In fact, AI may even be more well-equipped to respond rapidly and instruct a user calmly and with focus.
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