The iPod, the iPhone, the iPad; all were innovative products that changed lifestyles. It seems that Apple is once again planning new ways of doing things. Rumors are circulating that Apple is planning to launch devices with 3D cameras as early as 2014.
AllThingsD reported on Sunday that an offer has been made by Apple to purchase PrimeSense, with an expected closing by the end of the week.
“I can say we are deeply involved with a couple of projects, and, yes, I think you will see 3D capabilities in a phone or tablet in 2014,” Tal Dagan, V.P. of PrimeSense told Forbes.
3D In Today’s Market
Some companies, such as Qualcomm, are currently working the software that will allow 3D sensor data to be used with mobile games and apps focused on augmented reality. Eventually, other smart devices could be utilized; from TVs, to the cars we drive, to systems designed to monitor the home in a three dimensional environment instead of a two dimensional space. Right now, small 3D scanners and printers are available and being utilized for the printing of replacement parts, novelty items, replicas, and even for medical applications.
The PrimeSense sensor itself is currently used in the Xbox Kinect. Under the Kinect’s watchful “eye,” gamers are able to control all of the action, movement, and play of their characters using their own body.
"PrimeSense has delivered an important component to the technology, helping us deliver revolutionary controller-free entertainment experiences in the living room," says Ilan Spillinger, Vice President of Xbox 360.
Siri’s New Eyes?
Right now, Siri, the personal assistant built into the iPhone, utilizes a natural language user interface to communicate with the owner of the phone. Apple already registered the trademark “iSight” in December 2012, and has been using the term since it was first introduced in 2003. The iSight webcam is used in the iMac and MacBooks, and the iPad and newer iPhones. Is it possible that a new 3D sensor, combined with iSight, plus other sensor data already being aggregated via the phone’s compass, gyroscope, and accelerator, might contribute to new senses for Siri? Of course it’s all speculation, but remember when the tablet was only a prop that we saw on Star Trek?
Editor's note: AllThingsD reports that on Sunday, Apple verified Primsense was purchased for an undisclosed amount of money. Their spokesperson said, "We can confirm the deal with Apple. Further than that, we cannot comment at this stage."
