The Augmented Horizon

More is happening in technology beyond just generative AI! Advancements in Extended Reality (AR, VR, Mixed Reality), Robotics, Quantum Computing, and HCI are redefining our reality. We keep you one step ahead of everyone else.

TL: DR - I sort through the best new tech news, so you do not have to!

Is Kling AI The Next Best Image & Video Generator?

We're diving deeper into virtual reality and artificial intelligence, and, wait for it, the possibility that we might all live in a giant simulation! I mean, how's that for a plot twist in our everyday lives?

From VR shoes that let you walk in virtual worlds to robots with blowtorches taking on garden weeds, it seems like the future is happening right now. And let's not forget the researchers bringing the actual Star Trek Holodeck to life. Plus, we've got some juicy insights on Google Glass 2 and its apparent lack of ambition.

But first, you've been told that you are what you eat, but now it's also what you wear. I'll discuss health tech.

BUT FIRST…It's Not Just About What You Put in Your Body Anymore, but What You Are Wearing

Traditionally, health and wellness have focused on diet and exercise. However, wearable technology is quickly becoming an equally important aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

From exoskeleton pants to fitness trackers and wearable sensors, these devices enhance physical performance, monitor health metrics, and aid in rehabilitation. They offer real-time data and feedback, helping individuals achieve their health goals more efficiently and effectively.

• Exoskeleton Pants: MO/GO and Arc'teryx have developed powered exoskeleton pants that boost hikers' leg movements, making treks easier and less tiring.

• Wearable Sensors for Athletes: These sensors provide real-time feedback to athletes, such as badminton players, improving their performance and technique.

• “Wellness Through Wearables”: Wearable tech has been shown to improve health outcomes by continuously monitoring vital signs and activity levels.

What is Coming Next?

• Augmented Reality (AR) Glasses: Display fitness data and safety alerts in real-time during workouts. AR glasses like the Xreal Air provide immersive HD visuals and interactive coaching, enhancing workout engagement and performance​ (TechRadar)​.

• Smart Fabrics: Monitor muscle activity and posture, providing instant feedback to prevent injuries. These fabrics integrate sensors that can offer real-time corrections, making workouts safer and more effective.

• Integrated Ecosystems: Homes that adjust lighting, temperature, and more based on your wearable data to optimize your well-being. These smart homes will interact with your wearables to create a personalized, health-focused environment.

Maintaining health is no longer just about diet and exercise. The technology you wear plays a crucial role in your overall wellness journey. Embrace the future of health with wearable technology—your body and mind will thank you.

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Former NASA Scientist: We Might Be Living in a Simulation!

A former NASA scientist has dropped a bombshell claim: we could all be living in a giant simulation. This eyebrow-raising theory suggests that everything around us might be a sophisticated computer program. Are we all just high-tech Sims?

Read more https://futurism.com/the-byte/former-nasa-scientist-experiment-live-in-simulation

VR Shoes: Walk the Virtual Walk!

Stepping into the future, VR shoes promise to take immersion to the next level. These innovative shoes aim to simulate real-life walking in virtual environments, making you feel like you’re truly there. Goodbye, reality; hello, virtual wanderlust!

Read more https://www.xrtoday.com/mixed-reality/what-are-vr-shoes-stepping-into-a-new-era-of-immersion/

Robots with Blowtorches: The Future of Weed Control

Meet the new sheriff in town: a robot equipped with a blowtorch designed to take down weeds. This fiery approach to gardening might just be the ultimate weed-whacking solution, bringing a whole new meaning to the term "scorched earth."

Read more https://techxplore.com/news/2024-07-robot-configured-stun-weeds-blowtorch.html

Meta's AI-Boosted Quest Headsets: Smarter Than Ever

Meta is turning up the AI dial on its Quest headsets. With the integration of AI, these headsets are set to offer even more immersive and intelligent experiences. It’s like having a brainy buddy right in your headset!

Read more https://www.fastcompany.com/91162492/meta-adding-ai-to-its-quest-headsets

Mikhail Solodovnikov’s Immersive Training: VR, AR, and AI Unite!

Dive into the world of Mikhail Solodovnikov’s cutting-edge training environments where VR, AR, and AI converge. These immersive technologies are revolutionizing training and education, making learning more interactive and engaging than ever.

Read more https://downbeach.com/news/2024/jul/25/mikhail-solodovnikovs-immersive-training-environments-with-vr-ar-and-ai/

OpenAI's SearchGPT: The Google Killer?

OpenAI is stepping up its game with the launch of SearchGPT, a new AI that directly challenges Google’s search dominance. With advanced AI capabilities, SearchGPT promises to revolutionize how we find information online. Google, watch out!

Read more https://www.tomsguide.com/ai/openai-launches-searchgpt-in-direct-threat-to-google-what-you-need-to-know

Star Trek's Holodeck: Now a Reality?

Researchers have used AI to recreate the iconic Star Trek Holodeck. This sci-fi dream come true could change entertainment and training, offering ultra-realistic simulated environments. Beam me up, indeed!

Read more https://scitechdaily.com/not-science-fiction-researchers-recreate-star-treks-holodeck-using-ai/

Google Glass 2: Vision Without Ambition?

A former Google executive has thrown shade on the rumored Google Glass 2, claiming the company lacks the vision and drive to push XR technology forward. Is Google’s augmented reality dream dead in the water?

Read more https://www.laptopmag.com/gaming/vr/google-has-no-real-vision-or-ambition-in-driving-the-xr-space-former-department-lead-pours-cold-water-on-google-glass-2-rumors

WORTH A WATCH

ChatGPT: The New Doctor in Town!

In a surprising study, ChatGPT emerged as the top-performing AI, scoring 98% on medical licensing exam questions, outshining competitors like Gemini and Grok.

AR Glasses: The Future Beyond Meta and Apple, CNET at AWE

From enhanced visual experiences to seamless integration with daily life, these AR glasses promise a future where digital and physical realities blend effortlessly. Discover how this technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with the world.

Interesting Jobs in XR & Tech

Coming soon! I am working with companies and recruiters in the space to add jobs. Do you have any? Please send me the details, and I will include them soon!

I’ve got a growing list from you and partners, although not all are in the extended tech space. If you want to reach out, please do so at the link above (I'm still setting up the process).

SALES & MARKETING

• Social Media Marketing Manager (B2B, Consumer)

• Director Growth Marketing (B2B, Consumer)

• Mid Market Sales Rep

• Manager Business Development

• Founding Marketing Leader

• Life Cycle Marketing Manager

PRODUCT & ENGINEERING

• Chief Product Officer

• Ops Founding

• Ops Leader Manager

• Talent Ops Operations Associate

• Junior Infrastructure Engineer

• Full Stack Engineer

• Senior Privacy & Security Engineers

• Founding Engineer

• Founding Engineers

• Senior Backend Engineer

• Senior Fullstack Engineer

Key Events Summer 2024

• VRTO - Toronto, Canada - June 2024

• SIGGRAPH - Vancouver, Canada - August 11-15, 2024

• F8 Refresh - Online - June 2024

• E3 - Los Angeles, USA - June 11-13, 2024

• VivaTech - Paris, France - June 12-15, 2024

• EuroHaptics - Nottingham, UK - June 10-13, 2024

• Metaverse Expo - Seoul, Korea - June 26-28, 2024

• Venice Film Festival - Venice, Italy - August 28-September 7, 2024

• AI & Big Data Expo World Series - Santa Clara, USA - June 5-6, 2024

• TechConnect World - Washington, DC, USA - June 17-19, 2024

• Auto.AI - San Francisco, USA - June 26-28, 2024

• AI4 2024 - Las Vegas, USA - August 12-14, 2024

• AI & Big Data Expo 2024 - Santa Clara, USA - June 5-6, 2024

• HCI International 2024 - Washington, DC, USA - June 29-July 4, 2024

Check out the running list of industry events and conferences for 2024.

Have any questions or additions?

Are there any issues or corrections? Just let us know.
Portions of this email were assisted by artificial intelligence.