Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2012, highlighting the release of the Epson Moverio BT-100, an early iteration of wearable 3D display technology powered by Android.
The Moverio BT-100 is a high-resolution, wearable 3D goggles system from Epson. The Moverio is fully capable of producing a bright virtual image completely equivalent to a massive 80-inch display viewed from 16.4 feet away. The portable controller and lightweight headset allow users to securely browse, shop, and stay constantly connected while still being physically part of their surrounding environment.
Powered by Android
It runs on a robust Android 2.2 platform with full Adobe Flash 11 support. The Moverio’s Wi-Fi connectivity, paired with nearly 6 hours of solid battery life, easily lets you stream movies from sites like YouTube, listen to your favourite music, check your email, play games, book tickets, or research exciting new restaurants from virtually anywhere life takes you.
Imagine playing an immersive online flight simulation game one minute and the next minute flying a real-world drone plane while simultaneously viewing the live video feed from the drone’s onboard cameras prominently projected right in front of your eyes as a massive 80-inch perceived image.
Projecting Digital Images
The Moverio lets users boldly project digital 3D images directly into their actual physical environment. The arms both contain incredibly small pico projectors that actively aim bright images onto tiny mirrors located in each lens. The glasses can effortlessly show either 2D or 3D content on a small, high-definition screen. The glasses cleverly include 1GB of onboard storage capacity plus a MicroSD card slot (a 4GB card is included in the box).
Navigation and Controls
Controls are entirely managed through a wired remote unit featuring a smooth touch pad and the standard Android navigation buttons. It smoothly lets you securely access digital content from a wide variety of sources, including the built-in gallery and music apps. Epson regularly publishes the kernel and an official SDK, but independent developers will have to formally submit custom apps directly to the company for strict consideration.
When it is finally time to relocate, simply slip the glasses back into the included protective carrying case. The stylish, durable case (specifically designed to fit nicely inside your laptop bag), a dedicated battery charger, and comfortable earphones to properly enjoy Dolby Mobile virtual surround sound are all included in the package.
The sides of the glasses are semi-transparent, so you can clearly still see what is happening in the real world if needed, without getting completely distracted by the digital overlays.
