At a time when several tech giants like Google and Facebook are investing and foraying into the virtual reality, Intel is going with augmented reality. The chipmaker is working on an augmented reality headset based on its 3D RealSense camera technology, according to a latest report from the Wall Street Journal.
Intel could design the AR headset and market it to a manufacturer instead of producing the device itself, said the report. It further added that Intel has acquired at least five companies working on augmented-reality technology and has invested in and teamed up with with others. At present, details about the AR headset are scarce but it is sure that the company will leverage its 3D RealSense technology that uses cameras to measure depth and enable the computer to read facial expressions and gestures.
Intel is said to bring on board the RealSense team to help it build new markets in fields like drones and robots. Earlier this year, the company acquired drone maker Ascending technologies. With foray into AR, it looks like Intel comes in line with Microsoft who has the HoloLens headset, EPSON which recently showed off its Moverio BT-300 augmented reality smart glasses and others. It will be interesting to see what Intel has to offer with the AR headset.