Vision of the Future

            A new type of contact lens is being developed that has LEDs incorporated into them in order to provide a live display of information for the person wearing them. This can be seen at http://www.tomsguide.com/us/1-Pixel-Contact-Lens-HUD-implant,news-13298.html for an explanation of the concept.

            According to the researchers that are quoted at http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/2011/nov/23/digital-contact-lenses-come-into-focus, they are predominantly intending these devices to be used in the medical field for quick access to patient information under extreme conditions.

            However, this technology has the potential for wide spread use within the creative fields. An exhibit at the MOMA that can be seen at http://www.thecreatorsproject.com/blog/augmented-reality-art-takes-over-the-moma utilizes a technology called Augmented Reality. This technology makes it possible to use smart devices to see renderings of physical objects in places where they do not actually exist. The same technology is utilized in other methods seen at http://www.intomobile.com/2009/12/03/layar-3-0-puts-3d-objects-in-real-space-guides-you-on-tours-and-does-the-dishes/ where augmented reality is used to give tours, post advertising, and display art in public spaces.

            By combing the digital contacts with augmented reality it would be possible for people to function in a completely virtual environment while operating in reality. This would be particularly interactive if combined with nonphysical motion tracking keyboards.

            The full extent of this would be an empty room that people can enter and sit down at a table. To an outside observer the person would be sitting in an empty room. But, to the person wearing the contacts the room could be decorated in any way they desire. It could be a tropical rainforest, a prohibition era speak-easy, or anything else the imagination could create. A room full of people staring at a blank wall could be watching a live performance of their favorite singer.

            With this technology entertainers could literally perform in multiple locations around the world at the exact same time.

            But, all things come with a price. And in the modern age that price is usually an abundance of advertising. An example can be seen at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/acrossair-augmented-reality/id348209004?mt=8

            While the technology presents amazing opportunities for both science and the arts, it also presents the opportunity for commercials to be broadcast directly onto your eyeball. Everywhere you look you see advertisements scrawling by in your peripheral vision.

            But, as with any technology we must take the good with the bad. And, the possibilities for the creative advancement that will be possible a definitely worth the minor inconveniences that will pay for the technology to become a reality.