Apple Patents Transparent Display Technologies With Overlay

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Navigating with onscreen maps is already interesting enough, but Apple might have something better in the works. Recently published patent filings indicate that Apple might be working on augmented-reality assisted display technologies.

The technology involves two patents. The first one  involves using several location and situation-detection technologies to determine the user’s position relative to objects in the real world. For example an iPad can be held against a structure, path or object, and the screen can show overlays with information, like descriptions and structure (or building) names. When the devices is moved, the camera view changes, and so will the information overlays.

The second patent is even more complicated, but will make augmented-reality more interesting. This involves the iPad having a transparent display, on which the user actually sees the object being identified. The screen will then incorporate videos, imagery or other elements that can help the user better-interact with real-world objects.

This kind of technology would be useful in situations like touring or going around museums, although the applications are wide-ranging. Apple’s patent filing says a screen can be rendered opaque or transparent depending on the need. Current AR applications do exist, such as Layar, but Apple’s AR ideas takes things a step further.

Will we see this in future iPhones, iPods and iPads? This is no sure thing yet, but Apple seems to be optimistic with the capabilities of AR and applications thereof.