Depth sensing is the next important research direction for technologies such as virtual reality, and Apple seems to be very interested in it. Recently, the company’s patent for a so-called “deep scan engine” was exposed, and a light was introduced. Transmitters and scanners to determine the depth of the way.
Since 2012, Apple has successively registered a number of related technology patents, which clearly shows that they are very interested in this technology. From the patent picture, this technology seems to be prepared for the Mac, but we can also Imagine how it is used on the iPhone, and the latter may be more practical.
Depth maps are useful in many situations. They can not only generate more immersive images on mobile phones, but also help capture virtual reality content, or enhance game immersion. In addition to transmitters and scanners, Apple This system also contains a processor that can use the information gathered by the former to generate depth maps.
Apple is not the only technology company that is studying depth maps. The Spectra camera module developed by Qualcomm is equipped with the latest Xiaolong 845 processor, which can capture up to 10,000 depth points. Facebook is also working with RED to develop a Ultra high-end 360-degree camera that supports depth sensing and 6 degrees of freedom.
According to previous rumors, Apple may also be planning to launch an augmented reality device, or at least consider adding more augmented reality features to the future iPhone, so depth-sensing related technologies are very important to them.
Of course, it is entirely possible that Apple will not use this new technology. Their large-scale technology companies will register a considerable number of patents in case of need, but these technologies will not necessarily be applied to the product. But consider Until Apple has added depth sensing technology such as Face ID to the iPhone, it is true that they may continue to experiment. DigitalTrends