Mini reveals augmented vision technology

Mini has revealed its plans for the latest development in driver information systems. Mini plans to offer connectivity between augmented reality (AR) eyewear and the car through the augmented vision project. The technology uses eyewear to relay information through computer generated graphics and is similar to a head-up display in terms of functionality.

Mini Augmented Vision incorporates the Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor whose integrated system-on-chip (SoC) design includes the Qualcomm Krait quad core CPU that manages a clock speed of 2.3GHz per core, a Qualcomm Adreno 420 graphics processing unit (GPU) and digital signal processing (DSP) within a single chip. The system also features inertial sensors and cameras that are used for determining the position of glasses in the vehicle, but cannot be used to record photographs or videos. The glasses also get two stereoscopic HD displays (720p) for three-dimensional vision as well as WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS technology.

The driver can control certain functions by turning his head as well. For example, while parking, the glasses will show external camera views of the wheels when the driver turns his head toward a particular wheel. Eye-tracking or voice control have not been integrated yet, but Mini says they could be feasible additions in the future.