Wearable systems like this can be in the shops in just a year. The 3M projector used in this demo was made available only a year ago, but several phone makers have already started making projector phones. The next step is simply to add a mirror to the projector, attach a string so it can hang around the neck and start write some software for it.
It probably won't be as hugely successful as the iPhone, but for many users it will be very useful.
I remember seeing a wearable system from MIT Media lab in 1996 or so. They estimated $2,000 or so to build one and had a sort of HUD/video goggles, sort of like today's VR920. I think network connection was handled with GPRS...I think.
These innovations are what's going to drive artificial intelligence into the mainstream.
There is a lot happening in the background that we don't see (risk analysis, expert systems). But once this is in front of us and improving our lives, there will probably be a rapid increase in innovation as more people see the possibilities and a much higher economic incentive to do this type of thing.
Looks cool and I think possibly before wearable tech proliferates we'll use our iPhone type devices to do the same thing. iPhone would just need that intelligent infrared built in.
Interesting tech with endless useful possibilities!
It probably won't be as hugely successful as the iPhone, but for many users it will be very useful.