Helsinki-based Basemark and Bristol-based Ultraleap have announced a collaboration to enhance Augmented Reality Heads-up Displays (AR HUDs) in vehicles. Basemark provides automotive AR software, and Ultraleap specializes in hand-tracking and haptic solutions. By integrating Basemark’s Rocksolid AR software with Ultraleap’s haptic and hand-tracking technology, drivers can interact with AR content projected onto the windshield without taking their eyes off the road. This collaboration aims to make driving safer and more engaging by improving the user experience of AR HUDs.
The adoption of Augmented Reality Heads-up Displays (AR HUDs) are increasing as in-vehicle HMI systems have become more complex. AR HUDs can reduce this complexity and eliminate the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road, making driving safer. Due to the ability of AR HUDs to project essential information directly onto the driver’s line of sight, they play a significant role in reducing distractions caused by shifting focus between the road and in-vehicle HMI systems.
By integrating Basemark’s automotive AR software solution, Rocksolid AR, alongside Ultraleap’s mid-air haptics and hand-tracking solution, customers can further enhance AR HUD experiences. The integration enables drivers to interact with AR content directly on the windshield while haptics are projected onto their hands connecting and confirming their actions, eliminating the need to remove their eyes from the road. This allows drivers to confidently engage with various vehicle functions, including interacting with AR content generated by Rocksolid AR, such as accessing Point of Interest (POI) information.
“AR HUDs are rapidly being adopted by the automotive industry. We’re already witnessing several OEMs announcing their intent to incorporate AR HUDs into new vehicle models. By adding haptics and hand gestures to AR HUDs, it’s possible to make driving even safer I’m delighted that Ultraleap has become a part of our Rocksolid Ecosystem, as this collaboration allows us to jointly explore and develop innovative and safe automotive AR HUD experiences”, says Tero Sarkkinen, Founder and CEO of Basemark.
Jonny Codling, VP of Automotive at Ultraleap said: “Adding interactivity to AR HUDs is the next natural step in making these vehicle HMI experiences safer, more engaging and useful for vehicle users. With their impressive Rocksolid Ecosystem, Basemark has built an innovative community working at the very forefront of automotive AR design. We are proud to join this group to work with likeminded companies on the next generation of automotive AR HUD experiences and deliver first class interactivity through our haptics and hand tracking technologies.”
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