FLOSS Weekly 750: AI: Just Make It Normal - IQXR, AI and Open Source
Sep 20, 2023
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Doc Searls and Katherine Druckman talk with Michael "Hoff" Hoffman, Co-founder and CEO of IQXR, about differences between virtual, augmented, and mixed reality, challenges holding back widespread VR/AR, privacy concerns around augmented & virtual reality glasses, AI's role in spatial computing, and the mission to drive adoption of open standards and interoperability.
The challenges holding back widespread virtual/augmented reality include the lack of standards.
AI plays a significant role in spatial computing and enhancing efficiency.
Open standards and interoperability are crucial for the adoption of immersive technologies and empowering individuals.
Deep dives
VR and XR expert discusses mixed reality and spatial computing
In this podcast episode, VR and XR expert Michael Hoff discusses various topics including mixed reality, his company IQXR, and the importance of standards in spatial computing. Hoff, who has a background in VR and Microsoft's HoloLens, talks about the challenges and opportunities in the emerging industry. He emphasizes the need for open standards and open source solutions to accelerate the development and adoption of immersive technologies. The conversation touches on ergonomics, the role of artificial intelligence in spatial computing, and the potential of smart glasses in transforming human-computer interaction.
Empowering non-technical users and the future of personal AI
Hoff envisions a future where immersive technologies empower non-technical users to interact with virtual and real-world environments. He discusses the importance of designing intuitive experiences and the potential of low code/no code tools to enable users to create complex scenarios without coding expertise. Hoff also highlights the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and the need for standardization and open standards to build an ecosystem that empowers individuals. He encourages collaboration among industry players to develop open standards and open source solutions that prioritize user privacy and put users in control of their own data.
Challenges in achieving open standards and personal control over technology
Hoff acknowledges the challenges in achieving widespread adoption of open standards and personal control over technology. He mentions the need for companies to prioritize open standards for interoperability and collaborate on creating common language and protocols. While he mentions the progress made by companies like Microsoft in embracing open source, Hoff emphasizes the importance of creating universal standards across ecosystems. He cites the lack of a universal lingua franca as a barrier and expresses optimism about the possibility of building open standards that empower individuals and enhance their ability to control and personalize their technological experiences.
The promise of ergonomics in spatial computing
Hoff emphasizes the importance of ergonomics in spatial computing. He highlights the role of good design in creating intuitive user experiences and describes the ongoing experimentation in the field. Hoff mentions the challenge of building a larger vocabulary of gestures and interactions to improve efficiency and adapt to user needs. He discusses his team's focus on building tools for developers and creators to enhance ergonomics and reduce the cost of content creation. The conversation also touches on the potential of neural radiance fields and machine learning in rendering environments and addressing challenges related to real-world interactions.
Moving towards an open and interconnected ecosystem
Hoff expresses his commitment to open source, open standards, and collaboration to foster an interconnected ecosystem. He highlights the importance of building relevant, user-centric technologies and adopting open standards to achieve a broader impact. Hoff discusses the need for companies to focus on building proprietary technology but emphasizes the value of making it open and participating in standardization efforts. He shares his vision of a future where smart glasses become the primary interface and enable users to interact seamlessly with their technology, emphasizing the need for user control and privacy in this emerging landscape.
Doc Searls and Katherine Druckman talk with Michael "Hoff" Hoffman, Co-founder and CEO of IQXR, about open source in AI, immersive technologies, and much more - and what needs to happen before it all gets normal.
What are the differences between virtual, augmented, and mixed reality?
The challenges holding back widespread virtual / augmented reality, such as the lack of standards.
Privacy concerns around augmented & virtual reality glasses / headsets that record users.
AI's role in spatial computing.
Hoffman's mission to drive the adoption of open standards and interoperability.
