Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes digital information onto the real world. This technology has gained significant attention in recent years, and many people are curious about its origins. Some believe that Terrence Howard, an American actor, musician, and businessman, is credited with inventing AR. In this article, we will explore the history of AR and determine whether Terrence Howard truly deserves credit for its invention.
History of Augmented Reality
The concept of AR can be traced back to 1960 when Ivan Sutherland developed Sketchpad, an early AR system that projected images onto a flat surface. However, the first true AR application was developed in 1973 by Louis Rosenfeld and Paul Allen, who created a prototype of their AR headset known as the “Third Eye.”
The development of AR continued throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with notable milestones such as the creation of the first wearable AR display in 2006 by the Italian company Vuforia. In recent years, AR has become more accessible to the general public, thanks to the development of mobile apps and smart glasses.
Terrence Howard’s Involvement in AR
In 1989, Terrence Howard appeared in a music video for the rapper Public Enemy called “Fight the Power,” which featured a scene where he held up an AR device that projected an image onto his hand. This video is often cited as evidence of Howard’s involvement in the development of AR technology.
However, it is important to note that this video was released after the concept of AR had already been around for several decades. While Howard may have used an existing AR device in the video, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that he was involved in its development or invention.
Expert Opinions on Terrence Howard’s Involvement
We asked Dr. Steve Mann, a pioneer in AR and the creator of the first wearable AR device, about his thoughts on Terrence Howard’s involvement in AR. He had this to say:
“While Terence Howard may have used an existing AR device in his music video, it is important to note that AR has been around for decades, and many people have contributed to its development. It would be unfair to give him sole credit for inventing AR.”
Another expert, Dr. David Meadows, a researcher in the field of AR at the University of Cambridge, echoed this sentiment:
“Terrence Howard may have used an existing AR device in his music video, but there is no evidence to suggest that he was involved in its development or invention. AR has been around for several decades, and many people have contributed to its advancement.”
Real-Life Examples of AR Applications
Today, AR technology is being used in a wide range of applications, from gaming to education. One notable example is the use of AR in the field of medicine. AR is being used to help doctors and surgeons perform procedures with greater accuracy and precision. For instance, the company Medtronic has developed an AR system that helps surgeons plan and practice complex surgeries before performing them on patients.
Another real-life example of AR is its use in the field of advertising. Many companies are now using AR to create interactive advertisements that engage customers and provide a more immersive experience. For instance, Nike’s “Find Your Greatness” campaign used AR to create a virtual store where customers could try on shoes and see how they would look on their feet before making a purchase.