Magic mirrors are showing up in New York City. These are not the kind found in fairy tales, however, though the technology they use may seem like something out of science-fiction. Engineers from the New York Times Company’s research and development lab have built a new mirror that makes extensive use of augmented reality technology. While the mirror is still in the prototype phase, it shows just how far augmented reality has come and could be telling of future products making use of the technology.
The mirror makes use of Microsoft’s famous Kinect platform, which seems to be getting more use from augmented reality developers than for gaming. The platform’s motion sensors are mounted at the top of the mirror, which itself is a Philips Mirror TV. Along with a reflection of the person standing in front of it, the Kinect renders a number of digital displays to accompany the reflection. These displays range from simple advertisements to social network updates and even a toned down version of a virtual fitting room through which users can try on clothes.
The displays on the mirror are fully interactive and can be swept away with a simple batting of the hand. What is displayed can be customized, allowing users to tailor their AR mirror to their tastes. The mirror also makes use of voice recognition software so that users can have control over the virtual displays if their hands are busy.
