HP Inc. is looking to make virtual reality (VR) snacking a reality with the HP Opera Glass.
In a press release, HP Labs appended an extremely brief segment regarding a new concept called VR snacking. Basically, it’s a way for users to quickly switch between their monitor and 3D VR.
HP has the enterprise in mind when developing these new glasses. Jim Christensen, director of media and influencer relations at HP, described the following scenario:
“A designer is designing a new chair for a client. He builds a rough foamboard model. Based on the model, the designer drafts the chair in 3D CAD. The designer spends a long time working on the back of the chair, but he’s not sure if it makes sense at scale. VR would allow the designer to view the chair model at the right proportions, but it disrupts the workflow to put on all the gear and move to the dedicated VR space. HP Labs asked, ‘What if. . . Without leaving the desk, the designer grabs the VR Opera Glasses and looks through the VR view?’ The chair is virtually presented at full scale. The designer returns to 3D CAD and modifies the design. The designer can quickly – nearly seamlessly – switch from 3D CAD to VR without getting up or gearing up.”
From the statement, it sounds like HP is suggesting that VR view will run concurrently with desktop view, and anyone who wants to take a peek can do so without impeding workflow. It also introduces the potential for a quick VR collab session with real-time feedback. The headset will need some adjustments, perhaps forgoing the straps. HP showed a mock-up VR headset with a stick attachment.
HP also stresses that this is purely a proof of concept product and therefore has no pricing or official HP names.