Apple has acquired another company according to a recent report. The company in question is a Danish Augmented Reality startup called Spektral.
The deal has apparently cost Apple more than $30 million. Spektral specializes in software that makes realistic and accurate ‘cut’ out figures from backgrounds in videos and photos. This technology can be used in Augmented Reality environments to make these cut-outs appear more realistic. We heard previously that Apple has big plans for AR technology on devices like the iPhone, so this latest acquisition makes sense for the company.
Spektral’s Advanced Technology
Spektral’s technology is particularly noteworthy because it leverages advanced machine learning and computer vision techniques to achieve its impressive results. By using these sophisticated algorithms, Spektral can separate objects from their backgrounds in real-time, which is a significant advancement over traditional methods that often require extensive manual editing. This capability is not only useful for AR applications but also has potential uses in video conferencing, virtual reality, and even in the film industry where special effects are paramount.
For instance, imagine a scenario where a user can seamlessly integrate themselves into a virtual meeting room, or a filmmaker can effortlessly place actors into different settings without the need for green screens. The possibilities are vast and varied, making Spektral’s technology a valuable asset for Apple.
Apple’s Vision for Augmented Reality
Apple has been investing heavily in AR technology over the past few years. The company has introduced ARKit, a framework that allows developers to create AR experiences for iOS devices. With the acquisition of Spektral, Apple is likely looking to enhance ARKit’s capabilities even further. The integration of Spektral’s technology could lead to more immersive and realistic AR experiences on Apple devices.
Moreover, Apple CEO Tim Cook has repeatedly emphasized the importance of AR, stating that it will become as integral to our lives as smartphones are today. This acquisition aligns with Apple’s long-term vision of making AR a mainstream technology. By incorporating Spektral’s cutting-edge software, Apple can offer users more engaging and interactive experiences, whether it’s through gaming, education, or everyday applications.
According to TechCrunch, the acquisition happened a while back, and it has only been confirmed by Apple recently. Exactly what Apple will do with this new technology and how it will be integrated into AR on their devices remains to be seen. However, given Apple’s track record of innovation, it’s safe to say that the integration will likely be seamless and user-friendly.
In addition to enhancing ARKit, Spektral’s technology could also play a role in other Apple products and services. For example, the software could be used to improve the quality of photos and videos taken with the iPhone’s camera, offering users more creative options for editing and sharing their content. It could also be integrated into Apple’s video editing software, such as Final Cut Pro, providing professional filmmakers with powerful new tools for their projects.
Furthermore, the acquisition of Spektral could give Apple a competitive edge in the AR market. With companies like Google and Microsoft also investing heavily in AR, having access to Spektral’s advanced technology could help Apple stay ahead of the curve and continue to lead the industry in innovation.
In conclusion, Apple’s acquisition of Spektral is a strategic move that underscores the company’s commitment to advancing AR technology. By leveraging Spektral’s expertise in real-time object separation, Apple can enhance its AR offerings and provide users with more immersive and realistic experiences. While the full extent of the integration remains to be seen, it’s clear that this acquisition has the potential to significantly impact the future of AR on Apple devices.
Source TechCrunch
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