Augmented Glass: Exploring Transparent Handheld Displays
Project developed at: HP/Palm
The Augmented Glass project investigated the interaction design, ergonomics, and usability of thin, transparent handheld displays—envisioning a new product category beyond traditional tablets. Inspired by Sci-Fi depictions of optical see-through devices, this concept aimed to enable immersive mobile AR experiences while minimizing the bezel for a sleek, futuristic look.
Our prototypes featured tablet-sized glass panels coated for back-projection using a portable pico projector. The design also incorporated two cameras: one forward-facing for capturing the surrounding environment and one user-facing for facial tracking and view-dependent rendering. The project explored practical solutions for holding and interacting with such a thin, transparent device, paving the way for innovative AR interfaces.
Company: HP/Palm R&D Center
Team: Future Concepts and Prototyping team
Location: Sunnyvale, CA
Year: 2011
These images showcase the early prototypes for the Augmented Glass project, constructed using Meccano kit parts for rapid prototyping. The approach allowed me to quickly test and refine concepts for thin, transparent handheld displays. The prototypes featured glass panels coated for back-projection with a portable pico projector, enabling early exploration of interaction design, ergonomics, and usability for optical see-through devices aimed at immersive mobile AR experiences. Key-stoning was eventually implemented later.
This video showcases an early proof-of-concept for the Augmented Glass project, exploring the interaction design and usability of thin, transparent handheld displays. Inspired by the vision of optical see-through tablets for immersive mobile AR experiences, the prototype features a glass panel with a special coating for back-projection using a portable pico projector.
Developed by the Future Concepts and Prototyping team at HP/Palm’s R&D Center in Sunnyvale, California, this work was completed in November 2011 as a step toward redefining tablet design.
