At L+R, our work in strategy and integrated product development is guided by a clear-eyed view of emerging technologies, distinguishing between speculative trends and genuine opportunities. That’s why our Director of Engineering, Ivan Leider, was recently featured in Little Black Book's insightful piece, "Is Augmented Reality Having a Come Back?" The article offers a strategic assessment of the spatial computing and AI landscape, with Ivan providing a candid analysis of the path forward for this nascent industry.
While the technology sector often fixates on speculative innovations, Ivan provides a necessary counterpoint to the hype cycle. He identifies a critical impasse: the current trade-offs among price, quality, wearability, and user experience collectively hold extended reality back from widespread adoption. This perspective grounds the conversation in the business realities of consumer technology—a product must be both accessible and practical to gain traction.
The Newfound Momentum in Spatial Computing
Despite these challenges, a new wave of momentum is building. We’re watching key developments closely, particularly the impending launch of Android XR and Samsung's highly anticipated Project Moohan device, both expected this year. Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses also continue to demonstrate a compelling case for the "smart glasses" form factor, with sales growing at a fast rate. This is complemented by a surge of anticipatory energy as developers and the industry at large look ahead to Meta Connect next month.
Ivan's analysis suggests that the key to unlocking widespread adoption lies in a more seamless, human-centric form factor. He points to products like the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses as a promising evolution, prompting a fascinating question: "Are they truly XR devices, or something else entirely?" This inquiry highlights the blurring lines and the potential for a new paradigm—one where a more socially acceptable form factor becomes the true game-changer, eclipsing the bulkiness of current headsets.
Redefining Productivity and Communication
At its core, Ivan's perspective centers on the impact of technology on productivity and communication, a foundational pillar of our work in technology and experience design. He challenges us to consider which is more valuable: a virtual desktop inside a VR headset or using eye-tracking and gestures through lightweight glasses? Similarly, for professional conferencing, is full immersion the objective, or the ability to join a call while remaining engaged in your physical environment?
The path forward, as Ivan sees it, is through unobtrusive, intuitive technology. This aligns perfectly with our commitment to creating solutions that seamlessly integrate into people's lives. We are not merely observing the evolution of spatial computing; we are actively shaping it through a meticulous approach to human-centered design and the development of solutions that are not only innovative but also truly meaningful and impactful.
To stay current on these developments, consider subscribing to our monthly newsletter, Spatial Computing Business, for expert analysis and insights. For organizations looking to strategically navigate this space, our Emerging Technology Accelerator Program offers a complimentary, educational workshop and a customized proof-of-concept to explore the business value of spatial computing.
About Little Black Book
Little Black Book (LBB) is a leading online publication that covers the global creative industries. It serves as a vital platform for news, insights, and inspiration, showcasing the work of industry professionals and providing valuable resources for those interested in the creative sector. As a trusted resource for creatives worldwide, LBB offers a platform for individuals and companies to showcase their work and connect with others in the industry. Its global reach and diverse range of content make it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the creative sector, whether they're just starting out or are already established professionals.
About L+R
L+R is a global technology and design consultancy that partners with leading organizations to build digital products and services that transform industries. We specialize in UX/UI Design, Branding & Design, Mobile Application Development, Strategy Consulting, Research & Development, Invention, Spatial Computing, Web3 & Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence. With studios in Brooklyn, New York; Barcelona, Spain; Milan, Italy; Doha, Qatar; and Barranquilla, Colombia, we are at the forefront of innovation, creating impactful experiences that resonate with people worldwide.
