Converting the user's smartphone to a virtual reality interface (VR) is the goal of the device-accessory Altergaze, which "climbed" to Kickstarter with a view to obtaining funding.
Visually, it is somewhat reminiscent of the old game "Viewmaster", and according to its creators, it aims to make virtual reality "mainstream". The device is described as a "virtual reality interface", which uses the mobile to provide a high quality VR experience to the user. It has been produced entirely through 3D printing and is fully customizable, while it can be used both as a handheld device or a headset. The user places the smartphone inside and is ready to use Altergaze, which gives him full access to functions of his phone, creating a stereoscopic 3D experience.
Το Αltergaze έχει σχεδιαστεί για να παρέχει εμπειρία οπτικού πεδίου 110 μοιρών με οθόνες μικρού μεγέθους, όπως αυτές που συναντώνται στο iPhone 5 και το Samsung S4 Mini. Παράλληλα, το γυροσκόπιό του του επιτρέπει να «αντιλαμβάνεται» κίνηση σε εννέα διαφορετικούς άξονες.
Its dimensions are 15.8 x 8,2 x 7,2 centimeters, while the weight is 220 grams (without the phone). Also, as its creators report, 3D printers can benefit from the campaign by participating in the program as manufacturers / distributors.
Until now, Altergaze has accumulated the amount of 15.093 pounds, targeting 25.000. 20 days remain to complete the process.
Virtual reality as space of consumer interest had made its appearance in the 1990s, however it was an attempt which had not been successful. However, it appears that its "total reset" is underway, in large part due to the ambitious Oculus Rift, which was recently purchased by Facebook, signaling the social media giant's shift towards the subject. Also, the rise of "augmented reality" (augmented reality) has worked positively, "paving the way" for the return of VR.
