Interface with angels: the future of VIR and AR interfaces

Although real guardian angels aren't easy to get hold of, some of the computer technology needed for such a personal assistant is already available. Other parts exist in the form of research prototypes, but some technological breakthroughs are necessary before we can realize their potential, let alone integrate into our daily routines. Future VR and AR interfaces won't necessarily try to provide a perfect imitation of reality but instead will adapt their display mechanisms to their users' individual requirements. The emergence of these interfaces won't rely on a single technology but will depend on the advances in many areas, including computer graphics, display technology, tracking and recognition devices, natural and intuitive interactions, 3D interaction techniques, mobile and ubiquitous computing, intelligent agents, and conversational user interfaces, to name a few. The guardian angel scenario exemplifies how future developments in AR and VR user interfaces might change the way we interact with computers. Although this example is just one of several plausible scenarios, it demonstrates that AR and VP, in combination with user-centered design of their post-WIMP interfaces, can provide increased access, convenience, usability, and efficiency.