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Will the next generation of AR and VR be driven by eye tracking?
With the advancement of eye tracking technology, augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) are experiencing a major technological breakthrough. According to Memes Consulting, AR/VR has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by both startups and tech giants like Google, Apple, Samsung, and Facebook. Despite this progress, the hardware of AR/VR is still in an "expansive" phase. Most interfaces rely on head movements for input, and the visuals are not yet fully realistic, often causing eye strain and reduced user engagement.
Eye tracking systems offer a promising solution to these limitations. By monitoring eye activity in real time, they can significantly improve user interaction and enhance the overall experience. Traditionally used for scientific and commercial purposes—such as market research and medical diagnostics—eye tracking now holds great potential in the realm of human-computer interaction. Since humans primarily use vision to perceive their surroundings, the eyes can reveal a lot about a person's thoughts and preferences.
In terms of interaction, eye tracking allows devices to communicate without the need for buttons, controllers, or mice, paving the way for a more natural "human-machine relationship." For instance, a smartphone or laptop equipped with eye tracking and voice commands could perform complex tasks based on user thought patterns, rather than relying solely on physical inputs. This shift is crucial for the development of smart homes and the Internet of Things (IoT), where seamless human-device interaction is key.
Companies are now integrating compact infrared light-emitting diodes (IREDs) and small, efficient devices to make eye tracking more accessible. These advancements enable virtual displays to respond to natural, even unintentional, user prompts, creating a more immersive experience. The industry is changing rapidly, with companies like FOVE launching early eye-tracking VR headsets, and major players such as Tobii and Google investing heavily in the space.
Market data shows strong growth in the AR/VR sector. According to Parks and Associates, 9% of internet households in the U.S. plan to purchase VR headsets within the next year, with 24 million families expected to do so by 2017. UBI Analysis predicts that global shipments will exceed 65 million units by 2021, while IDC forecasts a compound annual growth rate of 108.3% over the next five years. In China alone, VR/AR sales are projected to reach $8.5 billion within four years. By 2023, the attention monitoring market could be worth $1.4 billion due to its growing role in AR/VR applications.
Eye tracking enhances immersion in several ways. First, it enables **visual rendering**, which optimizes graphics processing by focusing high-resolution details only where the user is looking. This reduces GPU load and power consumption, improving performance and reducing motion sickness. Second, it improves **precise pupil distance (IPD)** calibration, ensuring that lenses align correctly with the user’s eyes for a more realistic 3D experience. Third, it supports a **natural user interface (UI)**, allowing users to interact with virtual objects through eye movement rather than menus or buttons.
Additionally, eye tracking enhances **social interaction** by helping avatars understand and respond to users' emotions and social cues. It also offers **security benefits**, as iris recognition can replace traditional passwords for secure access. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect eye tracking to become a standard feature in future AR/VR devices.
To keep up with this fast-growing market, manufacturers are developing lightweight, energy-efficient IREDs, such as OSRAM Opto Semiconductors’ Firefly FH 4055, designed for close-range eye tracking. With continued innovation, eye tracking will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of immersive technologies.
**Further reading:**
- "Samsung Galaxy S8 Iris Recognition System"
- "Infrared LED and Laser Technology, Applications and Industry Trends"
- "HTC Vive Virtual Reality (VR) Head-mounted Display"
- "Oculus Rift Virtual Reality (VR) Head-mounted Display Device"