Does the Galaxy S support virtual glasses?

[MirceaKitsune]

I've been interested to try this for a while, using my Samsung Galaxy S. I did some googling on the matter, and it seems what I'm looking for exists for some devices. I'm curous if it's doable with the Galaxy S too, using the proper hardware.

I use features like messenger and web browsing even when going outside, and also enjoy finding inventive ways to do things with my computer and phone. As of recent, I've been interested in the possibility of connecting a wearable screen that could allow leaving an application open (such as an IRC channel to see a chat) and being able to see what's happening without having to look at the phone (and of course still see where you're going on the street :P ). Such can be achieved using a small transparent screen, which could be connected to a lens and worn on the eye.

I never owned such a device, but seen that such hardware exist, called virtual googles. Some are sold at reasonable prices too. They're supposedly something like this. I found models that use USB connection, but I'm not sure if any support video-jack input (like this). For the Galaxy S, that's likely the only type of input that would work. So far, I seen some that are compatible with the iPhone and iPod.

Anyway, my question is: Would the Galaxy S support virtual glasses using jack video output? Or more simply, does it support video + audio output through a single jack for a standalone screen (not TV)? Possibly one that isn't powered by its own battery... since I imagine a small screen should to take electricity from the phone without using an amplifier, like headphones do.

I'm not experienced in this domain, so bare with me if I say something stupid :P Don't even know if such googles can be used as an "augmented reality" device that can be worn anywhere. Still, for a computer fanatic like myself, this would be a fun way to stay connected and do things more easily, and I'd sure be interested to try it out

[Tufftoad]

The 3.5mm port does support video & audio output (See Here). I doubt it will be able to draw enough power through the jack to power an independent display unit. I think the main problem would be controlling the phone's functions through such a head piece....unless you voice activate.

This is the Victor Meldrew in me but why would you bother? Not only would you have to carry around a set of bulky glasses and more cabling but you also advertise the fact that you carry a lot of tech with you. All in the name of messaging people. I prefer to walk around with one headphone in my ear, never 2 as I can't hear what's going on around me, let alone having a big lump of plastic over my face. I'm also taking for granted that virtual glasses also restricts the eye's field of vision.

There is an app on the Samsung App Store which basically allows you to use the camera to view where you are going while typing messages.

[MirceaKitsune]

Thanks for the feedback! I know it supports video through RCA cable, and already connected it to the TV with video and audio working. But I wasn't sure if the output is TV compatible only, but also compatible with portable screens that might power themselves from the phone (if the power that goes through the 3.5mm jack is enough to do that). I imagine such glasses would have a rechargeable amplifier too though.

The reasons I'm interested in this are several. I'm hoping to achieve simpler and quicker usage for one, but I also wanna do it "for science". I've been interested in augmented reality for a while, and looking into this made me wonder "how cool would it be if I could use my phone and a some special tech to make a clock or photo frame show in the upper-right corner of my eye as I walk around". Don't wanna advertise my tech with it, and I always wear cables under my clothes. If I can find such googles in a shop here, I'd go for something that looks like normal sunglasses... or at least doesn't make me seem like a cyborg And yeah, I wouldn't be able to give input to the phone like that (except voice), though I can still automate my display to do neat stuff.

[Tufftoad]

Keep us updated.

[MirceaKitsune]

Keep us updated.

I will. I plan to get the video eyewear for Christmas. I'm waiting for more replies here however, since I want it to be compatible with both my PC and Galaxy S. I mostly want to hear if anyone got such a device working with the phone through the jack cable, and if there's any risk of it not working. Or if only specific models of virtual glasses are known to work with the Galaxy S. Videos and articles would help too.

[Warbydad]

For a long time, I've thought it would be cool to have such a device. Not particularly for mobile phone use, but for home entertainment. However, as mobiles / smart phones have advanced so much over the last few years, I guess it amounts to the same thing. I have not come across it yet, but comments above suggest it does exist. I wonder if the device might have a detrimental effect on the eye though with having to focus so close. In fact I just tried to focus on something as close as where glasses would be. I can't do it.
Maybe there's a way round that......... Hope so.
Anyway. Hope you get, got what you were looking for.

[MirceaKitsune]

For a long time, I've thought it would be cool to have such a device. Not particularly for mobile phone use, but for home entertainment. However, as mobiles / smart phones have advanced so much over the last few years, I guess it amounts to the same thing. I have not come across it yet, but comments above suggest it does exist. I wonder if the device might have a detrimental effect on the eye though with having to focus so close. In fact I just tried to focus on something as close as where glasses would be. I can't do it.
Maybe there's a way round that......... Hope so.
Anyway. Hope you get, got what you were looking for.

Thanks. And yes, such glasses would obviously have a lens to zoom the eye. No one can focus their eyes on something so close (and don't try to, it's not healthy either). Another of the reasons I'm hoping to get this device, is that if the zoom is simulated far enough, it might help my eye problems caused by looking all day at a close monitor. I need to look at far objects more, and a lens that zooms the eye to simulate distance should count too, so such eyewear should be rather healthy.

My grandfather had a similar device years ago for seeing pictures in 3D, which looked like binoculars from the outside. You would insert a transparent photo in it, then look at a bright window or something lit through that device. The picture would then appear distanced and very close up.

[Doomed]

My grandfather had a similar device years ago for seeing pictures in 3D, which looked like binoculars from the outside. You would insert a transparent photo in it, then look at a bright window or something lit through that device. The picture would then appear distanced and very close up.

I remember them, and I'm not that old either (I've been told anyway, but I don't believe them)

[MirceaKitsune]

Although they're hard to find, I found a make of virtual glasses that seems to have what I'm looking for. They're called Vuzix Wrap 2D / 3D. Anyone know if they work with the SGS?

http://www.youmago.ro/gallery/view/595379/883941
http://smuffgadget.allshops.ro/produ...2D+sau+3D.html
http://www.electronice.aaz.ro/detali...Wrap-2D-sau-3D
http://www.smuff.ro/2010/10/29/ochel...noi/#more-2905

[Tufftoad]

Some good news maybe? Vuzix SMART HD glasses want to open our eyes to the future of augmented reality - GSM Arena