Google is reportedly working on an Augmented Reality (AR) headset codenamed Project Iris. The device uses outward-facing cameras to record the real world and then add computer graphics on top of it, creating an immersive, mixed reality experience.

The information comes from a couple of sources familiar with the project who requested anonymity to speak without the company’s permission (via The Verge). They’ve revealed that the early prototypes are being built at a facility in the San Francisco Bay Area and look like ski goggles. The device does not need any wired connection to an external power source and is powered by a custom Google processor, just like the Google Pixel 6 series is.

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As expected, the headset will be running Android, although recent job listings indicate that Google is working on a new OS for an ‘innovative AR device,’ meaning the company might soon be getting another OS to its name after Android, Chrome OS, and Fuchsia.

Given power constraints, Google’s strategy is to utilize its data centers for rendering some graphics remotely and then beaming them to the headset over the internet.

The sources have also revealed that the Pixel team is involved in Project Iris as well but it’s unknown if the headset will eventually be Pixel-branded. Still, we can be sure of the Google Glass name being off-limits since the name is still registered for the ill-fated gadget from a decade ago.

Project Iris seems to be a big deal considering its extremely secret nature, tucked away in a building that requires keycard access and everything. The core team working on it is made of roughly 300 people and Google plans on expanding it by a whole lot.

As for the release date, the AR headset could be making its way through as soon as 2024 along with Project Starline. The latter is an ultra-high-resolution video chat booth and was demoed last year.

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