Graphic shows how the Magic Leap One device works.
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TECH

Magic Leap’s expensive but magical AR graphics

By Ninian Carter

August 15, 2018 - The Magic Leap One, under development for years and often derided as fiction by naysayers tired of its non-appearance, has finally arrived.

Magic Leap, the multi-billion dollar augmented reality technology startup, has finally shipped its long-awaited headset – currently only available to a limited number of U.S. software developers.

After years of scathing reports that its rumoured technology was a billion dollar investment scam, the Magic Leap One has proven to be real, and although expensive at $2,295, is impressing developers with its lightweight visor and computing power. But equally it is drawing criticism for its price point and the feeling that this version is just a stepping stone to a finished product still some years away.

The firm’s founder, Rony Abovitz, says the company is looking to raise more financing, and is ready for a long-term battle with rivals Microsoft and Apple, which are developing their own AR headsets.

So far, the company has raised $2.3 billion from the likes of Google, Alibaba, Qualcomm and Warner Bros.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 15/08/2018; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Handouts
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