Magic Leap?

What does it do?

You’re not the first to ask. Founded in 2010, Magic Leap provoked intense speculation. The basic idea was augmented reality: users could wave around devices to interact with 3D-rendered objects in the real world. By 2014, the company had raised more than half a billion dollars and, reassuringly, hired a science-fiction writer as its Chief Futurist. The sense of mystery was tarnished by comparisons to Google Glass, which already existed and was getting a bit boring. Demo videos appeared in 2015, but a year later, when Microsoft’s Hololens AR headset debuted, there was still no sign of Magic Leap’s. Now, Magic Leap One, a headset with a handheld control unit and dedicated computer, is finally going on sale, in the US only, for $2,295 (around £2,145, pictured).

Why would I want it?

Unlike virtual-reality headsets, the Lightwear goggles are transparent, so you see the real world, but with 3D objects added. For example, you could watch characters fight on your coffee table and the loser fall off. This kind of tech has huge potential for work, too. It’s also becoming commonplace in apps for standard smartphones, without any extra equipment.

What’s the catch?

Leap One’s virtual overlay only fills part of your vision, so testers report it’s not very immersive, and objects don’t always stay fixed and solid. Marketed as a ‘Creator Edition’, it’s little more than a prototype. Apple is believed to be working on something similar, but would will it to feel a lot more polished.

So can I do without it?

Hold out your hand. Imagine a teapot sitting on it. Imagine that teapot is made of chocolate. In other words, yes.