Video projector creates augmented reality with no bulky headset

You don't need special glasses to see an augmented view of the world. A new combined camera and computer can superimpose images over real-world objects without the need for a head-mounted display. Lightform connects to a video projector to beam images and animations on to surrounding objects, essentially turning any surface into a screen – a technique called projection mapping. To do this, it scans the environment using depth sensors to map the shape of objects, then tailors its lighting effects to fit. "The idea is to seamlessly merge the virtual world with the physical world, and to do it without wearing anything on your face," says Lightform CEO Brett Jones, whose firm came out of "stealth mode" this week.