From: mk_thisisit
Ryan Poźniak Daniels, a 22-year-old developer, has been working on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for almost 10 years, starting to build apps in AR at a young age [03:37:37]. His journey into AR began after interviewing Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo, who predicted that the future of games and technology belonged to virtual and augmented reality [20:25:25]. This revelation prompted Daniels to specialize in these technologies [20:50:50]. He believes AR will save humanity [01:04:04] and help people remain relevant [00:31:31].
Work with Apple Vision Pro
Apple invited Daniels to be one of the first app developers to build new applications for the new augmented reality glasses, the Apple Vision Pro [00:00:00][03:49:49]. He is currently focused on creating these new applications, which will become available in a few weeks [28:15:15].
The Apple Vision Pro is described as a special device that no other VR glasses can emulate [04:55:55]. Key features for application development include:
- High Resolution [05:00:00].
- Control Methods: Users can control the device with their eyes, voice, and hand movements [04:20:20][05:03:03].
- Built-in AI: The device includes AI that understands user intent within the AR/VR structure [05:08:08].
- Spatial Computing: Apple refers to their AR approach as “spatial computing,” which means the technology connects with the space around the user, allowing for easy placement of virtual objects in a real environment for visualization [09:50:50].
Role of AI in AR Development
Daniels emphasizes that augmented reality truly needs AI and machine learning to function [05:44:44]. AR uses a field called computer vision, which is based on AI, meaning AR cannot work without AI [05:56:56]. He sees AI as the foundation of AR [06:06:06].
While AI is excellent at solving problems and can even replace human work [10:43:43], Daniels believes augmented reality will save humanity [06:23:23][26:10:10]. He argues that AR allows people to remain important and active participants in the world, even if super intelligence is created [25:36:36].
Notable Projects and Applications of AR
Daniels has been involved in several high-profile projects demonstrating the diverse applications of AR:
NASA Astronaut Suits
At 22 years old, Daniels led a research team that participated in a NASA competition to invent a new augmented reality application interface for use on the moon [11:45:45][13:53:53]. His team was accepted by NASA to create and cooperate on these AR glasses and a special interface for astronauts to use while walking on the moon [12:21:21]. This application will be in their helmets, allowing them to check vital parameters like oxygen levels and determine proper direction [12:44:44].
SpaceX Educational VR
Daniels also cooperates with SpaceX, developing a virtual reality application to educate people on what it’s like to be an astronaut, the colonization of other planets, and visits to the space station [14:51:51]. This VR experience allows users to practically experience being an astronaut [15:13:13]. He views this ability to “magically move into space” using VR glasses as akin to magic [15:28:28].
Snapchat Filters
Five years ago, at age 17, Daniels was invited by Snapchat to create one of the first augmented reality filters for their application [16:11:11]. He was among the first programmers to receive access to the tools needed to create new Snapchat filters [16:39:39]. He designed an AR experience that transforms the user into an astronaut, complete with a helmet, and a rocket shooting out if they open their mouth [16:51:51].
Stanford Educational Tools
Stanford University invited Daniels to co-create one of the first interactive educational tools designed to teach neurosurgery [09:11:11].
Music and AR
Daniels combines his passion for music with VR technology, creating musical experiences that transport the listener to new dimensions [17:47:47]. He had the opportunity to work with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, creating original music for their concerts, often adapting and rearranging classical pieces like Chopin’s preludes [18:06:06]. His projects involved incorporating Polish folklore and culture into both his animations and music [27:02:02].
The Future of VR
Daniels believes that while few people currently use AR or VR daily, much will change thanks to Apple and new headsets appearing in the next few years [06:42:42]. He foresees a day when everyone will wear and use AR and VR glasses, becoming a new way of communication, entertainment, learning, and education [07:00:00]. He predicts that AR/VR glasses will eventually replace the iPhone [22:02:02], much like mobile phones became ubiquitous after a few years [21:49:49]. He also expects these technologies to reach all corners of the world, just like mobile phones have [22:42:42].
Daniels views augmented reality and artificial intelligence as pioneering technologies that feel a bit like magic to people, similar to how Edison’s electric light bulb was perceived [24:17:17]. His personal mission is to democratize AR and VR for everyone [25:04:04].
Polish Heritage and Influence
Despite being born in the United States, Daniels speaks Polish, loves Polish culture, and considers himself Polish [01:35:35]. He received the title of “Outstanding Pole,” an honor recognizing his various projects that incorporate Polish culture and folklore [26:31:31]. He draws inspiration from Polish masters like Andrzej Sapkowski and Stanisław Lem for creating new VR applications [29:40:40]. He is proud of his Polish roots and consistently tries to expose and celebrate them in his journalistic work, virtual reality, music, animations, and games [27:40:40]. He believes Poland has many talented people working on the future of gaming technology and innovation, which he finds uplifting [29:55:55].