This is somewhat reminiscent of the hardware required for a kind of mini holodeck: Apple in the United States Patent granted for a light bulbThe purpose of which is to project mixed reality content on tables and walls. This would solve the existing problem that wearers of mixed reality headsets like Vision Pro can see something virtual, but the environment is excluded unless it also has the headset on. The solution described in the patent would at least enable the environment to view a 2D version of the content.
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According to the patent application, the bulb includes low- and high-resolution LED projectors. Lower-resolution projectors are intended to be used more for simple mood effects, while higher-resolution projectors are intended to be able to project entire user interfaces or videos across the room so they can be viewed simultaneously.

Can also be used for general lighting
A positive side effect of such lamps is that they can also be used for the general purpose of lighting the room. Most of all, it will ensure that the isolation of headset wearers is eliminated. Apple has attempted to bridge this gap with the Vision Pro with Eyesight function and external display. Yet, Vision Pro users find themselves in a separate virtual world that remains hidden from outsiders. Such projection systems could turn mixed reality into a group experience.
Given recent reports about Apple’s smart home offensive and the initial release of the Vision Pro this year, such a light bulb would fit very well into a potential go-forward strategy. Still, many questions arise about the technical implementation and how practical the concept really is, as the rooms will undoubtedly have to be darkened.
The purpose of the sensor is to improve estimates
Apple’s description indicates that such a light bulb could fit into a standard light socket. Sensors can be used to record surfaces and people to make projections as realistic as possible. Apple has already described the basic idea of ​​the projector system in a previous patent. The idea protection now provided is the most comprehensive version of such a solution to date.
(MKI)
