Introduction to Augmented Reality
Augmented reality is anticipated to revolutionize the world, and most of the people consider that these changes shall be for the higher. However, there’s a growing concern that this technology will further erode our privacy. A brand new Netflix film, Anon, starring Clive Owen and Amanda Seyfried, explores the darker side of AR’s future.
The Film’s Vision of the Future
The film’s opening scene is viewed from the angle of Owen’s character, a detective named Sal Frieland. His perspective is full of AR overlays via an implant, where everyone and every thing he sees is immediately identified or visually augmented with relevant information. People’s faces are framed with their name, age, and job title, while landmarks are annotated with architectural design details.
The Impact of AR on Daily Life
In the film, Frieland can see the make and model of cars on the road, and store windows feature virtual models and try-on experiences. The technology also can record every thing, and police can access all of it. This raises questions on the potential consequences of such technology, including the potential for compromising personal privacy.
The Plot Thickens
As Frieland investigates a series of murders, he discovers that the victim’s points of view have been hacked, and the murderer’s record has been scrubbed of identification. Seyfried’s character, a hacker who can edit and erase AR records, becomes the prime suspect. Her ability to change reality makes her a formidable opponent, and Frieland must navigate the complexities of AR to unravel the case.
Real-World Applications of AR
Many of the AR examples presented in Anon can be found today, including facial recognition, automobile identification, and landmark recognition tools. Companies like Blippar, Google, and Zara are already using AR to reinforce customer experiences. However, the hardware required to support such advanced AR technology continues to be in development.
The Concerns Surrounding AR
Anon raises necessary questions on the potential consequences of AR, including the sacrifice of privacy for convenience. As AR becomes more pervasive, we are going to need to think about the implications of getting our every move recorded and potentially revised. The film highlights the necessity for careful consideration and regulation of AR technology to make sure that it advantages society without compromising our privacy.
Conclusion
Anon is a thought-provoking film that explores the potential consequences of augmented reality. While AR has the potential to revolutionize many points of our lives, it also raises necessary questions on privacy and the potential for misuse. As AR technology continues to develop, it is crucial that we consider these concerns and work to create a future where the advantages of AR are balanced with the necessity to protect our personal privacy.
