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Google takes a $542m punt on augmented reality startup Magic Leap

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By John Glenday, Reporter

October 23, 2014 | 1 min read

Google is fronting a $542m investment in Magic Leap, an augmented reality startup which specialises in developing ‘novel human computer interfaces and software.’

Ace in its sleeve is what Magic Leap describe as cinematic reality, a system of delivering 3D experiences which it claims to be more realistic than any rival product. Key to this approach is to do away with clunky VR helmets and visors ala Oculus Rift in favour of ‘3D light sculptures’ which can be drawn in real world environments via nothing more than a pair of glasses.

Clearly convinced by this potential Google is dispatching Sundar Pichai, head of its Android division, to join the board at Magic Leap after heading a group of investors which includes chip-maker Qualcomm, Legendary Pictures and Kleiner Perkins.

Explaining why he pulled his wallet out Thomas Tull, CEO of Legendary, said: "It's so badass you can't believe it. It's one of the few things I've ever experienced in my life where I came out and said, 'This changes everything. This is a marker of the future.'"

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