We’ve seen how AI can be used in the health industry, where it will be capable of detecting cancer or even Alzheimer’s. Now it seems that Google is also throwing their hat into the ring by developing a prototype augmented reality microscope that is being used for cancer research and detection purposes.
This isn’t just a regular microscope because like we mentioned, it is a microscope with an augmented reality display. According to Google, “The platform consists of a modified light microscope that enables real-time image analysis and presentation of the results of machine learning algorithms directly into the field of view.”
They add, “As in a traditional analog microscope, the user views the sample through the eyepiece. A machine learning algorithm projects its output back into the optical path in real-time. This digital projection is visually superimposed on the original (analog) image of the specimen to assist the viewer in localizing or quantifying features of interest.”
The best part is that it appears that this augmented reality display can be retrofitted onto existing microscopes, meaning that researchers, hospitals, and clinics won’t need to spend too much money on completely brand new equipment. Of course when exactly will we see this implemented for real remains to be seen, but it definitely sounds very promising. More details about this augmented reality microscope can be found here.