Nreal LTD, developer of consumer-grade mixed reality (MR) glasses, unveiled in a press release a product design collaboration with “au”, a brand marketed by KDDI for their mobile cellular and home internet services, and announced the introduction of a 5G-powered, augmented reality (AR) museum with KDDI and Toppan Printing at CEATEC 2019 (Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies). The experience was exhibited at the Makuhari Messe complex in Chiba, Japan between October 15 and October 18, which was the first chance for the public to experience the latest innovations with NrealLight to foster the development of more affordable and commercial MR applications in Japan.

Aiming to showcase a future that that leverages emerging tech, CEATEC 2019 focused on bringing together innovative technologies including 5G and IoT that aim to “impact society as a whole for the better,” according to the company. The attendees of CEATEC experienced an MR-based AR museum experience that’s streamed through KDDI’s 5G developer environment. The MR application offered an immersive, digital experience that put attendees in close proximity with Japan’s national treasure, the 18th century Writing Box with Eight Bridges.

KDDI-designed NrealLight units displayed at MWC 2019 Shanghai. Image courtesy of Nreal.

“MR will open the doors to showcase the full potential of wearable technology and we couldn’t be more excited to unveil in Japan the commercial use of NrealLight and introduce MR technology to consumers in the Japanese market,” said Katsuhiro Kozuki, deputy GM of Mobile & XR, Personal Business Sector at KDDI.

Aiming to develop killer apps in the 5G era, KDDI has formed a strategic partnership with Nreal LTD. that will invest in the development of spatial computing and the promotion of smart glasses in Japan. Through the collaboration, KDDI will support the development of consumer applications based on NrealLight and will tailor the design of NrealLight for Japanese customers.

“There’s never been a better time to showcase how MR technology will transform this world,” said Joshua Yeo, vice president of Nreal LTD. “We’re excited to build new consumer and enterprise applications that will introduce mixed reality to the Japan market.”