Why Did Google and Co. Invest Billions to Magic Leap Studios?

Google has always been one to support brilliant tech innovations and so it didn’t come as a surprise that they had backed Magic Leap Studios, all in pursuit of consistently developing novel computing interfaces and software to the tune of several billions of dollars.

It seemed to be an easy decision for the multinational, multi-billion dollar technology company that had looked forward to funding projects said to have been the new wave of mixed-reality technology.

Did it come a surprise to some of us? You could probably say that given that Magic Leap was still a little-known startup at that time. But then, who would even dream about questioning Google’s decision, right? Certainly not me.

The barrage of mixed reactions and questions from critics and tech geeks alike, does speak for itself though and begs the question: Why all this mystery surrounding such a huge investment?

Magic Leap Studio’s virtual vision for the future was beyond that of any other company’s and fed Google and other investors’ desire for technological advancement. They were even developing some kind of futuristic version of augmented reality which they were strongly convinced would be better and much more advanced than any other modern 3D experience out there. People have been harsh about their criticisms about this alleged "new way to see the world" and while it does sound like an amazing concept, the fact that it still is one doesn’t escape the majority. When you think about it, it would be extremely difficult to convince people to support you unless you give them a more concrete idea of what you’re working on or deliver them the actual results or experience.

Despite the vagueness that surrounded Magic Leap developments, we did get a few loose ideas of what they were trying to build. They had planned to weave what they called as "3D light sculptures" into the world instead of a virtual one that people can immerse in. It’s basically like bringing the virtual world to us instead of the other way around. Nothing short of brilliance and ambition there, that’s for sure. But then again, that’s why all these companies have always had the power to change our views.

Think about it for a second. They’re introducing us to a newer more intimate way of interacting with computers through technology that projects high-resolution images to our surroundings. That’s definitely one giant leap to the future but then, events like that are normal in this day and age. That’s not really what has people questioning. It’s the secrets perhaps; the lack of results or, according to this article on wired, the fact that there is still no beta version released, not even to the developers. The combination of the insanely huge funding and the mystery behind it is what has sparked widespread curiosity.

A lot of people don’t quite understand virtual technology except from what they see in the movies. In fact, I myself have a lack of detailed knowledge of it as well. However, this doesn’t change the fact that many brilliant individuals do and have even put their faith on such an innovation. Google and Co. are prime examples of investors that know where this could possibly go – and that’s the future. The future of business and technology and many other immense possibilities.

Look at where electronics or robotics were a few years back. One could never have imagined then, the level of technology that we can access in this day age; how developers have made human-technological interactions more dynamic and personal. There were all these criticisms and doubts about visions and concepts as well, not much different from what Magic Leap has been on the receiving end of these past couple years. I guess it’s no surprise how well the prominent figures of these companies seem to be brushing it off. While most minds are stuck in the present, theirs are already contemplating the destiny of humankind.

The fact that Google decided to support Magic Leap Studios shouldn’t have us questioning but have us hoping instead. If this company, as beneficial and influential as it has been to us, believes that Magic Leap’s one-of-a-kind technology has the potential to accomplish wonders then there’s absolutely no reason we shouldn’t see it that way.

Technology, life-altering technology, is not something that can be developed in a few years. These things take time, an immense effort, and a huge leap of faith. I stand by Google’s decision to support Magic Leap in advancing virtual technology to the level reminiscent of their vision. Will that be this year or the next, perhaps? Who knows? Until that time, we should do our best to educate ourselves of its fundamentals and the various possibilities it can offer.