Here is an idea of what Google’s Project Starline is all about

Google’s Project Starline simply aims to take video conferencing to an entirely new level. It does this in a way no other brand has, by bringing real-time 3D effects to the subject in the display. By doing this, the viewer will be able to feel as though the person they are talking with is sitting right in front of them.

Google first gave a look into this vision at their 2021 I/O event with the prototype of the technology. This prototype came with a rather complex design and a lot of cameras, microphones, and sensors to track the person in front of the display. Together, these items create a realistic 3D rendering of the person and capture the sounds they make and their movement impressively.

But, at the 2023 Google I/O event, the company showed off some refinements to Project Starline. These refinements simplify the technology and improve in certain areas to deliver a better real-time 3D experience. Folks like MKBHD and Abner Li from 9to5Google were able to use the new Project Starline, and they had a few things to share.

Major improvements coming to Google’s Project Starline and everything you need to know

With the new Project Starline, Google simplifies some things, hence making it smaller than the prototype. According to Abner Li, “The new Project Starline prototype is more like a digital whiteboard.” There is also a depth guard in the front of the screen and three cameras at the top, left, and right sides of the display.

These cameras improve the depth of images captured to give the viewer a more immersive experience. Well, it’s not all about cameras and a large whiteboard display, as this display also puts artificial intelligence to good use. Yes, artificial intelligence is put to use in the creation of a depth map, making the video taken seem realistic.

Both MKBHD and Abner Li praised the image depth from the camera technology on Google’s Project Starline. However, both parties also noted that the 3D effect and the depth came with some limitations. While being able to look at objects in the display from various angles, MKBHD made it known that the edges can get choppy.

Despite this limitation, both MKBHD and Abner Li gave thumbs up to Google for the improvements to the new Project Starline. But who is this technology meant for and how can it be put to use? Google’s Project Starline targets enterprises that want a more immersive video-calling experience between them and their clients or partners.

The new Project Starline is smaller and now more usable to a certain extent, but it still needs some refinement. Some enterprises are already putting this product to use, and it might gain popularity in the coming years. To get a visual idea of Google’s Project Starline you can check out MKBHD’s demo.