A pilot program will introduce Google Beam to United Service Organizations locations worldwide starting next year.
Google Beam is a real-time 3D communication system that allows users to see a full/life-sized 3D rendering of the person they are talking to. The system uses multiple cameras and artificial intelligence to convert standard 2D video streams into a 3D light field display, creating the appearance of 3D holograms with near-perfect head tracking.
"We're thrilled to partner with the USO and support our nation's active duty service members," Google Beam General Manager Andrew Nartker said in a release. "Starting next year, Google Beam will help deployed service members have the opportunity to feel closer to their families for moments big and small, and feel like they’re together in the same room."
The partnership between Google and USO was announced earlier this week and will help service members stationed overseas connect more easily with their loved ones back home.
“Google Beam’s innovative technology will be a godsend to have in the hands of our military service members that are deployed around the world and to their families,” said USO CEO retired Army Lt. Gen. and USO CEO Mike Linnington.
According to the release, the effort directly pairs with the USO’s continued mission to support deployed service members by helping ease their time away from home by bringing a part of home to them with lifelike video calls.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.