Proximity may be a component of or used in conjunction with location information. Proximity is the distance between objects, xR experiences, rendering devices based on varying locations and time. Proximity can be based on: distance between objects, distance between rendering devices (physically or virtually), distance between objects and rendering devices, distance between people, and changes in distance over time. In some cases, proximity parameters may depend on the device format (i.e., phone vs vehicle HUD).
Proximity may apply to a variety of senses, such as sound and smell. It is possible for xR experiences to be tailored and enhanced using proximity techniques with these other senses. For example, a sound coming from a certain direction or angle can be made to behave more realistically by having it sound like it is getting closer or farther away as one moves their current position or head related to the virtual sound source.
The following examples illustrate the use of proximity in an xR experience. If a person is interested in a particular restaurant, the system may automatically show the user the closest restaurant of that type. In some cases, the rendered experience can change in real time as proximity to other objects or locations changes.
Similarly, if a car is running low on gas (or battery level), a rendering device may automatically inform the user of the next refill station. If a person is within a certain range of a school, the system may prohibit promotion of ‘inappropriate’ messages (smoking, alcohol, porn, etc.).