Augmented reality - the idea of combining interactive 3D computer graphics with live video - looks like it could soon transform the world of Djing.

Laptops have revolutionized DJing, but they've also stripped DJing of some a lot of the tactile fun. Augmented reality DJ applications offer a way to get hands-on with music that's an alternative to DJ control surfaces.

Here are three examples of augmented reality DJ systems:

This is a demo of augmented reality DJ scratching. A webcam and computer are used to track the speed of the record's rotation and use that information to control the playback of an audio file.

ARDJ (Augmented Reality DJ system) incorporates a simple, and virtually no-cost interface into a digital music workstation making use of Augmented Reality technology. By manipulating the position of printed symbols, the user controls playback of audio loops.

In case you're thinking you'll be an augmented reality DJ about the time you get that flying car, think again. The video above demonstrates a current commercial application of augmented reality DJing.

5 Gum Augmented Reality Music Mixer is a clever promo for Wrigley's 5 Gum. It lets you use "glyphs" that you print off of your computer printer, along with a computer webcam, to control a virtual reality DJ mixer.

Augmented reality DJ systems are not ready to take the place of more traditional DJ hardware - but they're opening up a new future.

Links:

• AR DJ Scratching
• AR DJ System
• 5 Gum DJ Mixer

James Lewin
Twitter @podcasting_news

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