Wearable devices and smartphones have been part of modern living, and new technology has given such machines access to a whole new level of capability. Among the latest trends in wearables is augmented reality, allowing devices to interpret the world and then layer on information from the Internet or a service provider. Augmented reality is already helping people in their daily lives. It is especially valuable to people with limited abilities, such as those who have lost their eyesight.

To explore the power of augmented reality to change lives, John Furrier, host of theCUBE, from the SiliconANGLE Media team, spoke with Jason Jacobs and Simon Wheatcroft at the IBM InterConnect 2016 conference in Las Vegas. Jacobs is the founder and CEO of Runkeeper (FitnessKeeper, Inc.), and Wheatcroft is an ultra marathon runner.

A new beginning

The discussion started with Wheatcroft explaining how he was frustrated by losing his sight. As an athlete, he found himself extremely limited in what he could do because he wasn’t able to see. He said that he needed a challenge, and found it in running. The Runkeeper app, he said, was very helpful because it gave audio cues he could follow. He was able to map out a route using the Runkeeper app to find his way.

Jacobs then said that he wanted to build a company doing what he loved, which was fitness. His goal was to help ordinary people get and stay motivated. He was amazed to see how Wheatcroft used the Runkeeper tech and has been impressed by what he is able to do.

Defining moments

Wheatcroft spoke about a defining moment with the augmented reality app. He was running on a closed road, using the double-yellow line as a guide he could feel. While using the app, the program exactly matched his pace. That’s when he knew this technology could work for him.

Since then, Wheatcroft said, he’s learned to train solo. He also met the Runkeeper team, including the voice of the Runkeeper app. The next goal, he said, is to compete solo. He’s even developing an app to help.

Watch the full interview below, and be sure to check out more of SiliconANGLE and theCUBE’s coverage of IBM InterConnect 2016. And join in on the conversation by CrowdChatting with theCUBE hosts.

Photo by SiliconANGLE