Optimizing AI in AR/VR with FPGA Solutions

As AI becomes a standard feature in AR/VR devices, manufacturers are faced with a difficult choice.

On one hand, they want to offer the best possible AI-powered features to stay ahead in the competitive market. On the other hand, they need to ensure that these features don’t drain the battery too quickly or cause the device to overheat, which would reduce user comfort and potentially damage the hardware.

Cooling solutions like fans are impractical in the compact designs required for AR and VR devices, and heavy reliance on GPU-based solutions often leads to excessive power consumption and heat generation. With the right approach, it's possible to integrate AI seamlessly into AR/VR systems without compromising on power or thermal management.

Lattice Semiconductor provides a suite of ultra-low-power FPGA solutions that enable developers to integrate AI in AR/VR devices without sacrificing energy efficiency or increasing heat output. These FPGAs provide the necessary resources to implement intelligent systems while optimizing for power efficiency and compact design, making them ideal for a variety of applications, from always-on intelligence to high-speed processing.

Lattice FPGAs bring AI-driven intelligence to AR/VR devices without compromising battery life or overheating. Here are three ways they enhance user experience while maintaining efficiency:

• Human Detection

Detecting human presence is a key function in AR/VR devices, whether to optimize energy consumption or enhance user safety.

Traditional infrared sensors often produce false positives, detecting non-human objects. The Lattice CertusPro-NX  and CrossLink-NX enable AI-powered human detection, filtering out irrelevant signals to ensure accurate recognition. This is particularly useful in industrial safety, where alerts can be triggered if unauthorized personnel enter restricted zones.

For simpler applications, the iCE40 UltraPlus provides endpoint AI functionality, enabling low-power presence detection to activate power-saving features like automatic screen dimming or standby mode.

• Gesture Detection

Touchless interaction is a key evolution in AR/VR. 

The Lattice iCE40 UltraPlus enables energy-efficient gesture recognition, supporting both static gestures (like open/closed hand shapes) and dynamic motions (such as taps or swipes). Its real-time AI processing adapts to different environments, making it ideal for wearables and always-on AR/VR systems.

• Personal authentication

Securing access to AR/VR devices is essential, whether for industrial applications or consumer privacy. Traditional authentication methods, such as passwords or PIN codes, can be inconvenient and insecure. AI-powered biometric authentication provides a seamless and reliable alternative.

The Lattice CertusPro-NX  enables real-time facial and voice recognition with ultra-low power consumption, making it an ideal solution for AR/VR devices that require continuous authentication without draining the battery. In industrial settings, this technology ensures that only authorized personnel can operate specific equipment, preventing unauthorized use and enhancing workplace safety. For consumer applications, facial authentication allows users to access their AR/VR systems instantly, providing a secure yet frictionless experience.

With Lattice FPGAs, you can achieve the perfect balance between AI functionality, energy efficiency, and user experience. These solutions provide developers with the tools to create cutting-edge AR/VR devices that offer fast response times and advanced capabilities.

Looking to optimize your AR/VR system with AI? Get in touch and let’s start a conversation.