New Merge Interaction Mode Coming Soon - Head Tracking

If you read our last blog post, you know that we’re working toward our biggest set of updates yet – moving Merge apps and experiences to the web in our all-new Merge 3D platform! If you haven't caught up yet, be sure to read it here. 

There are so many reasons that going to the web is an important move for using Merge in your classroom – including unlocking new and powerful new ways for students to interact with the digital world.

Today, we want to share an exciting new interaction mode coming soon: Head Tracking.

What is Head Tracking, exactly?

Head Tracking uses the camera already built into your students' Chromebooks, laptops, or tablets. When viewing an object or simulation in “head” tracking mode, the software senses their movement. As the student moves their head to the left, right, up, or down, the 3D object on the screen responds in real-time.

It effectively turns any device screen into a 3D window. Instead of just looking at a digital object, students feel like they are looking through the glass at a physical object sitting right inside their device.

A Merge Cube Study: Embodied Learning of Science Concepts Through Augmented Reality Technology

The study’s findings clearly indicate that incorporating AR into science education through embodied learning can substantially enhance student engagement, understanding, and collaboration.

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Active, Embodied Learning: Moving to Remember

At Merge, we talk a lot about active and embodied learning. This is the idea that when we use our bodies to interact with information, our brains can more easily move that info from short-term memory to deep understanding.

When a student physically leans in to see a beating heart in Merge Explorer, or tilts their head to see a Roman artifact in Object Viewer, they aren't just passive observers. They are active explorers. This kinesthetic connection helps concepts click.

Multiple Interaction Modes for Deeper Engagement

By combining Head Tracking with our other interaction modes—like 3D mode and our classic Merge Cube mode—we’re giving students tools to explore digital 3D content in natural and intuitive ways that leads to deeper engagement in the content.

The New Merge.

Introducing the all-new Merge 3D, made for the web.

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The transition to Merge 3D is all about empowering the next generation to explore, learn, and create in 3D without the hurdles. Head Tracking is just one of the ways we’re making the "impossible" feel like a standard Tuesday in the classroom.

We can’t wait for you to lean in (literally!) and see it for yourself.

Ready to see the world differently? Subscribe now to stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to launching the new Merge 3D Dashboard!