Think of them as Google Glasses for Porsche dealership service technicians — except that these devices, unlike their ill-fated predecessors, actually work.
Porsche Cars North America is completing the rollout of its Tech Live Look program at its 189 U.S. dealerships. The effort uses online augmented-reality technology to enable dealership techs to communicate directly with Porsche's Atlanta-based technical support team about thorny repair issues in real time in such a way that the factory experts see what the tech sees.
This collaboration happens when the technician dons lightweight glasses with advanced projection technology, including a high-resolution video camera. A mechanic's flashlight illuminates the darkest nooks and crannies under a vehicle's hood or other difficult-to-see areas. Special earphones enable the dealership tech to speak with experts at Porsche's U.S. headquarters.