GameSpot: First things first: What is the cross-com?

Adrian JF Lacey: The cross-com system is a completely wireless, wearable computer system with a heads-up, hands-free display that overlays information onto the soldier's vision, enabling soldiers to perform in the field faster and more effectively. This feature is based on actual military technology, which is expected to be fielded in the next couple of decades. The cross-com is the blue monocle that is shown on the players, and it shows up as a picture-in-picture window on the player's heads-up-display.

The cross-com works on the principle that a low-intensity laser projects data and images through the pupil onto the retina. The laser moves at high speed and is scanned vertically and horizontally using a coherent beam of light to create a 3D image to the soldier. The image refreshes itself every second, continually updating the information and images to the soldier.

What makes cross-com unique is that it allows a 3D image to be beamed onto one single eye, therefore reducing interference on the user's secondary source of vision. The optical projection combined with a series of automated lens filters allows the integrated warfighter to receive data from other team members, ground and air support, and headquarters without losing the key situational awareness gained by being on the ground.