Microsoft announces HoloLens: augmented reality and holograms in the future of the computer
Microsoft has unveiled a futuristic accessory that, by itself, be able to compete with Google Glass and Oculus Rift. Looking at both the user and occasional gamer, HoloLens is the first holographic computer independent world. The launch of Microsoft was full of news: there was talk of Windows 10, the future of the mobile platform of Redmond, but also the future of the computer, in an era in which it becomes increasingly personal. In this regard, Microsoft showed HoloLens, what he calls the first holographic computer independent world.
HoloLens is a helmet for augmented reality in which the environment comes to life thanks to a series of APIs that Microsoft calls Windows Holographic. Combining sensors and microchips viewer (including Holographic Processing Unit, undefined) that is at the center of the system, the software technologies permitted by the new API, the user can interact with three-dimensional elements recreated in the surrounding space.
It is a first approach to a type of computer ” more personal and human ” and less tied to the machine, as announced by Microsoft. When HoloLens wear, or any helmet compatible with Windows Holographic technology, the user will be within a virtual space that doubles as a ” user interface “. The various elements, defined holograms, are also universal Windows applications (and vice versa) that the same can enable developers to unconventional work environment.
HoloLens works independently, a feature on which Microsoft has beaten a lot in the process of presentation should not be connected to the PC or smartphone and does not need any cables. It should simply be worn. We could not miss, during the event, the canonical invitation to developers, including were mentioned specifically those who have already been pushed to the programming on similar systems – but at the same time very different – as Oculus, Magic Leap and Google Glass.
The success of a solution of this type is related to the one that can give more than current technologies. We are talking about another attempt to reform a product category that has been consolidated in the daily user of mass, that of the personal computer, and that he had to fight numerous revolutions, winning them. Smartphones, tablets and augmented reality have threatened the dominance of the PC on the floor number, but still it is these remain the most productive and ” more comfortable ” to be used in conjunction with a mouse and keyboard.
HoloLens represents a huge step forward in the technology of wearable, especially considering that behind boasts one of the biggest giants in the industry. But beware: its goal is not to replace the entire personal computer, but to complete the user experience with a product that allows you to create content, communicate and access information in a new and – why not – even fun. Remains to be seen the way in which Microsoft will convince potential customers to wear a helmet so little discreet in public discourse similar to that feasible with Google Glass.
Based on the reports of the first who tried the technology is clear that a device of this type is well suited especially with playing those video games not too complex in terms of gameplay. The prime example is Minecraft, owned by Microsoft, in which the player can immerse yourself in the game environments and manipulate the elements of the world around them with their own hands, without the use of an external controller itself.
But new technologies ” holographic ” Microsoft are also suitable assignments every day, with the ability to view the app universal as an integral part of our furniture, with the home environment that turns into work environment. Holographic HoloLens and Windows are the result of the work of years, according to revealed by the company during the presentation, and the mingling of many technologies, hardware and software, acquired by Microsoft in the course of his long career.
The official website of Microsoft for more information of HoloLens.
