Microsoft Hololens brings new meaning to virtual reality
Virtual reality has slowly been creeping into our lives. The first modern head mounted devices, released in 2015, were the Oculus Rift and the Samsung Gear VR. With the prices ranging between $100 and $200, Google decided to also release an affordable version in 2014 that only uses a phone and a cardboard frame. This mind blowing technology is taking the world by storm.
Most virtual reality devices close users off from the real world, only allowing them to see what is on the screen in the device less than an inch away from them. The newest virtual reality device is the Microsoft Hololens, a VR device that projects “holograms” onto objects in the real world. It is a piece of technology like no other.
The Hololens works by projecting light into the user’s eyes through a transparent lens. This allows 3-D designs to be seen in the world as if they were really there.
First, a camera looks at the room it is in and the objects within. It then proceeds to track the user’s movement so that the individual can get up and move around, and the objects will stay stationary. It also allows the user to use hand motions to interact with the objects in front of them. For now, it is restricted to a one finger click on the objects.
The Hololens has a variety of uses. For instance, it can be used for instruction. People using Skype to video chat can draw right into the Hololens’ field of view. It can also be used for design purposes. Instead of looking at a computer for a 3D model, users can see their model right in front of them and even move around it.
Most things can become a game with the technology. Imagine how much more fun it would be to punch a punching bag if the image of a boxer was imposed upon it, or if the blocky world of Minecraft was spread out right under your fingertips.
Typically, when homeowners are buying new curtains or a painting, they try and buy the ones that best fit the style of their home. With the Hololens, this is no longer a concern. Now they can position it on the wall wherever they want or put in new curtains without even purchasing them because they would be projected with the Hololens.
The possibilities with the Hololens are endless. As the interface and software evolves, we can expect much more out of it.
