HoloLens will begin shipping on March 30, 2016, in the United States and Canada. Microsoft’s Alex Kipman says that the company will expand availability of device “further down the line.”
HoloLens tech specs
Alongside the announcement, Microsoft is also revealing the HoloLens tech specs. The headgear features a custom-built Microsoft Holographic Processing Unit (HPU) and an Intel 32-bit architecture. “The HPU is custom silicon that allows HoloLens to understand gestures and gaze while mapping the world all around you, all in real time,” and a built-in camera can record the mixed reality captures (MRC). The device also comes equipped with support for Bluetooth 4.1 to help enable accessories like the “clicker”, which comes bundled with the kit. “HoloLens has see-through holographic lenses that use an advanced optical projection system to generate multi-dimensional full-color holograms with very low latency so you can see holographic objects in your world.”
Here’s a list detailing the full hardware specifications:
What can you do with HoloLens
With the Microsoft’s augmented reality headgear “you can create and shape holograms with gestures, communicate with apps using your voice, and navigate with a glance. HoloLens understands your gestures, gaze, and voice, enabling you to interact in the most natural way possible. With spatial sound, HoloLens allows you to hear holograms from anywhere in the room, even if they are behind you.”
HoloLens apps
Microsoft notes that developers will also have access to “hundreds” of universal Windows apps (UWP) through the Windows Store, including OneDrive, Maps, Remote Desktop, People, Movie & TV, Groove Music, and Microsoft Office apps.
HoloLens resources
The company explains that the HoloLens Development Edition kit will give developers the tools they need to get started creating new experiences for the augmented reality headgear. In addition, starting immediately, developers can have access to documentation, and to the forums, to help jumpstart the creation of new experience for the new Windows 10 device. For information, Microsoft has created http://www.dev.windows.com/holographic for guides and tutorials. Other tools, such as Visual Studio projects and a “HoloLens emulator” will be available to customers starting March 30th.
How to get a HoloLens
If you want to get a Development Edtion kit there are a few prerequisites.
You need to be a developer located in the United States or Canada. You have to be a participant of the Windows Insider program for Windows 10. You’ll need to apply at this Microsoft website, once you’re accepted, you will receive an invite to purchase the kit.
Source Windows Devices Blog, HoloLens All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
