A few years ago I had the luck to see, first hand, the first augmented reality commercial apps being developed in Romania. They were interesting, but were lacking a lot of features concerning the proper image detection techniques, 3D model management and putting all that in a functional app. Now after a short period of time Microsoft has announced the launch of Microsoft Hololens, which is the first viable technology, in my opinion, that can bring AR to a form that can make daily usage possible.
Now to understand. What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality is viewing real life elements, images, patterns and shapes as more, having them augmented by computer generated content that can be interacted with or not. One of the initial examples for AR is the transformation of 2D graphics into 3D graphics through the screen of your smartphone or tablet.
Augmented reality has applications in real world using this concept in learning, brand identity, entertainment, medical, industrial design and more.
Microsoft has pushed this to a whole new level through its Hololens glasses which are using augmented reality to provide the user with computer generated content which can easily connect not only to 2d graphics but with everything in his house from a blank wall to a piece of furniture, making the interaction dynamic and more useful by not disabling the user forcing him to use his smartphone, bringing AR elements everywhere in your daily activities.
Please give a look to the following YouTube video for more details:
The Microsoft Hololens…
…are bringing the holographic and AR technology in your office and in your house:
- No cords, no phones, no wires, no tethers.
- Your world is your canvas.
- Transparent lens and advanced sensors allow you to see your world and move confidently in it.
- Lightweight and adjustable to fit any adult head size. Work and play comfortably.
- Built-in spatial sound lets you hear holograms wherever they are in the room with pinpoint precision.
- Next-generation technology enabled by Windows 10.
Hololens is built using Windows 10 related technology and I think this deserves a review of the new OS as soon as possible.
sources: www.microsoft.com/microsoft-hololens and en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augmented_reality