Microsoft highlighted some details regarding the company's highly-anticipated augmented reality headset called the HoloLens. The event was held in Tel Aviv and showcased the headset's battery life along with its wireless capabilities and features.
The HoloLens' features were presented by Microsoft Technical Evangelist Bruce Harris. He presented the device's battery life, claiming that it is powerful enough to make turn it into a major player in the fledgling market. Harris claims that even at its most powerful state which usually demands battery power, the HoloLens can last up to 2.5 hours. Under normal use, the HoloLens can last more than five hours.
Harris also confirmed one significant feature added into the HoloLens. He said that the augmented reality headset is "totally wireless" and can connect to any Wi-Fi network or devices that support Bluetooth connectivity. To top things up, Microsoft is planning not to release a wired version of the headset at all.
As part of Microsoft's campaign to push a universal platform for all of its supported devices and systems, the HoloLens can run virtually any application or software that is compatible with Windows 10, the company's latest operating system.
According to IGN, the HoloLens can render an augmented reality vision that is comparable to that of a 15-inch monitor situated about two feet away from the user. Harris said that Microsoft is planning to release a model with upgraded display in the future, should the HoloLens perform well in the market or when it is technologically feasible.
Microsoft is pushing the boundaries of virtual reality and interconnectivity to a whole new level. Harris revealed that the HoloLens can link with other devices over the Internet or within the same physical location like a room or office. This feature allows several users to simultaneously experience augmented reality together as a team as well as open a new possibility when it comes to collaborative efforts, according to NZ Gamer.
The HoloLens is scheduled for a release later this year. No official timeline has been revealed by Microsoft, but the company promised that it will be sooner than expected. Microsoft said that the augmented reality headset will cost $3000 once it hits the market.