The HoloLens is an augmented reality headset manufactured and designed by tech giant Microsoft, the device is expected to hit the market sometime this year and even though it is not out yet, some companies are already vying for competition. Lenovo has this idea of developing a virtual-reality headset that could potentially rival the HoloLens once it hits the market.
While virtual reality devices are slowly popping up from notable tech companies, Microsoft is developing something different. The HoloLens is an augmented reality headset in which virtual objects are superimposed on top of the physical world.
Tech experts are predicting that both augmented reality and virtual reality will be the fasting growing tech market for this year. Since the market is still in early conception, several tech companies are vying to take a piece of the action.
The latest to throw its towel into the foray is Lenovo, which recently announced that it is interested into developing either a virtual reality or augmented reality device, according to CIO. Lenovo and Microsoft has a long history of partnership, and the former's decision to enter the growing virtual and augmented reality market did not strike many analysts as an odd move.
Aside from developing its own hardware, Lenovo can also apply to license the HoloLens technology from Microsoft. This will allow Lenovo to jump directly into creating content rather spend an arduous time in developing its own hardware.
According to PC World, Lenovo chief technology officer Peter Hortensius said that the company can develop its own hardware should the need arises or depending on the demand of the market. Lenovo has already delved deep into the hardware market with its own line of smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops and TVs.
Lenovo has also funneled millions towards its research and development arms. The division focuses mainly on laptops and server related technologies.
Hortensius claims that augmented and alternative reality has many application aside from providing exceptional gaming experience. He added that the technology has several commercial applications specifically in troubleshooting and training.
When Microsoft announced the HoloLens, the tech giant highlighted the headset's medical application through a demo with a group of medical students. The company said that HoloLens can help medical practitioners train in surgery.