The Microsoft HoloLens Development Edition is now open for pre-order, with Microsoft stating it will begin shipping March 30, carrying a price tag of US$3,000.Just over a year since Microsoft first took the wraps off its augmented reality device, developer applicants will start receiving invitations to purchase the development edition, which Microsoft states will start shipping in the US and Canada at the end of the month.
“We believe that the future is holographic, and as a result, we will continue to empower the developers who will help bring that future to life,” Microsoft’s Alex Kipman wrote via a blog post.
The Windows 10 HoloLens is powered by a custom-built Microsoft Holographic Processing Unit and an Intel 32-bit architecture, employing “see-through holographic lenses that use an advanced optical projection system to generate multi-dimensional full-colour holograms”, with a holographic density of 2.5K radiants.
“HoloLens contains advanced sensors to capture information about what you’re doing and the environment you’re in,” Kipman wrote. “The built-in cameras also enable you to record mixed reality captures (MRC) – HD pictures and video of the holograms in the world around you that you can share with others even when they don’t have a HoloLens.
“With HoloLens 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.”
Bluetooth 4.1 allows pairing with accessories, while the HoloLens’ battery life provides 2-3 hours of active use.
Via a separate blog post, Microsoft’s Kudo Tsunoda has advised that HoloLens applications that will be available will include HoloStudio, allowing users “to easily create 3D in 3D” and HoloTour, allowing users “to transport to a different location and experience it like they are really there”, while Actiongram will allow developers “to experience a completely new holographic storytelling medium”.
Skype will also be available, along with three games, Fragments, “a mixed reality crime drama that unfolds in your own environment”, platform game Young Conker and first-person shooter RoboRaid.
