Microsoft HoloLens

Microsoft HoloLens is the first device built for the Microsoft Holographic platform for augmented reality running on the Windows 10 operating system. The Holographic platform is planned to work together with desktop-running Windows 10 and other Microsoft products, such as XBOX or smartphones, through common API. [1]

HoloLens is a self-contained computer that does not need additional connection to other devices. It offers augmented reality in the form of so called “holograms” [1], which are virtual elements embedded into what the user sees through the HoloLens. These holograms are pinned or anchored to real, physical elements in the environment. It also features binaural stereo speakers for providing positional audio. The control is achieved through a built-in sensor array that serves as a natural user interface that can be interacted with with gaze, voice and especially hand gestures. [5]

The display projection does not occupy the entire user’s view but only a small portion, similar to the functioning of other devices of the same category. Nate Ralph, associated editor of CNET, describes the created image as “a holographic field that feels like looking at a 20-inch screen from a few feet away.” [3]

HoloLens is strapped to the user’s head and can be further adjusted to better accommodate to the user’s needs. The controls are located above the ears at the top of the device’s frame. [2]

Main characteristics

HoloLens features depth camera with a 120x120 degrees FOV, microphone array, stereo speakers capable of binaural audio, an accelerometer, gyroscope and a magnetometer. It also features so called Holographic Processing Unit which is Microsoft’s custom build coprocessor that processes and combines data from all sensors. [2][7][13] Not much more is officially known about the further specifications of the device. Microsoft does not want to share any details concerning hardware yet. [6] Microsoft forbade anyone to bring any electronic devices to the demo area and so the available information is limited to reviews and guesses. [7][8][16]

It is speculated that the main sensor is an advanced version of the Kinect 2.0 camera and that HoloLens might contain several Intel technologies, mainly its Intel Atom Cherry Trail chipset with Intel RealSense gesture control system. [6]

Purpose

Microsoft’s official promotion text:

We envisioned a world where technology could become more personal—where it could adapt to the natural ways we communicate, learn, and create. Where our digital lives would seamlessly connect with real life. The result is the world’s most advanced holographic computing platform, enabled by Windows 10. For the first time ever, Microsoft HoloLens brings high-definition holograms to life in your world, where they integrate with your physical places, spaces, and things. Holograms will improve the way you do things every day, and enable you to do things you’ve never done before. [1]

Company & People

• Alex Kipman - Project HoloLens, Chief Inventor [12]

Important Dates

• In development since approximately 2010. [11]
• Announced at Microsoft Windows 10 keynote in January 2015. [4]
• Rumoured to be available for public in December 2015. [14]

Enhancement/Therapy/Treatment

Enhancement - HoloLens is meant to be used for entertainment and industrial use (3D modelling, collaboration in real-time).

At this stage of the development, the device does not offer any treatment capabilities, although there might be some application running on the device that could offer such features.

Public & Media Impact and Presentation

Overall, HoloLens seems to be very well received by the media. Microsoft’s embargo on any detailed technical information leaves a lot for speculation, though. Media outlets wonder mainly about the resolution of the device’s display, as Microsoft never stated an exact resolution, for example. [9] However, the overall enthusiasm for the device is not shared uniformly. [15] According to The Register, HoloLens suffers the same drawbacks as many other similar devices. The projection area is very small and the user has to look directly at the holograms to actually see them. [10]

Another common opinion found in the tech media is that with this device Microsoft hopes to renew its popularity as a tech visionary, finally offering new and ‘exciting’ technology. [12]

Related Technologies, Project or Scientific Research

• Microsoft Kinect
• Windows 10