Back at a Windows 10 event on Jan. 21, Microsoft announced a new piece of technology that brings us even closer to science fiction (finally). While it’s nothing like Iron Man’s physical holograms (which Elon Musk is hopefully still working on), the possibilities that the tech could generate are fascinating to think about.
At the event, the tech giant announced Microsoft Holographic, a jump into the realm of augmented reality. Through a headset dubbed “HoloLens,” users are able to see and interact with holograms in the area around them, anything ranging from the Windows 8 layout to allowing NASA to walk on the surface of Mars with the Curiosity rover. It’s impressive stuff to see, even through press images and trailers.
But with this tech comes ideas for its applications. Chris Plante of The Verge has a bunch of neat ideas on what Microsoft could do with the "Lens" (yes to the "X-Men's" Danger Room), which is where the inspiration for this post comes from.
Cortana = JARVIS?
In the Marvel films, the home of Tony Stark (Iron Man) is linked to the artificial intelligence program, JARVIS. Because "HoloLens" uses holograms and voice commands, I’m hoping Microsoft drops its Siri-like digital assistant, Cortana, into the mix to follow commands for a full hands off experience no matter the task. And with Cortana growing smarter and evolving, having full artificial intelligence capabilities would be a dream come true.
The Kinect that could be
An answer to Nintendo's "Wii," Microsoft’s motion-tracking sensor, "Kinect," had great ideas marred by its overall mediocrity. No one bought it, many (not all) of the games that came out for it were terrible, and the motion tracking could be hit or miss on any given day.
With "HoloLens" allowing for a greater range of motion than the "Kinect" and the benefit of being cordless, the holograms could play with our surroundings enough to give a sense of immersion no matter the game. Naomi Alderman, a technology and gaming columnist for The Guardian, has an article on the "HoloLens" that has a cool bit on mobile gaming with the device in the future.
Expanding Machinery
What if machinists, mechanics or anyone in a trade could digitally plan out a repair job before beginning their work? For example, imagine an augmented car engine designed to have the same problems as the engine a machinist is working on. Through "HoloLens," the machinist could test out various solutions on the augmented engine before using the proper solution on the actual piece, and even “explode” it for a more detailed view inside. This could save time and would put less risk on the owner’s car. The same could go for other trades such as electricians and building maintenance crews.
Depending on developers and Microsoft’s own ambition behind the device, there’s a lot to look forward to for the "HoloLens," and I can’t wait to see what’s next. I’m just hoping the company doesn’t promise too much and have the end result fall flat over time.
Reach the reporter at djulienr@asu.edu, or on Twitter @legendpenguin
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