In the Surface event held yesterday, Microsoft unveiled the much awaited Surface Studio, a bunch of accessories and also some new software. Entering the Virtual Reality concept, Microsoft has partnered with the likes of Dell, Lenovo, Acer, ASUS and HP to make affordable VR headsets that interestingly are capable of mixed reality. For those who are not aware, Mixed Reality is when a device takes advantages of both Virtual and Real world to deliver some exceptional experience.These VR headsets are quoted to be priced at $299 and not much have been known yet.
While Acer is working with Starbreeze to produce the high-end StarVR headsets, and Asus even demoed the leather-strapped headset behind glass at Computex. On the other hand, Lenovo and Chinese startup AntVR are reportedly working on mobile VR setup. Whereas HP and Dell don’t have headsets, both are said to have produced backpack-mounted PCs. Interestingly, none of the above mentioned companies have ever produced a VR headset so it will be interesting to see what these companies have in store.
The VR headsets will come with six degree of freedom tracking and will not require separate room and complicated set up. Further, the content for these VR headsets will be produced with the Windows 10 Creators Update which will include a 3D framework designed around Microsoft’s HoloLens. The Windows 10 Creators Update will be available starting Spring 2017.
Apart from the VR headsets, Microsoft also revealed its new Paint app which was leaked earlier. The new paint app brings in new 3D artwork capabilities and integration with a new online community Remix 3D where users can share their creations and content with other people. It has been quite long since Microsoft updated its Paint app so the new 3D Paint app is a welcome showcase.