The current buzz around VR (Virtual Reality) & AR (Augmented Reality) has made us all aware of what these terms mean, but what of Mixed Reality (MR), a new concept, which begs definition.
Obviously, it’s a mixture of VR & AR, & it’s very much the thing if Microsoft’s development objectives are anything to go by. Windows 10 is specifically built to support Mixed Reality, although for the applications that exist, it’s much more VR than AR. Microsoft, as well as many other vendors, such as Google & Apple, See VR & AR as the future of computing, & they are determined to make these concepts accessible & mainstream.
Basically, MR comes with sensors for defining the environment, so that the user can move around within their space, react & alter the virtual world they’re viewing. Equipment needed to interact with an application involves a combination of a headset & handheld ‘joystick-like’ controllers, which are used as event triggers & reactors.
Microsoft has collaborated with hardware manufacturers to bring their concept to life, & various offerings from top producers, like Samsung & Acer, are available for consumers to buy. Importantly, these devices are relatively reasonably priced when costed against predecessors, such as the Oculus Rift. Prices range from around $220 to $499, with most under $300. These prices mean that Mixed Reality is a more affordable pastime for the average man right now, than either VR or AR have been in the past.
Microsoft has over 2500 applications on offer from StreamVR & the Microsoft Store to satisfy almost any type of Mixed Reality diversion a person could possibly think of, from gaming, through virtual travel to artistic creativity, Microsoft has the options covered.
Powered by the latest 8th gen Intel Core processors, Windows Mixed Reality-ready PCs range from lightweight & portable, to gaming powerhouses.
– Microsoft
If you’d like to know if your PC is Mixed Reality compliant, simply download the latest Windows 10 update & run the Windows Mixed Reality PC Check app. Once assured that your PC is capable of engaging, plug in your chosen headset & you’re ready to immerse yourself in a Mixed Reality experience option. To make life easier, Microsoft have labeled all new Mixed Reality compliant PCs with a badge.
Clearly, Microsoft has made every effort to inform & supply consumers with the tools & information to make themselves Mixed Reality ready, from the latest PCs(with touch screens) to headsets & controllers, everything you need to discover Mixed Reality is on its Website.
Image Credit: Microsoft
