Even though Microsoft opened its HoloLens Experience Showcase in NYC to allow developers to experiment with its new virtual reality device in December, the company has been rather reluctant to reveal any specifics about its immersive holographic headset. However, Microsoft Technical Evangelist Bruce Harris has leaked a few exciting details from his time testing the new mixed-reality gadget at an event in Tel Aviv. At the top of the list for gamers, Harris revealed the HoloLens will feature real-time multiplayer support.
Users will be able to link two or more lenses together over wi-fi. “You can be halfway around the world as long as you have network connectivity,” Harris disclosed in the Q&A YouTube video shared by Tom Warren of The Verge. “The HoloLens device itself is a fully functional wearable Windows 10 PC. Anything you can do on a Windows 10 laptop, you can do with this device,” he explained. Windows 10 apps will run natively.
However, for the HoloLens to compete as a reliable gaming console, Microsoft may have to put some more work into increasing the battery life. In the YouTube video, Harris addressed general battery life concerns. He revealed with normal use the HoloLens will last roughly 5.5 hours. With heavy use, that estimate decreases to 2.5 hours. Since the HoloLens supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to run Windows 10 apps, the range of battery life varies depending on “what you’re doing on the device.”
Harris also described viewing through the HoloLens is like looking at a 15-inch screen 2 feet away. While that sounds revolutionary, with only 2.5 hours of playtime this may not be the gadget for gamers just yet. Harris noted that if the glass is built any larger, then the failure rate goes up and increases the cost and increases battery consumption. “You’d be down to about 20 minutes on the current battery capability,” he asserted.
However after Microsoft finalizes the initial version, future headsets could get a boost in power capacity and field of view. “As the manufacturing process gets better, and the power consumption and power circuitry continues to improve, for future versions our intent is to increase the size of that.”
Harris also mentioned its innovation competitor, the Oculus Rift. “The challenge with Oculus...is currently you have an umbilical cord that is tied into the equipment so your mobility factor is very limited.” The portability and everyday capabilities of the HoloLens sets it apart from other augmented and virtual reality devices.
HoloLens dev kits will be available in a few months and run for $3,000, even more than the total price of the Oculus Rift which has stirred controversy among gamers. Back in September, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said the HoloLens development is a 5-year plan. To listen to the Bruce Harris HoloLens Q&A in full, check out the YouTube video below.
