The tech industry has been bustling with excitement as new developments in virtual reality emerge. As major tech companies like Facebook and Sony develop their virtual reality headsets, Microsoft has begun to occupy the space of augmented reality. Unlike the Oculus Rift and the Samsung Gear VR, which produce full virtual immersion, Microsoft’s HoloLens allows users to interact with holograms in the physical world. HoloLens crosses the lines of AR and VR by projecting a virtual environment onto the user’s physical space. The applications for this technology could greatly affect anything from neurosurgery to roof repair and would even make Tony Stark jealous.

1. DEEPDIVE
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
HoloLens
Virtual reality seems to be the future of gaming, but I see more
practical uses with the HoloLens. The interactivity between reality and
technology creates a new space for ideation, creation, and learning. I
wonder if the HoloLens will be the YouTube-learning of the future. —
EMILY
“Blending worlds” is a main selling point of the HoloLens. I’m excited to
see what user-friendly applications they come out with in the next few
years. I’m sure soon it will start to replace some traditional home tech,
like my TV. — CAITLIN
AUGMENTEDREALITY
Release Date: July 2015
Usage Data: Unknown
Platform/Tech: Windows 10
Features: Holographic googles, wireless, augmented reality, full HD camera,
3D printer capabilities
MORE CONTEXTThe tech industry has been bustling with excitement as new developments
in virtual reality emerge. As major tech companies like Facebook and Sony
develop their virtual reality headsets, Microsoft has begun to occupy the
space of augmented reality. Unlike the Oculus Rift and the Samsung Gear VR,
which produce full virtual immersion, Microsoft’s HoloLens allows users to
interact with holograms in the physical world. HoloLens crosses the lines of
AR and VR by projecting a virtual environment onto the user’s physical space.
The applications for this technology could greatly affect anything from
neurosurgery to roof repair and would even make Tony Stark jealous.