Microsoft To Release HoloLens SDK and Kicks Off Local Demos
Microsoft is taking its HoloLens virtual reality glasses to the next stage of its evolution from demoware to market development. The company will release an SDK next quarter and is kicking off a multicity road show next week to provide demos of the HoloLens.
At the Windows 10 Devices launch event earlier this week, the company gave airtime to HoloLens and demonstrated a game code-named" Project Xray" that would let players engage in shooting matches with holographic guns. Besides "mixed reality gaming" and entertainment, the company's top brass is bullish on the prospect for HoloLens in a variety of industrial settings.
"Instead of immersing yourself in a world of pixels on a screen, HoloLens brings experiences into our real world, opening a new window into the future of personal computing," said Terry Myerson, executive VP for Microsoft's Windows and devices organization. "Whether it's for productivity, design, healthcare or entertainment, HoloLens creates innovative experiences that are simply not possible on any other device or any other platform."
It appears Microsoft for now wants only those serious about building commercial applications for HoloLens. Myerson said developers must apply for the SDK and fork over $3,000 per device to get their hands on it. "Now is the time we want to unlock the creativity of Windows developers worldwide," Myerson said. Among those already working with HoloLens are NASA, Autodesk and Case Western Reserve University. The road show kicks off in Seattle next week and will hit Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, Toronto, New York, San Francisco, Phoenix and Austin. All of the cities appear to be sold out currently, though you can get onto a waiting list.
Posted by Jeffrey Schwartz on 10/09/2015 at 12:00 PM