Virtual worlds as used in flight simulators and video games are highly fascinating in that they change and enhance the way of perception, allowing users to interact in a world beyond physical reality. The Microsoft HoloLens offers a new kind of experience based on holographic representation technology. This wireless computer comes in the shape of a curved visor that projects holograms in the user’s physical environment. Users can both place the holographic objects and interact with them. The main innovation of HoloLens is that rather than trying to block users from reality and their environment, it embeds the holographic objects into the world around them. The way the unit is operated is highly enticing: users interact via an interface of natural appearance – using gaze, voice as well as hand gestures. HoloLens was therefore equipped with very high computing power, and it features multiple sensors, speakers as well as a high-performance holographic processing unit. The visor was optimised ergonomically for peripheral viewing and uses infrared light to dimensionally track not only the user’s hand gestures but also the room around the user. Its spherical visor understands where users are looking, it recognises their voice commands and can spatially map their surroundings. The self-sufficient holographic representations of Microsoft HoloLens create a consistently enhanced reality – a reality that captivates and lifts users into new spheres.
Statement by the Jury
The Microsoft HoloLens seamlessly merges computer-generated worlds with human perception and experience. It translates the latest in technology into a new form for the highest possible level of user experience. The device understands gestures, body movements and voice commands and turns them into holographic representations. Offering an innovative approach toward interaction, it opens up new worlds and fascinates with a design honed toward ergonomic convenience.
