Holographic technology is undoubtedly one of the most exciting areas the future of computing is keen to offer. Microsoft's HoloLens, announced in 2015, is the first wearable holographic computer that provides an augmented reality experience. In contrast to virtual reality, users are able to interact with the real world.
This week, Windows Central determined the specs of the $3,000 headset using the AIDA64 tool. As it turns out, none of the gear's hardware is impossible to pack, one of them an Intel Atom processor that is based on Airmont and Braswell - the type used for low-priced tablets and notebooks, Slash Gear notes. This process, however is 64-bit capable.
The gear is found to run on 32-bit Windows 10.0.11802.1033, HoloLens Graphics GPU, 114MB dedicated video memory, 980MB shared system memory, 64GB storage (54.09GB available), 2GB of RAM, 900MB app usage memory limit, 16,500 mWh battery, 2.4MP (2048x1152) camera photos, 1.1MP (1408x792) camera videos and a video speed of 30fps.
Apparently, the expensive cost of the gear is believed to be caused by the sensors needed to transform one's physical environment into an AR-sensitive space. Windows Central is convinced that such price will likely drop eventually, when the Redmond giant is able to scale up production. Keep in mind that the current edition is designed for developers, so regular consumers still have to wait for updates.
Describing his experience, CNET's Sean Hollister feels the HoloLens is "nothing like" the Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, since these two are VR platforms (in other words, worlds that are completely virtual and in no way blend with the actual environment). The reviewer notes that the product is not ready for consumer launch; for one, do not expect such holograms to be all around one's view. They are only at the center, existing "within a box."
That being said, the HoloLens may still be far from the regular, high school student's reach, but it sure is on its way.
