Virtual Reality (VR) and holographic technology are no longer just figments of our imagination with these latest gadgets from Samsung and Microsoft
It is without a doubt that VR and Holographic Technology are in the next big frontier of both the entertainment and computer industries.
The technology we once knew to be just science fiction is no longer that distant or impossible. In fact, it is already here and it really isn’t as scary as it may seem to be.
With the introduction of Samsung’s Gear VR Innovator Edition, powered by Oculus Technology, and Microsoft’s HoloLens, we move one step closer to this new reality that is set to bring us endless hours of pure entertainment and, in the process, help to make certain tasks more convenient.
For example, you no longer have to turn on your computer in order to play games, watch a movie or surf the Internet.
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Samsung Gear VR Edition
When it comes to leading technology for smartphone devices, you can bet your last dollar that Samsung would have a part in it. Take its latest VR gadget to hit our shores for example, the Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition powered by Oculus Technology. For those who are not too familiar with Oculus, it is one of the pioneers of VR headsets around the world.
We had the opportunity to test out the Samsung Gear VR and, let us tell you, it was a truly immersive experience like no other. The visuals, although slightly pixelated, were lifelike enough for us to be shocked yet extremely amused at the same time.
In order to launch the VR experience, there is a dedicated mobile application for this, named Oculus, from which you download games and videos from a rather large library to be enjoyed during your VR experience.
Enjoyable Yet Battery-Draining
The Samsung Gear VR was really comfortable to wear without being excessively heavy even with a Samsung Galaxy S6 attached to it. Thanks to its ergonomic design, flexible cushioning and adjustable strap, it made VR gaming so much more pleasant.
However, the entire VR experience is extremely battery-draining. Playing a game with the Gear VR for around 20 minutes will consume around 15 per cent or more of your smartphone’s battery life.
For those who are wearing spectacles, not to worry, Samsung has got you covered. There is a knob on top of the Gear VR that allows you to calibrate the viewing angle, which in turn helps you to see the graphics better without your glasses on.
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Just one really sad feature about the Gear VR: It is only compatible with the Samsung Galaxy S6. Yes, we know, we are just as bummed out about this as you are.
The Samsung Gear VR Innovator Edition powered by Oculus Technology is only available in Frost White and retails for $298.
Microsoft HoloLens
Now this – the Microsoft HoloLens – this is holographic technology that’s clearly on steroids or from the wildest dreams of Star Trek or Tron made into reality. Who needs a computer screen anymore with the all-new and super-exciting Microsoft HoloLens headset?
As its name suggests, this works on holographic technology that projects 3D images when you put on the headset.
Its possibilities are pretty much endless, from shaping holograms to fine-tuning a design for a car. The HoloLens quite literally gives your ideas life.
Holo-Environment?
The HoloLens has a mapping feature that enables the user to mix holograms with the actual environment that he or she is in. What this means is that you’re able to place holograms in your room or office like how you would place a physical object. Like sci-fi come to life! Cool, huh?
If you are wondering how this is controlled, well, with gestures and voice of course! No wires, smartphones or a connection to a physical computer of any sort is needed.
When Microsoft says that it is changing the way that you see your world with the HoloLens, it really means business.
Unfortunately, the Microsoft HoloLens is still not yet available for sale and is still in the development stage.
By Geralyne Kaye
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