Microsoft has released a new video-capture hack for the HoloLens. Users can now record their AP experience and share it with others.
HoloLens. The HoloLens was first unveiled in January 2015. It is a pair of mixed reality smart glasses that was manufactured and developed by the Redmond-based tech giant. There was a lot of interest surrounding the headset initially but only a small community has access to it.
The HoloLens was one of the first computing devices that ran the Windows Holographic platform through the Windows 10 operating system. It was available globally by October 2016 for a hefty price tag of $3,000.
The Verge reported that virtual reality and augmented reality offer mind-blowing experiences for their users, but they are only singular experiences at the moment. Since it is hard to explain or describe one's experience, Microsoft decided to make a workaround. They came up with a hack to let users capture video with their HoloLens.
HoloLens is an untethered headset that lets users move around freely while playing with apps. It has a lightly tinted holographic lens with four different cameras as well as a unique holographic processing unit. Unlike VR, the HoloLens' augmented mixed reality allows users to see the real world but with digital objects found in apps.
In the past, app makers would have difficulty trying to show off their programs to people. Microsoft has made it much easier for them. The new hack will now offer a lucrative venue for HoloLens app makers who can make videos to show what their apps will offer. In addition, this is a great way to increase the headsets' user base which is still fairly small. The hack will help those who are on the fence understand the potential of the headset and encourage them to purchase one.
The rig is called "spectator view." It requires both specialized hardware and software and was just published as an open-source solution online at the HoloLens GitHub developers page. While this is still in its infancy stage, it is now a lot easier to make a true-to-life video that shows how a person will interact with a HoloLens app.
Gadgets 360 also reported that the hack actually involves quite a lengthy process, but at least it is more affordable. For reference, Microsoft uses an in-house rig for making promotional videos using the HoloLens and this involves a Red Dragon camera which costs between $15,000 to $50,000!
The "spectator view" hack will require a DSLR or any camera with an HDMI output. The HoloLens needs to be mounted on a custom-made mount to the camera and stabilized with a tripod. The HoloLens can then be connected to a PC to position the data. The hack is found here.
Microsoft has done a good job making the HoloLens' features more accessible. Now more app makers will be encouraged to make apps they can showcase to the world. What do you think about the new hack? Share your thoughts and comments below.
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