Microsoft Windows Mixed Reality HMDs to run Steam content

by Mark Tyson on 29 August 2017, 09:31

Tags: Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Dell (NASDAQ:DELL), Valve

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Ahead of IFA 2017 (starts this Friday 1st Sept) Microsoft has provided an update about what Windows Mixed Reality (VR & AR) hardware and software to expect in time for Xmas. It promises to deliver "easy setup, affordable gear, a range of hardware choices, and immersive experiences," to the market. Yesterday it detailed a few initiatives which will help make those promises happen.

Easy and affordable

Microsoft says that existing high-end VR headsets are neither easy to setup, nor affordable. Windows Mixed Reality headsets have built-in sensors so that you setup won't require room sensors to track your physical position. Thanks to its HDM and controller partnerships with makers such as HP, Lenovo, Dell, and Acer, Microsoft will also make VR experiences more affordable with bundles of VR hardware (HMD and controllers) starting at US$399. Check out the new Dell Visor, for example. It is connected to a PC via a single USB Type-C connector and boasts a 1440x1440 screen for each eye.

For the accompanying PC Microsoft says that you will be able to get a VR capable one for $499. It later spells out what the entry level is capable of as follows:

  • Windows Mixed Reality PCs: will consist of desktops and laptops with integrated graphics. When plugged into these devices, our immersive headsets will run at 60 frames per second.
  • Windows Mixed Reality Ultra PCs: will consist of desktops and laptops with discrete graphics. When plugged into these devices, our immersive headsets will run at 90 frames per second.  

Steam Halo

Windows Mixed Reality needs some software to make it an attractive proposition and what better library for entertainment than Steam? In its latest blog post Microsoft confirms that Steam VR content will run on Windows Mixed Reality headsets. It isn't just relying upon third party content though, it has already lined up Minecraft VR and yesterday it announced that it is "working with 343 Industries to bring future Halo experiences into mixed reality".

Microsoft plans to reveal more Windows Mixed Reality news at its IFA keynote on Friday.

HEXUS Forums :: 6 Comments

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Posted by Wrinkly - Tue 29 Aug 2017 21:49
60fps while the Rift and Vive target 90?
Posted by gordon861 - Wed 30 Aug 2017 09:02
Wrinkly
60fps while the Rift and Vive target 90?

Windows Mixed Reality Ultra PCs: will consist of desktops and laptops with discrete graphics. When plugged into these devices, our immersive headsets will run at 90 frames per second.

From this line I assume that if you have a capable PC it will instead run at 90fps.

These headsets also look like they have cameras that should allow you to see through the headset, so I assume you could set them up to view a keyboard or HOTAS. With the right setup software you should be able to define a what is visible throughout the whole visible sphere around you.

edit: watching a couple of other videos the things on the front seem to be sensors and not cameras, oh well.
Posted by SylvanSagacious - Wed 30 Aug 2017 10:08
It's mixed reality so there would have to be some sort of camera for Augmented stuff to work.
Posted by Xlucine - Thu 31 Aug 2017 22:17
60fps with integrated graphics is neat
Posted by Wrinkly - Sat 02 Sep 2017 19:36
Utter fail. Seems these headsets require you to be looking at the controllers to know where they are.

Impossible to serve a tennis ball as the headset can't see the controller above your head.
Impossible to shoot the bad guy sneaking up behind you as the headset can't see the controller behind your back.
Impossible to shoot the bad guy on the right if you are looking left.

These are the things we take for granted with both the Rift and the Vive.

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