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Unfortunately, it appears that Microsoft HoloLens could last only 2.5 hours of intensive gameplay, so it’s possible that it won’t be a gamer’s first choice. Virtual reality (VR) is charging full steam ahead, but augmented reality (AR) is not so far behind. Both technologies will have their dedicated fields, in theory.
Microsoft’s ambitious HoloLens headset will attempt to bring the best of both worlds. It will combine simple gaming with practical applications that will be used for professional means. That includes fields such as medicine, education, architecture, engineering, and many others that could find exceptional use of the high-end tech gadgets.
Microsoft HoloLens will soon join the market among upcoming titans such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive Pre. The two will be major contenders in terms of gaming, so it remains to be seen how good Microsoft’s AR headset would fare. While not much is known about capabilities, availability, and price, Bruce Harris shed a little light on the matter.
2.5-5.5 hours on a single charge
Harris, a Microsoft Technical Evangelist, spoke at a Tel Aviv event about the upcoming headset in terms of its battery life and connectivity options. Battery lifespan is one of the greatest concerns as the device will be wireless, and there will be no wired version made available, according to Harris. Microsoft HoloLens will last 5.5 hours on a single charge for the average user.
However, its battery will be quickly depleted after intensive use.
When faced with higher requirements, HoloLens will last a mere 2.5 hours on a single charge. Gaming is one field that would have intense needs of resources, so it’s possible that HoloLens might not be up to the task. At the very least, not without ample frustrations from gamers. As an example, the Wii U controller has a battery life of between 3 to 5 hours, and it has been named as one of the flaws of the Nintendo console.
According to Harris though, the battery capacity might improve with time, particularly until the device reaches stores. Otherwise, it’s possible that it will not be able to hold itself up against others such as Oculus Rift or HTC Vive Pre. It may be that HoloLens will simply focus on practical software and smaller apps instead of gaming.
15-inch monitor display
However, connectivity will be universal. Microsoft HoloLens will be WiFi and Bluetooth enabled, and any Windows 10 device will be compatible. The display, so far, will be as formerly reported, two feet away from the user’s face and on the scale of a 15-inch monitor. The relatively narrow field of view was made for the purpose of keeping the user’s peripheral vision clear.
In addition, there were troubles concerning “cost and battery-life” to be taken into consideration, according to Harris. Microsoft’s spokesman mentioned that the field of view could, however, widen with time.
One exciting aspect of the Microsoft HoloLens though is its capability of connecting to another AR headset. That means that two users will be able to work together and see the same things while wearing the high-end tech devices. It could prove to be one of its most exceptional traits, enough to draw many non-gamers to their device.
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