Microsoft reports new VR headsets for Windows 10, beginning at $299
Microsoft’s partners will ship a new line of virtual
reality headsets to take advantage of Windows 10’s VR and holographic
capabilities. At today’s event, Microsoft said that the headsets will
start at $299 and will include inside-out tracking sensors, obviating
the need for external cameras or laser systems like those on the current
Oculus Rift or HTC Vive. HP, Dell, Lenovo, Asus, and Acer are all
listed as partners.
While relatively little is known about the headsets, the six-degree-of-freedom tracking system sounds similar to Oculus’ Santa Cruz prototype,
which also includes inside-out tracking. They are distinct from
Microsoft HoloLens, an augmented or “mixed” reality headset that
projects virtual objects into the real world. While the headsets don’t
need external trackers, the one we saw on stage today still looks to be
wired, not totally self-contained like Santa Cruz.
Microsoft’s listed partners are all already working in VR to some extent. Acer is working with Star…