Microsoft has officially announced the minimum specs to enjoy virtual reality on Windows 10 machines, and it actually doesn't take a lot.
During its WinHEC event in Shenzhen, the company finally offered the full details on the minimum spec requirements for its VR or "mixed reality" platform, Windows Holographic.
Worthy of note, the requirements are lower than those for Oculus or HTC's VR offerings, and compatible VR headsets will work with integrated graphics starting with Intel's Kaby Lake processor series.
Official Windows 10 VR System Requirements
Microsoft's minimum Windows 10 VR specs already leaked last month, but here are the official system requirements.
• CPU: Intel Mobile Core i5 (e.g. 7200U) dual-core with Hyperthreading equivalent
• GPU: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 (GT2) equivalent or greater DX12 API Capable GPU
• RAM: Integrated graphics require a minimum 8 GB of RAM (dual channel)
• HDMI: For Windows 10 VR, systems need HDMI 1.4 with 2,880 x 1,440 at 60 Hz, HDMI 2.0, or DP 1.3+ with 2,880 x 1,440 at 90 Hz
• Storage: A minimum 100 GB of storage is necessary; SSD is preferred, but HDD works as well
• USB: Either USB 3.0 Type-A or USB 3.1 Type-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode will do the trick
• Bluetooth: Accessories will need Bluetooth 4.0 or above
Project Evo
Microsoft decided on the minimum system requirements for VR by collaborating with Intel. The two companies are working on Project Evo to deliver an immersive mixed reality experience through Windows 10 PCs. As a reminder, Intel and Microsoft are also working on Project Alloy.
In its latest announcement, Microsoft also said that it has submitted its HoloLens for approval in China, aiming to make its headset available to Chinese developers in the first half of next year.
Windows 10 VR Headsets
Developers will be able to test Windows 10 VR headsets starting in February, and Microsoft will offer developer kits at the Game Developers Conference. Retail Windows 10 VR headsets from various companies such as Asus, Acer, HP, Dell, and Lenovo will also become available next year.
"Windows is the only platform unifying the mixed reality ecosystem, providing inside-out tracking for HMDs, a single platform and standardized inputs for developers, and a consistent interface with a single store for customers," touts Microsoft.
It remains to be seen just how the Windows 10 VR experience will be and what more it will entail, but it won't be like HoloLens.
All in all, Microsoft wants to make mixed reality mainstream in 2017 and it's making notable efforts to achieve its goal, and the minimum system requirements are good news for VR fans.
