Microsoft revealed that its Windows Mixed Reality headsets, which will be featured at the upcoming IFA 2017 trade show in Berlin, will bring virtual reality technology to homes for as low as $399.
The Windows Mixed Reality platform is also revealed to be the host of the next Halo game, so fans of the massively popular franchise should definitely check out Microsoft's latest product.
Windows Mixed Reality: What's It All About?
The Windows Mixed Reality headset is Microsoft's attempt to "democratize virtual reality" by allowing all head-mounted displays to have access to virtual reality software.
One of the characteristics of Windows Mixed Reality is that the platform is very easy to setup, as it does not use the cumbersome external cameras that certain virtual reality headsets require. The Windows Mixed Reality headsets will come with built-in sensors to track the wearer's physical position, for a plug-and-play experience that offers portability.
Microsoft also said that a variety of Windows Mixed Reality headsets and motion controllers will be launched this holiday season by Acer, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Bundles for the platform will have price tags as low as $399 and will be compatible with both current and new PC models starting at $499. This makes the technology very affordable, compared to other headsets that require high-end PCs. For example, while the HTC Vive price was reduced by $200 to $599, the headset requires a powerful PC that will cost several hundreds of dollars.
Microsoft also said that it is currently working with a long list of partners to provide content for Windows Mixed Reality through the Windows Store. One of these partners is 343 Industries, the developer behind the Halo franchise.
The Next 'Halo' Game Will Be On Windows Mixed Reality
The next Halo game will not be on the Xbox One or the PC, but rather among the first wave of content that will arrive for Windows Mixed Reality.
Microsoft did not provide any specifics for the upcoming Halo title, but knowing the franchise's strengths, it will likely place the headset's wearer within a futuristic space shooter.
Other apps that are coming to Windows Mixed Reality include Rec Room, an online social virtual reality hub; Super Hot, a slow motion ninja simulator; and Hulu, a video streaming platform.
In addition to the pending arrival of Halo, Microsoft revealed that Windows Mixed Reality headsets will be compatible with Steam VR content, vastly opening up the content that customers will be able to load into the platform once it is launched in the upcoming holiday season.
