In March of 2016, Microsoft released its HoloLens development kits to the general public, and the HoloBeam is one of the most impressive projects that has come from that technology. The app, developed by Kansas City-based consulting firm Valorem, is a chat system that projects holographs of its users to one another.
As Valorem puts it, the HoloBeam app is a lot like the system from the opening scene of the original Star Wars movie, when R2-D2 projects a holograph of Princess Leia to convey a message to the heroes. Far from fictional, though, the HoloBeam app is fully functional thanks to the use of a virtual reality headset and the HoloLens' stereoscopic camera that captures 3D point cloud data. The system works just like any other video messaging app aside from its holographic capabilities, allowing anyone with internet connection to communicate.
Holographic Chat Apps
HoloBeam Uses Microsoft's HoloLens to Beam Holographic Projections of People
Trend Themes
1. Holographic Messaging - The rise of holographic chat apps like HoloBeam provides an opportunity for businesses to transform communication and enhance virtual interactions.
2. Augmented Reality Collaboration - The integration of virtual reality headsets and holographic projections in chat systems opens up possibilities for immersive collaborations, disrupting traditional video conferencing.
3. 3D Point Cloud Data - The use of 3D point cloud data in HoloBeam and similar apps creates opportunities for businesses to explore data visualization and analysis in a new dimension.
Industry Implications
1. Communication Technology - Companies in the communication technology industry can leverage holographic chat apps to revolutionize the way people connect and collaborate remotely.
2. Virtual Reality - The virtual reality industry can capitalize on the integration of VR headsets in communication apps, unlocking new potential for immersive experiences beyond gaming.
3. Data Visualization and Analysis - Industries involved in data visualization and analysis can utilize the 3D point cloud data captured by holographic chat apps to enhance decision-making processes and gain deeper insights.