'Room2Room' is a new technology from Microsoft that aims to make video conferencing feel more natural with the aid of augmented reality technology. In order to take conversations beyond the confines of smartphones and computers, Microsoft is now making it possible for people to beam holograms to one another, creating a more realistic way to facilitate remote "face-to-face" communication.
Previously, the teams of Microsoft Research were working on a platform called RoomAlive, which made use of Kinect technology to sense depth in order to make accurate digital projections in a space. Pushing this concept further, Room2Room makes it possible to capture the likeness of a friend as they are sitting down and chatting with you, and vice versa.
The inventive Microsoft technology is set to be introduced at this year's Computer-Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing conference in San Francisco.
AR Video Calls
Microsoft's 'Room2room' Blends Augmented Reality and Video Calling
Trend Themes
1. Augmented Reality Conferencing - Using AR technology to make video conferencing feel more natural and realistic, providing an opportunity for innovation in the field of remote communication.
2. Hologram Communication - Beaming holograms to create a more realistic way to facilitate remote "face-to-face" communication, allowing for potential disruptive innovation in video calling technology.
3. Depth-sensing Projections - Utilizing Kinect technology to sense depth in order to make accurate digital projections in a space, paving the way for new innovations in digital projection and virtual communication.
Industry Implications
1. Video Conferencing - The AR and hologram technology can revolutionize video conferencing, providing a more lifelike experience that can make remote working more enjoyable and productive.
2. Digital Projection - The depth-sensing projection concept can create new opportunities for digital projection in various settings, such as entertainment, advertising, and education.
3. Remote Communication - AR and hologram technology have the potential to disrupt the way people communicate remotely, creating more realistic and seamless connections between people in different locations.