Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Computing
  3. News

Windows Holographic Shell delivers low-end VR with modest system requirements

By
Windows Holographic Shell Demo
Microsoft’s Windows Holographic Shell seems to be targeting middle-of-the-road computer builds, as recently unveiled system requirements reveal that many users will be able to experience its virtual reality interface without hardware upgrades.

The Windows Holographic Shell’s low barrier for entry will likely come as a surprise for VR enthusiasts accustomed to virtual reality’s typically high system requirements, opening up the interface to a variety of home computer setups and hardware configurations.

Related

Revealed earlier this year, the Windows Holographic Shell is an immersive virtual reality interface that allows users to manage all aspects of the Windows 10 operating system using a head-mounted display such as the Oculus Rift or the HTC Vive. In addition to giving users access to basic operating system functionality, the interface supports a variety of Universal Windows Platform apps available via the Windows Store.

Users who take the plunge with Windows Holographic Shell can manage multiple 2D and 3D apps simultaneously using a mixed-reality desktop interface. The platform also supports an optional handheld device that enables 6-degree freedom of movement for greater accuracy and enhanced multitasking.

According to a recent MSPoweruser report, Windows Holographic Shell testers can see whether they measure up to the platform’s minimum suggested requirements during setup. In order to function at a basic level, the Windows Holographic Shell requires a Windows 10 PC with 4GB of RAM, a 4-core CPU, and 1GB of hard disk storage.

Windows Holographic Shell additionally requires a DirectX 12 installation and USB 3.0 ports for VR headset integration. The interface also needs 1.5 -by-2 meters of open space within a user’s physical environment in order to accommodate multiple open windows and applications.

VR enthusiasts will note that the Windows Holographic Shell is surprisingly light in terms of hardware requirements, especially in comparison to the high-end tech needed for other VR interfaces and applications. While the Windows Holographic Shell will continue to run under certain conditions even if its minimum specs aren’t met, users will see a “you may experience issues” warning throughout, and performance will likely suffer as a result.

The Windows Holographic Shell will launch as part of Windows 10’s planned Creators Update in 2017.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Danny Cowan
Danny Cowan
Contributor
Danny’s passion for video games was ignited upon his first encounter with Nintendo’s Duck Hunt, and years later, he still…
Apple may have just leaked its VR headset’s operating system
A man using a virtual reality headset with controllers.

If the rumors are correct, Apple’s upcoming mixed-reality headset is going to be packed with advanced features, from detailed eye tracking to a blend of augmented and virtual reality. The device is going to need a powerful operating system -- and it looks like Apple might have accidentally just leaked its name.

As spotted by iOS developer Matthew Davis, an official-looking Apple GitHub repository makes reference to the name “realityOS,” and we don’t expect this was intended for public consumption given Apple’s extreme secrecy. In fact, the code refers to realityOS nine times, with hints as to its purpose and capabilities sprinkled throughout.

Read more
You won’t be taking Microsoft’s HoloLens 3 into the metaverse
Microsoft HoloLens 2

As rival Apple is rumored to be eyeing an entrance into the metaverse, Microsoft, an early proponent of mixed and augmented reality applications, is criticized for its blurry vision behind the company's own HoloLens strategy. While HoloLens notched big early wins, including scoring a U.S. Department of Defense contract, subsequent delays, project cancellations, and high-profile executive departures may have resulted in the death of the HoloLens 3. Still, despite a scathing profile by Business Insider, it appears that Microsoft remains, at least publicly, committed to its HoloLens endeavors for now. The company has gone on record to refute the publication's reporting that HoloLens 3 has been killed.

There are a number of factors that may be causing Microsoft to pivot from its early bet on HoloLens, but the Microsoft profile cited internal divisions and the lack of a unified strategy among the top reasons for concern. As a result of the chaos, it appears that the largest collateral damage to Microsoft's infighting is the cancellation of its next-generation HoloLens 3 hardware.

Read more
This Windows 11 bug is preventing basic system applications from running
A person using a laptop that is running Windows 11.

Another annoying issue is bothering some Windows 11 users. With this new bug, built-in system apps like the Snipping Tool, which is a common method for taking screenshots, refuse to work.

The good news? Microsoft has already confirmed it is working on a fix.

Read more