Volumetric Apps

Winsage
May 12, 2025
Microsoft's annual Build developer conference will occur from May 19 to 22, focusing on new AI integrations, services, and applications for Windows. Last year's conference featured the integration of Copilot into Microsoft Teams and the introduction of AI-powered PCs. This year, deeper integrations of Copilot generative AI are expected, catering to consumer and enterprise needs. Keynotes will be streamed online for free. Microsoft raised prices on various software products by 5% last November and may use new AI features to justify these increases. Copilot is anticipated to have significant enhancements, with reports suggesting Microsoft is considering alternative AI models from xAI, Meta, Anthropic, and DeepSeek. Copilot may gain “agentic” capabilities for executing basic PC tasks, with references to an Action button found in the Copilot client for Windows. Microsoft is rumored to have developed a suite of models called MAI to compete with OpenAI’s offerings, potentially to be unveiled at Build. There are also rumors about a successor to the Azure Maia 100 AI Accelerator, possibly named “Maia 2,” with Marvell contracted for its production.
Winsage
December 26, 2024
At Ignite 2024, Microsoft announced enhanced support for Windows applications on Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S devices, allowing users to access Microsoft’s suite of tools without additional software. Users can create multiple virtual windows for multitasking, such as switching between Microsoft Teams and spreadsheets. Previously, users accessed Windows apps via Air Link, Remote Desktop in Horizon Workrooms, or third-party software. The new integration allows streaming from a Windows 11 PC or virtual Windows Cloud PC, enabling quick access to Windows applications in an XR environment. This functionality includes creating multiple virtual monitors or a single large monitor while maintaining visibility of physical surroundings. The experience is supported by a program called “Volumetric Apps.” Microsoft has discontinued its “Windows Mixed Reality” platform but continues to support XR innovators. Microsoft also announced the end of software support for HoloLens 2 in 2027 and hinted at a new deal with Samsung for OLED displays for a future mixed-reality headset.
Winsage
November 21, 2024
Microsoft announced the integration of "full capabilities of Windows 11" with Meta's Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets at the Ignite event. Users can connect their local Windows PC or Windows 365 Cloud PC to their Quest headsets in a few seconds, enabling a private workstation experience with virtual screens. While Windows cannot run natively on Quest devices, users can stream their desktop environments to the headset. Mark Zuckerberg mentioned that connecting the devices is as simple as "looking at the keyboard." The update will eliminate the need for additional software for casting features and is set for a public preview in December. Microsoft hinted at ongoing collaboration with Meta for "Windows Volumetric Apps" designed for Meta Quest headsets, although specific compatible apps have not been disclosed.
Winsage
November 20, 2024
Microsoft has partnered with Meta to integrate Windows 11 capabilities into mixed reality headsets, starting with the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S. This collaboration aims to enhance user experience in response to the popularity of Apple's Vision Pro. Users will be able to create a virtual multi-monitor workstation by connecting to a Windows 11 PC or a cloud-based Windows 365 instance, although they cannot fully replace their PCs with VR headsets. The connection process is expected to be quick, taking only seconds, and will be simpler than current third-party solutions. Mark Zuckerberg indicated that Quest users would soon only need to look at their keyboard to connect to a PC. A public preview is scheduled for December, but details on monitor support and resolution are still unclear. Microsoft has not addressed Volumetric Apps, which would allow streaming Windows to a Quest headset for 3D viewing, suggesting it may not be available at launch.
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