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This is how Microsoft captures HoloLens videos

This is how Microsoft captures HoloLens videos

A video from Microsoft has surfaced detailing how it is capturing «high-quality free view point video» -videos we assume will be viewable through the company’s HoloLens.

Microsoft’s video explains that these videos are captured using more than 100 RGB and infra-red cameras placed around actors or performers. It then runs the captured video through multiple layering points, textures and algorithms.

It’s a complicated process from which you end up with near 360-degree 3D video of the subject that you could basically walk around and view using, say, a HoloLens.

Of course, this video capture system could also be used for VR videos as well, but it seems ideal for the augmented reality HoloLens — as the cameras point inwards to a subject, rather than outwards to an environment.

Microsoft also explains that the captured video can then be compressed into a streamable .mpeg file, with its example video compressed at a not-too-demanding 12 megabits per second, meaning even services like YouTube could potentially stream these videos.

With the HoloLens yet to be released, this video gives us an insight on the type of AR content Microsoft has in store for us.


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Acer debuts cheap Windows 10 laptops with Broadwell

Acer debuts cheap Windows 10 laptops with Broadwell

All the computer manufacturers are getting into the Windows 10 machine game and now Acer has too announced it will begin selling devices with the new operating system tomorrow.

Available starting on June 29, Acer will offer its new Aspire E series with a factory install of Windows 10 that will ship within the first week of August. That’s not exactly as fast as the free overnight shipping that HP and Dell promises, but Acer’s machine come at a nicer bargain.

Positioned for students and small businesses, the Aspire E series is built for solid performance at an affordable price. The starting Intel Core i5-5200U processor-powered model E-series laptop, for example comes priced at $499 (about £319, AU$ 681).

Convertibles 2-in-1 machines such as the Switch 10 E as well as the Aspire R11 and R13 will also come with Windows 10 preloaded.

Lastly, the Acer Aspire Z3 All-in-One desktop along with Aspire One Cloudbooks will also be available for purchase tomorrow. Acer also notes that while its Liquid M220 smartphone will only ship with Windows 8.1 for now, Windows 10 Mobile will be available this Fall.


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Amazon Launchpad debuts as storefront for startups

Amazon Launchpad debuts as storefront for startups

With the arrival of Amazon Launchpad, the giant e-commerce site has officially jumped into the startup space — at least as a helpful hand.

The program is similar to Product Hunt, Shopify and Shyp, three sites that let startups market, ship and sell their wares. The different of course, is the weight behind Amazon’s name and likely, it’s crazy fast shipping network.

Amazon Vice President Jim Adkins said in a press release:

«Amazon Launchpad gives customers access to a dedicated storefront featuring a variety of innovative new products from emerging brands. For startups, we handle inventory management, order fulfillment, customer service, and more, allowing them to focus their efforts on the innovation that results in more cool products.»

At the moment, the new storefront boasts more than 200 products from over 25 accelerators, crowd-funding platforms and venture capital firms.

Notably missing is Kickstarter though Indiegogo is part of the roster. It’s possible Kickstarter will join up with the program in the future, but right now, it looks like the virtual shelves are well stocked with odd and interesting goodies.

Via Business Wire


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