I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what Microsoft has in store for VR!
http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/26/1...nnounced-price
For those out of the loop on this, Microsoft recently announced that the upcoming Windows update will have VR capabilities.
While we're still in the dark on most details, we have SOME info:
-Multiple OEMs will be making VR headsets
-It will run on their holographic platform that they're using for AR through the Hololens (but no, this isn't AR).
-We should hear more this month (December)
http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/31/1...inhec-december
-The required specs are surprisingly low, meaning even my 3-year old laptop should be capable of running the platform! We'll see what the means for graphics, etc.
http://www.theverge.com/2016/11/21/1...-minimum-specs
-It will have inside-out tracking. This is a BIG DEAL. This is the ability to offer positional tracking like in the Rift and Vive, WITHOUT a lighthouse or camera to track your position.
-Pricing will start at $299 USD.
The idea of having a VR headset capable or running on a laptop and having inside out tracking really excites me. I means that we'll have a VR system that's rather portable. While not quite as portable as mobile VR (Daydream, GearVR), it should be more capable (PC hardware vs mobile hardware) and offer that sweet positional tracking that mobile VR does not yet support. Also, at $299 for a headset that runs on relatively low-spec computers, this should remedy the cost barrier that holds many of us back from getting a Rift or Vive (due to expensive hardware that requires an expensive PC).