At the annual Build event, Microsoft unveiled a new feature called “Windows Volumetric Apps on Meta Quest.” This technology allows users to experience HoloLens-like 3D applications and digital objects on their Meta Quest headsets, expanding the possibilities of mixed-reality experiences.
Bringing Windows Apps to 3D space
With this innovation, Microsoft aims to extend the functionality of Windows apps into a three-dimensional space, offering users a more immersive and interactive computing experience. During the presentation, Microsoft showcased a digital exploded view of an Xbox controller through a Meta Quest 3 headset, demonstrating how users can interact with digital objects using hand gestures.
Developer preview available
Developers can now sign up for the developer preview of this feature, gaining access to a new “volumetric API” that enables them to integrate 3D content into their Windows applications. Microsoft is actively seeking developers who specialise in 3D Windows desktop applications or provide plugins for such applications to participate in this exciting opportunity.
This development follows Microsoft's shift away from its previous Windows Mixed Reality initiative, which focused on wired headsets connected to Windows PCs. By collaborating with Meta on exclusive projects like the Xbox-themed Meta Quest and introducing Office apps and Xbox Cloud Gaming to the Quest VR platform, Microsoft is embracing a new era of mixed reality experiences.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, partnerships between major players like Microsoft and Meta are reshaping the landscape of virtual and augmented reality technologies. Reports suggest that Meta is also exploring partnerships with other PC manufacturers to expand the availability of its Quest operating system on upcoming VR headsets, indicating a growing trend towards more accessible and immersive computing experiences.
