Microsoft Research is working on hologram video callsMumbai, Jan 27(AZINS) While Virtual Reality is on the crux of exploding into the consumer space, Augmented Reality is far behind either. Microsoft already has a developer version of their HoloLens AR headset up for grabs, and is expected to release a consumer version anytime in the next year or so. And while the HoloLens visuals are called "holograms" they're more a visual overlay visible only to someone wearing the headset. But that doesn't mean holograms aren't a thing.

The innocuously named Microsoft Research, has big plans for Augmented Reality, specifically something called the RoomAlive Project. It uses Kinect depth cameras and digital projectors to create an augmented reality "zone". For instance, the inside of your bedroom can, using RoomAlive, suddenly be occupied by members of the Fellowship of the Ring. Granted, it's still a work in progress and the visuals aren't nearly as realistic as any other examples we've seen, but it's a step forward to augmented reality without needing a headset.

But the big news is that Microsoft is reportedly taking that research and attempting to apply it to video calls. The way they visualise it, it's exactly like a Skype video call except, instead of the other person on your screen, you can each see a hologram of the person perhaps sitting on a couch across from you. Currently, the technology works with real time streaming, but the resolution and image depth is still something that needs to be addressed. Of course, the setup also involves a multi camera setup with a projector, but perhaps there is a way to minimise the technology to at least semi-portable standards.

Perhaps in a couple of years, if we're lucky enough, we'll be able to send a realistic message to Obi-Wan for help. In the meantime, here's a more pragmatic alternative.