Microsoft has published details of its Mt. Rogers research project which uses VR headsets as 'head-worn productivity displays' to provide a portable and infinite screen space for users. Once the user puts on the headset they can surround themselves with as many virtual monitors as they wish, in a portable and private matter.
The Mt. Rogers research project is looking at improving traditional productivity tasks in mixed reality environments.
Mt. Rogers project goals are text readability, efficient user input and user comfort. By achieving these goals, Mt. Rogers can function as an effective monitor replacement while giving users access to the full Windows desktop and applications.
The project is looking at novel optics, new text rendering techniques and a user experience optimised for traditional productivity scenarios (ex. Office, browsing, development).
Microsoft is testing and evaluating its capabilities with three target user groups:
- “Big Screen” Users: Developers, data analysts and designers, who all demonstrably benefit from both more and larger monitors
- Mobile Knowledge Workers: Users who benefit by taking their whole office with them everywhere such as while on a plane or in a coffee shop
- Low Vision Users: Those who benefit by bringing virtual monitors closer and scaling text in ways that are impossible with physical displays
Microsoft says these tests have demonstrated that its current research prototypes allow for hours of continuous use in real-world conditions. "But the future holds even more: Headset technology is getting smaller and lighter, while resolution is only getting better. No more worrying about having enough monitor real estate at your desk or on the go. With Mt. Rogers, you can take the work space you want, wherever you want."