Microsoft looks to be hedging its bets on the future of work with VR and AR headsets, or mixed reality as Microsoft refers to them. Microsoft has already dabbled with Windows Mixed Reality VR headsets, but it never produced its hardware, and the software development was subpar in comparison to more established players such as Oculus (now Meta Quest), Valve, and HTC. Microsoft has increased its investment in HoloLens, an augmented reality device that it has marketed to enterprises as the future of collaboration.
Meta now has a significant friend in its quest to make the metaverse a reality, but there are obvious hints that it will be a difficult environment to master. Meta has been trying for years to get into the business market with its Office platform but integrating more closely with Microsoft Teams in VR is a clear admission of defeat when it comes to the future of workplace productivity and collaboration software. Last year, Microsoft’s Meshwork for Teams was very stunning in virtual meetings, so it would be fascinating to see how the firm brings it to life in Meta’s Quest headgear.
This collaboration is currently in its early stages, with more information on when these experiences will be available coming in the coming months. Expect to hear more about Teams and even Microsoft’s 3D metaverse avatars tomorrow, when the firm holds its Ignite conference in Seattle to explore the future of work, security, and other topics.
