The researchers are using a combination of GPU-accelerated algorithms and eye tracking to create a hologram display with a generation rate of 90Hz-260Hz.
Using real-time eye tracking, the prototype – which is shaped like a pair of glasses – can match image focus to eye focus, rendering areas of the hologram which the user’s eye is focussing on while blurring out unfocused areas.
The prototype also features vision correction, which can correct near and far-sightedness in addition to more complex problems such as astigmatism.
Microsoft said the form factor and displays of the prototype glasses were promising, but the computing is currently done using external drivers. This means significant challenges remain in creating a standalone, lightweight holographic device.
The paper comes a few weeks after Facebook talked about building AR glasses. Snap, which sells camera sunglasses for its Snapchat messaging app, has introduced AR software features, although it has not yet indicated it's working on proper AR glasses. Apple is also thought to be developing AR technology.
As a research endeavor, this new Microsoft hardware might not ever be mass-produced, although it does indicate some people inside the company are interested in exploring different shapes and sizes for its holographic technology.
