At the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco, USA, the microprocessor maker demo-ed Project Alloy, a standalone virtual reality headset allowing wearers to explore and interact with a virtual world while keeping one foot firmly in reality.
The headset was presented by Intel CEO Brian Krzanich, who claimed that Project Alloy completely redefines what's possible from a VR device. In fact, Project Alloy offers a new immersive experience thanks to Intel RealSense technology, which notably monitors the various movements of the body.
The headset is a completely standalone device, with no need to hook up to a computer or external sensors, so wearers can move around and explore virtual environments with total freedom. It is, however, equipped with several cameras that scan the surrounding environment so that wearers can also interact with real-world objects when the need arises. This could be climbing stairs or opening a door, for example, or raising a glass to toast with another person. Intel is calling this approach to VR "merged reality."
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Although Project Alloy won't necessarily end up being released commercially, it's a formidable showcase for Intel's RealSense cameras (short- and long-range), which are already found in certain hybrid PCs. In 2017, Intel plans to open up this ecosystem to developers looking to create their own headsets and/or custom environments.
Note that Intel is still working in close collaboration with software giant Microsoft (who already caused a stir with their HoloLens VR glasses) in the fields of virtual and augmented reality.
Two major new virtual reality headsets are due out this fall, with the Oculus Rift landing in Europe September 20, followed by the PlayStation VR on October 13.
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