Microsoft MR Partner Object Theory Brings AR to the Enterprise
A recent article on Channel Futures discusses Microsoft Mixed Reality partner Object Theory, and how the current Augmented Reality market is focused on the enterprise customer.
Working with Fortune 1000 organisations to deploy HoloLens and Windows MR solutions in the enterprise in a range of use cases is necessary; e.g. internal workforce utilization, customer or marketing initiatives, or media and entertainment. Raven Zachary, co-founder of Object Theory, is quoted to have said that there are a lot of strong use case verticals, and a great deal of traction in the following sectors:
- Medical
- Automotive
- Aerospace
- Public sector
- Defense
- Manufacturing
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Construction
All these verticals work with 3D content, therefore using a 2D monitor limits their use. HoloLens and Windows MR-powered devices enable users to move 3D content off a 2D monitor and into the physical world.
Object Theory is a small, three year old HoloLens software and design firm that was among Microsoft’s Mixed Reality Program’s first wave of partners in 2015. Zachary has 27 years’ worth experience within the technology industry, including mobile app design. In his Virtual Reality research, he discovered the software wasn’t compatible with the enterprise; after watching the livestream media event for the HoloLens, he realised this was the tech he wanted to focus on.
Zachary partnered with Michael Hoffman from the HoloLens team and together they founded Object Theory. They have created Prism, a technology for the HoloLens that enables remote collaboration between workers via a shared experience, which is powered by the Object Theory Mixed Reality Collaboration Service. Each member in a session is represented by an avatar, and 3D spacial sound and content sharing allows users to have a shared experience. Zachary is quoted to have said that a large auto manufacturer is currently piloting the tech to bring designers across multiple locations together which is more inclusive and immersive than a regular call.
As well as vertical markets, Zachary has a top five horizontal use cases for AR:
- Collaboration
- Remote expert
- Training
- Sales
- Product and space design (in alignment with Microsoft’s Modern Workplace)
Vertical industries dominated by 2D content, such as financial services, shouldn’t be dismissed, as some of their companies have shown interest in visualising 3D data. Zachary encourages partners to apply to Microsoft’s Mixed Reality Program. Its partner program recently expanded and is open to ISVs and digital agencies worldwide.