Affordable Augmented Reality: ASUS Plans to Release Headset in 2016

A New Reality

Augmented reality superimposes computer-generated images on a user’s view of their environment, essentially providing a composite view of the real and virtual world. Most researchers studying its impact and implications believe devices such as augmented reality headsets will prove to be essential in the evolution of media and gaming.

Now Asus has announced plans to introduce a flagship product into the augmented reality marketplace—its own augmented reality headset that could take the premium Microsoft HoloLens head on.

The exact price of the device has yet to be announced, however, discussions surrounding Asus’ plans from previous months indicate that the Taiwanese brand’s offering will cost less than the $3000 HoloLens, which is a tad to expensive for your everyday individual. These reports also indicate that the device is slated for a 2016 release to software developers.

"It should be next year when we come out with a product," CEO Jerry Shen said in an interview with CNET, adding "we think AR (Augmented Reality) will be very important for people's lives." 

Accessible Technology

Asus’ entry into the market makes accessibility of the technology for mainstream users a reality. While Microsoft may have beaten Asus to the punch when it comes to unveiling the technology, adoption of the HoloLens is limited by virtue of its price. 

A low-cost alternative for the headset means more people can experience and eventually adopt the technology, which could pave the way for augmented reality to redefine traditional media consumption.