Windows company Microsoft is set to launch the public preview of its virtual reality platform, Microsoft Mesh later this month. This preview will introduce a new Teams experience for users and allow access via desktop.
Early adopters from organisations like Accenture, DXC Technology, PwC, Takeda, Telefonica, and the World Economic Forum are already actively utilising the platform. According to Microsoft in a blog post, their Work Trend Index annual report indicates that over 50% of employees are receptive to innovative immersive experiences for meetings and team activities.
The software giant went on to assert that its Microsoft Mesh’s 3D immersive environments will contribute to making virtual meetings and events resemble in-person interactions more closely. Adding that users can access these immersive environments through Teams by using a PC or a Meta Quest VR device for a more immersive experience.
New ways to connect
Nicole Herskowitz, vice president of Microsoft Teams said, “Flexible work is here to stay, but we need new ways to connect when we’re physically apart. Today, we announced that Microsoft Mesh is entering public preview in October on desktop and headset with a new Microsoft Teams experience – taking how we connect virtually to the next level.”
Microsoft Mesh will provide users with options to select avatars and immersive environments. It also includes seating arrangements within meetings and offers spatial audio with distinct audio zones within the virtual environment. Also, interactive team-building games are accessible, along with live reactions like a heart symbol, a thumbs-up, or applause to help participants express themselves during meetings.
“Microsoft Mesh is not merely another innovation, but a solution that enables your distributed workforce to connect like never before in a 3D immersive space, helping virtual meetings and events feel more like face-to-face connections,” added Herskowitz.
Mesh also provides the capability to design personalised immersive spaces, catering to particular events, training sessions, guided tours or product presentations. These spaces can be created using a no-code editor or by leveraging the full capabilities of Unity.
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.
