Windows 10 gets 3D and VR revamp as Microsoft Surface gets a studio

Microsoft just hosted its Windows 10 event, where it unveiled new devices built on Windows 10 as well as new capabilities for the operating system itself.

“Technology is a tool in the hands of humanity,” said Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. “A tool that helps amplify our ingenuity and creativity.

“But new computing mediums do not take shape by technology alone. It is up to the creators to seize the moment and bring this technology to life.”

CBR looks at some of the biggest announcements from the Windows event, including new devices, apps and software updates.

1. Surface

Two sets of devices were announced at the event; the Surface Studio and the Surface Book with Performance Base. They are available for pre-order from 26 October.

The Surface Studio, priced at $2,999, is targeted at the creative industries. It is designed to be used as a canvas and can be used upright or drawn on like a table.

It packs either an i5 or i7 processor and up to 32GB of RAM. The device has a 4.5k ultra HD screen, which Microsoft says delivers 63 percent more pixels than a premium television.

There are also new Surface Book models, which feature i7 processors and have twice the graphics processing power as the original Surface Book. It has 16 hours of battery life, according to Microsoft.

The devices start at $2,399.

2. Peripherals

Surface Dial is a peripheral device which integrates with Windows 10 to work with Surface devices.

It is a small round pointer that can be placed on the tablet. The Dial allows the user to more easily scroll, zoom and navigate on the tablets.

It also has additional special capabilities when connected with the new Surface Studio tablet above.

The device costs $99 USD and is available for pre-order today.

3. 3D and VR capabilities

One of the biggest announcements from the Microsoft conference was the Windows 10 Creators Update, which will bring new 3D and mixed reality capabilities to Windows 10 devices.

Set to be released as a free update at the beginning of 2017, the Creators Update will enable users to interact with their devices in 3D, whether this is creating 3D media or experiencing it.

HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Dell and Acer will ship the first VR headsets that will be capable of mixed reality using the Creators Update. They will launch in 2017.

Microsoft Edge, Microsoft’s replacement for Internet Explorer, will now be able to use 3D through the web. Microsoft’s suite of Office apps will also be able to use 3D.

4. Apps and software

Microsoft also launched some new apps that will be able to use these capabilities and devices.

Microsoft Paint has been brought up-to-date with Paint 3D, which aims to be the 3D equivalent. To go with this, a new online community called Remix 3D will enable 3D artists to collaborate online.

Microsoft also launched Windows MyPeople, which is a new feature on the Windows 10 taskbar which features the user’s most regular contacts for quick access.