Future of User Experience Design: Microsoft Developing 3D UI Technology
Even when you work at a custom software development company, you can still be amazed and surprised when futuristic technology becomes a reality. Watching old episodes of Star Trek or even the Jetsons’ reveal technology that is not only currently being used, is probably a few years old. Some aspects of the future are behind us.
That is why we were so excited and floored when we read Seattle PI’s article about Microsoft’s 3D UI patent. Microsoft recently submitted and received a patent to develop a 3D interface that would give a completely different context to the ‘Virtual Office’ concept.
Diagram from the Microsoft Patent, Courtesy of Seattle PI
In essence, this 3D UI would emulate the environment of a real office, allowing users to interact with objects much like in real life. Some might argue about the necessity for an environment like this, given that we already have real offices but it sounds like this is just a prototype technology platform. There are so many possibilities for this platform, especially when combined with the Microsoft Kinect technology.
The thing that is less clear from the patent document is how a person actually interfaces with this world. We can imagine something that already exists (with cheesy glasses or head-gear) but I am sure that the some wizards in the hardware world will find an innovative way to interface with the 3D world.
It seems to us that this might be an excellent platform for security. How many spy movies have you seen where the thieves play to the folly of humans? Computers are more logical, capable of better black and white rules (until they start programming them with feelings, eep!). If someone needs to gain access to a secure ‘E-File” this might be a better environment because it lacks a physical form. If someone tries to steal it without proper access, the virtual security guard will kick the user out faster than you can say “the attractive lady trick.”
Over the next few years, we are excited to see how this changes the face of custom software development and user interface design. Seattle PI makes a great point that the technology Microsoft is trying to develop is much like a first person shooter game. In general, game developers and software developers run in separate circles because each requires different subsets of knowledge and development frameworks and tools. However, this seems like this 3D technology would bind them together in a real way.
It is strange to think about software development companies, who primarily work B2B, having to import graphic-engine developers and tools into the business solution software process. This is often a subject of discussion at our office. We find it fascinating when creative people and the technical teams merge because it often results in truly innovative methods, tools, processes or products.
Until the 3D technology is finalized and open for custom software development, Amadeus Consulting will continue to make the highest-quality solution oriented software in 2D. We’ll also watch Tron a few times to make sure we are ready.
