Microsoft to Upgrade Windows 10 with ‘Mixed Reality’

Category: Technology/Innovations

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. upcoming / ˈʌpˌkʌm ɪŋ / (adj) – happening soon
    Example:

    The smartphone company announced its upcoming models.


  2. highlight / ˈhaɪˌlaɪt / (n) – the most important part of a thing or an event
    Example:

    The unveiling of the latest medical technology was the highlight of the last conference.


  3. augmented / ɔgˈmɛnt əd / (adj) – referring to something that has been expanded
    Example:

    Programs create augmented reality by adding virtual images to the real world.


  4. overlay / ˌoʊ vərˈleɪ / (v) – to cover something over another object
    Example:

    Many phone users overlay their screens with a protective cover.


  5. allocate / ˈæl əˌkeɪt / (v) – to save something for a particular use
    Example:

    They allocated the majority of their resources to the improvement of their system.


Article

Read the text below.

Microsoft has revealed Windows 10’s newest features for its fourth update.


The details of the upcoming update for the tech giant’s latest operating system was released to the public last September 2017. According to Terry Myerson, Microsoft’s executive vice president, the highlight of the update is enabling Windows 10 devices to support what Microsoft calls Mixed Reality.


Mixed Reality combines both virtual and augmented reality. Through virtual reality, users can experience a fully artificial environment created through computer programs. On the other hand, augmented reality lets users hear sounds and see virtual images overlaid on their actual surroundings, such as in the game Pokémon Go.


The upgrade comes as Microsoft’s attempt to compete with other players in the virtual and augmented reality market.


Along with the announcement of the update, Microsoft also announced that its partner establishments are also planning to release hardware that would allow users to enjoy Windows 10’s new feature. Among these hardware creators are Dell, Asus, and Lenovo, which all plan to release headsets and motion controllers later this year.


In addition to Mixed Reality, the new update will also come with other significant upgrades. These include more storage capacity in OneDrive, Microsoft’s web-based file storage, and the addition of a game mode. The game mode allows users to allocate all their devices’ system resources to the game that they are playing for a smoother gaming experience.


Windows 10 will also have new built-in applications such as Paint 3D, Emoji keyboard, Windows Ink, and a comprehensive security system. The update is set to be released on October 17 and current Windows 10 users will get it for free.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

• Among the newest features of Windows 10 mentioned in the article, which one is the most useful for you? Why?
• Aside from video gaming, where else can a “mixed reality” feature be useful? Discuss.

Discussion B

• Is it important to check the features of an operating system (OS) when buying a device? Why or why not?
• Why is it important to constantly update your devices’ OS?