On April 25, 2018, Queen’s University unveiled a holographic video conference system where people in different locations can appear in life size 3D forms. The Holographic program makes use of artificial intelligent projectors mounted above and around a human sized pod designed for retro-reflection. As many might wonder, this does not need 3D glasses nor headset because the hologram projects a light field.
In regular video conference platforms such as Skype and Google Hangouts, users cannot make eye contact nor convey non-verbal language; calls are two dimensional. The new hologram video system, a 3D alternative, displays a human projection. The video system has a 360 degree view which can be seen simultaneously by multiple users on the call.
The system seems to be the best solution to communication in the business world. It allows for more seamless communication between a business and its consumers. This new technology is also a solution to travel costs that can be a huge part of organizational spending.
Although the idea of a holographic video conference call is a real solution to business communication challenges, it is currently only an expensive possibility for most businesses, especially small to mid-size companies. The implementation of this system in businesses requires an extensive technology network including digital technology suites. Holographic video conferencing currently only works between fixed locations for businesses and requires that a lot of digital power on both ends of the call. That is, if your business requires face time with customers in different venues, you would effectively have to purchase two holographic video devices; one for the call destination and one for the caller.
The holographic video conferencing technology is expensive. A small 3D holographic device could cost as much as $2,000 and a person-to-person device could cost at least $60,000. Unless you have a significant technology budget, this holographic video technology is out of reach for now, but in time it will should become more affordable and more mainstream as the technology evolves.
