You will be able to design a custom kitchen with HoloLens at select Lowe’s stores.
Today, Microsoft announced their plan to bring HoloLens augmented reality headsets to select Lowe’s locations. The partnership with Lowe’s is an effort to redefine how people think about home renovation and they will be starting with the kitchen.
Using the HoloLens, customers will be able to see different design options for kitchen countertops, appliances, cabinetry and be able select features like backsplashes. According to Microsoft, users will be able to experience a holographic representation of their newly designed kitchen and adjust finishes on fly.
This month, Lowe’s is piloting its HoloLens-powered kitchen remodel demonstration in-store, in the greater Seattle area. From there, Lowe’s will begin piloting in-store in Raleigh, North Carolina, not far from its headquarters.
Starting with the kitchen is just the beginning for what is possible when rethinking home renovation using augmented reality or mixed reality. “Whereas kitchens and showrooms are just the beginning, we imagine that a solution like this would be an ideal way to view renovation options in individual homes,” HoloLens general manager Scott Erickson shared today.
This is when augmented reality starts to make more sense. Using the HoloLens as a tool for consumers in a retail space, especially when they have to interact with a staff member, is something that many shoppers can get excited about.
The $3,000 developer edition of HoloLens begins shipping on March 30th and happens to coincide with the first day of Microsoft’s Build Developer Conference taking place at the Moscone Center in San Francisco where I am sure HoloLens will be a hot topic.
