Microsoft and Greece’s Ministry of Culture and Sport launched an immersive tour using AR technology on Wednesday.
Makers believe has the potential to alter education, business, and entertainment. However, critics fear that it will amplify the invasive influence of U.S. tech behemoths.
The ministry of culture assisted Microsoft in mapping and creating virtual representations of Olympia, a place that has hosted ancient Greek games for than a thousand years and served as the inspiration for the contemporary Olympics.
In a video statement at the launch event, Microsoft President Brad Smith remarked, “It’s a milestone… that let us bring technology, culture, and history together so we can preserve it.”
Users can tour the site remotely or in person
At Olympia, users can tour the site remotely or in person using an online presentation and an AR-like mobile app, walking through the ruins and seeing a virtual re-creation of temples and competition zones. Furthermore, they may utilize Microsoft’s mixed-reality HoloLens headsets at the Olympic Museum in Athens. Which overlay visual information on top of what the viewer sees.
“I’m incredibly thrilled that we’re able to bring to the world a whole new cultural experience utilizing technology to re-create the ancient world of Olympia,” Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said.
Moreover, “It’s a fantastic application. “I think it can help with teaching in schools.”
Microsoft started the project 18 months ago, scouring Olympia with drones
After striking an agreement with the Greek government to develop three data centers in greater Athens for an expenditure of up to $1 billion, Microsoft began the project 18 months ago, searching Olympia with drones and sensors.
Glasses that double as personal projectors to provide extra information like route options for bicyclists. Tech companies are racing to bring mixed reality platforms to consumers. Additionally gear that would blend the internet with everyday experience.
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