Microsoft acquires 3D specialist Simplygon in a move that is part of company's "3D for everyone" strategy.
Microsoft Acquires Simplygon
As Microsoft is making specific investments in 3D technology with the aim to provide even more benefit for creative types, it seems that 3D will take an even more significant role going forward.
According to CNET, Microsoft's is acquiring the Swedish 3D data-optimization vendor. The amount involved in the deal was not disclosed. The announcement was made on company's blog on Tuesday, Jan. 17, by Kudo Tsunoda, a Microsoft executive.
This is part of Microsoft's "3D for everyone" strategy that will be the focus in the upcoming Windows 10 Creators Update. According to Tsunoda, Simplygon, a company with reputable expertise in 3D, could help Microsoft simplify the process of capturing creating, and sharing 3D information. Microsoft's new online creator community, Remix3D.com, and the new Paint 3D application codenamed "Beihai" will be complemented by Simplygon technology.
Among the most important new features implemented into the Windows 10 Creators Update is a wide range of 3D capabilities that cater to creative types, according to Digital Trends. In the next version of Windows 10, in fact, 3D will take a central role, with the ability to scan objects and import them into the new Paint 3D app as 3D objects. It will also be possible to share these objects to the new Remix 3D community sharing site and interact with them using Windows Holographic and HoloLens.
Microsoft's Windows Holographic, HoloLens, and the high-end and very niche Surface Studio show how important is that Windows 10 becomes the best operating system for creative professionals. Microsoft only further demonstrates that it is seriously focusing on its "3D for Everyone" strategy, by purchasing Simplygon.
The major Windows 10 update dubbed the Creators Update has been scheduled by Microsoft for early 2017. The update is set to be rolled out with all-new functionality with a particular focus on 3D, aimed to allow users to freely exercise their creativity. According to vice president of Microsoft's Windows and devices group Terry Myerson, while we are used mostly with 2D apps, the next generation is accustomed right from the start with 3D.
Simplygon 3D Specialist
Simplygon is currently a player in the 3D augmented reality/virtual reality and game optimization niches. The company was developed by Donya Labs AB in Sweden. Simplygon is providing "automatic 3D data optimization solutions," as well as solutions in the fields of e-commerce and interactive visualizations.
Applying the company's expertise in the area of 3D-game optimization is Simplygon's biggest strength. Company's SDK has been adopted by most leading AAA game development studios. Company's technology aims to enable creators and users who are utilizing 3D data to optimize streamline workflows and content pipelines.
Throughout company's journey, it has been focused on supporting developers push the boundaries of 3D tech. From its early days, Simplygon was delivering advanced level-of-detail solutions. With its more recent expansion into enterprise AR/VR, automatic 3D data-optimization has become increasingly more accessible to developers.
According to company's website, Simplygon's next challenge is the ultimate accessibility, 3D For Everyone. In this context, the company is joining forces with high-tech giant Microsoft in order to make this happen.
