Microsoft HoloLens release and pricing set for Q1 2016

The first Development Edition of the Microsoft HoloLens headset is set to be released in the first quarter of 2016. This headset's "development edition" will be titled as such because it'll be made for people wishing to create apps and games for the headset before the headset's first full consumer release. This is a similar release setup to Samsung's GearVR and Oculus' Rift developer edition releases, coming first with early editions to get developers interested, following up then with a real headset for consumers later.

Microsoft's Terry Myerson made certain to clarify the release scheduling for this device, suggesting that "starting today, [Microsoft is] taking applications for a HoloLens development kit." This development kit will be available starting at some point within the first three months of 2016, and it'll cost you a cool $3,000 USD.

"I just can't wait to see what Windows developers are going to do with holographic computing," said Myerson. This was after a brief demo of a new game by the code-name of Project X-Ray. This project showed the power of the HoloLens headset by adding a controller that acted as a holographic gauntlet for the user's hand while monsters emerged from walls before our eyes.

Have a peek at the Microsoft HoloLens timeline below for additional details. We'll be seeing more of the headset in another hands-on experience later today – stay tuned!