Microsoft expands Microsoft Mesh to all MS Teams users enabling meetings using 3D avatars in VR workplaces

Microsoft has expanded the availability of its Microsoft Mesh virtual avatar and 3D work space application by making it available to all Microsoft Teams online video call and group meeting software users. This immersive workplace solution allows remote workers worldwide to meet and interact within customizable 3D VR environments while wearing Meta Quest VR headsets (like this at Amazon) while those without can still meet in 2D.

The coronavirus pandemic resulted in many shifting to remote work, and even after the lockdowns were lifted, some still prefer the work-from-home environment. However, the lack of face-to-face interaction has resulted in poorer communications and bonding among co-workers. Studies of liars and others in the field of human communications have long shown that millisecond changes in facial and body expressions convey valuable, nuanced information during conversations.

Current VR technology cannot fully replicate the nuances in human movement and Microsoft Mesh only shows the upper-body of 3D avatars, so Mesh presents a much scaled down Second Life experience for work. Nevertheless, Microsoft hopes that Mesh enables better team engagement and collaboration among remote workers.

Corporations wishing to develop custom VR workplaces can do so primarily using Unity alongside Maya and other popular 3D modeling software. Object interactions can be scripted using C#, .NET, and local Mesh Physics simulation to create more complex, dynamic environments. Cloud synchronization automatically handles multiple user audio streams and avatar movements in real-time while providing optional enterprise grade security.

Microsoft Mesh is now available to all Microsoft Teams users on an appropriate Microsoft 365 plan. A separate Microsoft Mesh application can also be used to participate in virtual work places.