Microsoft to sell motion controllers for mixed reality

Microsoft has revealed own-branded motion controllers to pair with its Windows mixed reality platform.

The controllers can be used with Microsoft's own HoloLens mixed reality headset or any other headset running the Windows platform.

To accompany the new controllers, Microsoft announced that Acer and HP's own mixed reality headsets are now open for pre-headers for developers in the US and Canada.

Microsoft will attempt to bring down the prohibitive cost of mixed reality for customers and developers. While Microsoft's own HoloLens costs A$4369 for the development edition and $7269 for the commercial suite, Acer and HP's headsets are much cheaper, costing US$299 for Acer's and US$329 for HPs.

Microsoft said its device partners will sell the controllers on retailers by the holiday season.

"A customer who pairs a Windows Mixed Reality headset with motion controllers will have a rich and immersive experience across creativity tools, productivity, games, and entertainment," Microsoft said.

"The motion controllers offer precise and responsive tracking of movement in your field of view using the sensors in your headset. There is no need to install hardware on the walls around you."

The announcements were made at the Microsoft Build 2017 conference held in Seattle on 10-12 May.