How To Get To Desktop On HoloLens

Introduction

Are you wondering how to get to the desktop on your HoloLens? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the various methods to navigate on HoloLens and show you step by step how to access the desktop.

HoloLens is an innovative augmented reality headset developed by Microsoft. It offers a unique and immersive computing experience by overlaying virtual elements onto the real world. While HoloLens primarily operates with holographic applications, there are times when you may need to access the traditional desktop interface for certain tasks or applications.

Whether you need to run a specific software, access files, or perform other desktop-related activities, figuring out how to get to the desktop on HoloLens can be beneficial. In the following sections, we will explain three different methods to navigate on HoloLens and then focus on the step-by-step process of accessing the desktop interface. So, let’s dive in!

How to Navigate on HoloLens

Before we delve into accessing the desktop on HoloLens, it’s important to familiarize ourselves with the various methods of navigation on the device. HoloLens utilizes a combination of gestures, voice commands, and buttons to interact with the holographic interface. Here are three primary methods you can use:

1. Method 1: Using the Air Tap Gesture

This is the most common and intuitive method of interaction on HoloLens. To select an item or perform an action, simply raise your hand in front of you and use your thumb and index finger to make an “air tap” gesture. This gesture is akin to clicking a mouse or tapping on a touchscreen.

2. Method 2: Using the Windows Button Gesture

Located on the right side of the device, near the temple, is the Windows button. Pressing this button will open the Start menu, allowing you to access various applications and features.

3. Method 3: Using the Cortana Voice Command

HoloLens comes with built-in voice recognition capabilities, powered by Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant. By saying “Hey Cortana” followed by your command, you can perform various actions without physically interacting with the device. For example, you can say “Hey Cortana, open Mail” to open the Mail app.

Now that you’re familiar with the ways to navigate on HoloLens, let’s move on to the next section where we’ll explore how to get to the desktop interface.

Method 1: Using the Air Tap Gesture

The air tap gesture is the primary method of interaction on HoloLens. It allows you to select objects, perform actions, and navigate through the holographic interface. Here’s how to use the air tap gesture:

1. Position yourself and your hand correctly: Ensure that you are facing the holographic objects or interface elements you want to interact with. Raise your hand in front of you, keeping your fingers slightly spread.
2. Perform the air tap gesture: Use your thumb and index finger to make a pinching motion like you are tapping on a touchscreen. This indicates the air tap gesture and simulates a mouse click.
3. Select objects: When you perform the air tap gesture on an object or holographic element, it will be selected. This can trigger an action or bring up additional options.
4. Perform actions: Once an object is selected, you can perform various actions depending on the context. This may include dragging and resizing objects, launching applications, or interacting with menus.
5. Navigate through the interface: You can use the air tap gesture to move through the holographic interface by selecting and interacting with navigation elements, such as buttons or links.

The air tap gesture is versatile and can be used for a wide range of interactions on HoloLens. It provides a natural and intuitive way to navigate the holographic space and interact with virtual objects. Remember to practice the air tap gesture to ensure accurate selection and smooth navigation.

Now that you understand the air tap gesture, let’s explore another method of navigation on HoloLens in the next section.

Method 2: Using the Windows Button Gesture

The Windows button on the HoloLens is a physical button located on the right side of the device near the temple. It serves as a quick and convenient way to access the Start menu and perform various actions. Here’s how to use the Windows button gesture:

1. Locate the Windows button: Locate the physical Windows button on the right side of the HoloLens device. It is positioned near the temple area for easy access.
2. Press the Windows button: Use your finger to press the Windows button. This will activate the Start menu and bring up the holographic interface.
3. Explore the Start menu: Once the Start menu is open, you can navigate through the available applications, holographic experiences, and other features. Use the head gaze to move the cursor and select items.
4. Select an application or feature: When you find the desired application or feature, use the air tap gesture we discussed earlier to select it. This will launch the selected item or perform the associated action.

The Windows button gesture provides a straightforward way to access the Start menu and quickly launch applications or features on HoloLens. It adds an element of familiarity for users who are accustomed to the traditional Windows interface. Additionally, the use of the Windows button gesture can be especially useful when you need to switch between different applications or access specific functionalities.

Now that you’re familiar with the Windows button gesture, let’s move on to the next section where we’ll explore another method of navigating on HoloLens.

Method 3: Using the Cortana Voice Command

HoloLens is equipped with Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant, which allows you to navigate and interact with the device using voice commands. By leveraging the power of Cortana, you can perform a wide range of tasks hands-free. Here’s how to use the Cortana voice command:

1. Activate Cortana: To start using Cortana, say “Hey Cortana” or press and hold the bloom gesture on the sides of the HoloLens device.
2. Issue a voice command: Once Cortana is activated, speak your command clearly and naturally. For example, you can say “Open Mail” to launch the Mail application or say “Take a picture” to capture an image.
3. Wait for Cortana’s response: After issuing a command, Cortana will process your request and execute the corresponding action. You may receive a verbal response or see the desired application or functionality appear in the holographic interface.

The Cortana voice command provides a convenient and hands-free method of navigation on HoloLens. It allows for quick access to applications and features without the need to physically interact with the device. With Cortana, you can perform various tasks, such as opening applications, searching the web, setting reminders, and more, using just your voice.

However, it’s important to note that voice commands may not always be suitable in every environment or situation. In noisy environments or when privacy is a concern, you may prefer to use other navigation methods like the air tap gesture or the Windows button gesture.

Now that you’re familiar with the Cortana voice command, we can move on to the next section where we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of accessing the desktop on HoloLens.

How to Get to the Desktop on HoloLens

Accessing the desktop interface on HoloLens allows you to perform tasks that require a more traditional computing environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to the desktop on HoloLens:

1. Step 1: Activate the Start Menu: Use the air tap gesture, the Windows button gesture, or the Cortana voice command to open the Start menu. This will display the list of available applications and features.
2. Step 2: Open the Windows Store App: In the Start menu, locate and open the Windows Store app. This is where you can download and install additional applications for your HoloLens.
3. Step 3: Download and Install the Desktop App: Once inside the Windows Store app, search for the desktop application you want to install. Click on the app and select the option to download and install it on your HoloLens.
4. Step 4: Pin the Desktop App to the Start Menu: After the desktop app is installed, navigate back to the Start menu and locate the app. Use the air tap gesture to select the app, and then choose the option to pin it to the Start menu for easy access.
5. Step 5: Access the Desktop App from the Start Menu: With the desktop app pinned to the Start menu, you can now access it whenever needed. Open the Start menu and locate the app, then use the air tap gesture or the Windows button gesture to launch it and enter the desktop interface.

By following these steps, you can easily access the desktop interface on your HoloLens device. Once in the desktop environment, you can work with familiar applications, access files, and perform tasks that require a more traditional computing setup.

It’s worth noting that the desktop experience on HoloLens may have certain limitations compared to a traditional desktop computer. However, it still provides a valuable bridge between the holographic world and the conventional computing environment.

Now that you know how to get to the desktop on HoloLens, let’s wrap up this article with a brief overview of what we’ve covered.

Step 1: Activate the Start Menu

To access the desktop on HoloLens, you’ll need to activate the Start menu. The Start menu is the gateway to various applications and features on the device. Follow these steps to activate the Start menu:

1. Use the air tap gesture: Raise your hand in front of you and perform the air tap gesture by pinching your thumb and index finger together. This will act as a click and help activate the holographic interface.
2. Utilize the Windows button gesture: An alternative method to activate the Start menu is by using the Windows button gesture. Locate the physical Windows button on the right side of the device, near the temple area. Press this button to bring up the Start menu.
3. Employ the Cortana voice command: Activate Cortana by saying “Hey Cortana” or by pressing and holding the bloom gesture on the sides of the HoloLens device. Then, issue a voice command such as “Open Start menu” to access it.

Once the Start menu is activated, you will be greeted with a holographic interface displaying a variety of applications and features. You can navigate through the Start menu by using the air tap gesture to select and launch applications, or by using your gaze to move the cursor and explore different options.

Remember that you can always return to the Start menu by performing the air tap gesture, using the Windows button gesture, or issuing a voice command to Cortana.

Activating the Start menu is the first step towards accessing the desktop on HoloLens. In the next step, we will explore how to open the Windows Store app to download and install the desktop application.

Step 2: Open the Windows Store App

After activating the Start menu on your HoloLens device, the next step in accessing the desktop is to open the Windows Store app. The Windows Store is where you can download and install additional applications, including the desktop app you need. Follow these steps to open the Windows Store app:

1. Navigate to the Start menu: Use the air tap gesture, Windows button gesture, or Cortana voice command to open the Start menu.
2. Locate the Windows Store app: Once the Start menu is displayed, look for the Windows Store app tile. It is represented by a shopping bag icon with the Windows logo. Use the air tap gesture to select the app tile.
3. Open the Windows Store app: After selecting the Windows Store app tile, the app will open, revealing a wide range of applications available for download.

With the Windows Store app open, you have access to a vast collection of applications specifically designed for HoloLens. This includes both holographic apps and traditional desktop apps.

Keep in mind that the Windows Store app on HoloLens may have a slightly different interface compared to the version found on other Windows devices. However, the functionality remains the same, allowing you to search for and install applications on your HoloLens device.

Now that you have successfully opened the Windows Store app, the next step is to download and install the desktop app that will allow you to access the desktop interface on HoloLens. We will cover this in detail in the following step.

Step 3: Download and Install the Desktop App

After opening the Windows Store app on your HoloLens device, you can proceed to download and install the desktop app that will grant you access to the desktop interface. Following these steps will guide you through the process:

1. Search for the desktop app: Utilize the search functionality within the Windows Store app to find the specific desktop app you need to download. You can either type in the app name or browse through the available categories to locate it.
2. Select the app: Once you have found the desired desktop app, click on it to view more details about the app, such as its description, screenshots, and user reviews. Make sure to read through this information to ensure the app meets your requirements.
3. Download and install the app: To proceed with the installation, click on the “Download” or “Get” button within the app’s listing. This will initiate the downloading and installation process. Wait for the app to download and install on your HoloLens device.

It’s important to note that the time taken for the download and installation process will vary depending on the size of the app and the speed of your internet connection. During this time, it’s advisable to have your HoloLens connected to a stable Wi-Fi network to ensure smooth and uninterrupted downloading.

Once the desktop app has finished downloading and installing, it will appear in the Apps section of the Start menu on your HoloLens device. From there, you can easily access and launch the app whenever you want to enter the desktop interface.

Now that you have successfully downloaded and installed the desktop app, we can move on to the next step, which involves pinning the app to the Start menu for easy access.

Step 4: Pin the Desktop App to the Start Menu

Now that you have downloaded and installed the desktop app on your HoloLens device, the next step is to pin it to the Start menu for easy access. Pinning the app will ensure that it remains visible and easily accessible whenever you navigate to the Start menu. Follow these steps to pin the desktop app:

1. Navigate to the Start menu: Use the air tap gesture, Windows button gesture, or Cortana voice command to open the Start menu on your HoloLens device.
2. Locate the desktop app in the Apps section: Once the Start menu is displayed, navigate to the Apps section. This section contains all the installed applications on your HoloLens device. Look for the desktop app that you downloaded and installed in the previous step.
3. Pin the desktop app: Use the air tap gesture to select the desktop app from the Apps section. Once selected, look for an option to “Pin to Start” or any similar command. Click on this option to pin the app to the Start menu.

After pinning the desktop app to the Start menu, you will find it listed among the other applications and features. This allows for quick and convenient access to the desktop interface whenever you need it.

It’s worth mentioning that you can rearrange the position of the pinned app on the Start menu by clicking and dragging it to your desired location. This customization feature enables you to prioritize the desktop app based on your preferences and usage patterns.

Now that you have successfully pinned the desktop app to the Start menu, we can move on to the final step – accessing the desktop app from the Start menu.

Step 5: Access the Desktop App from the Start Menu

With the desktop app successfully pinned to the Start menu, you are now ready to access the desktop interface on your HoloLens device. Follow these steps to access the desktop app from the Start menu:

1. Navigate to the Start menu: Use the air tap gesture, Windows button gesture, or Cortana voice command to open the Start menu on your HoloLens device.
2. Locate the desktop app: Once the Start menu is displayed, locate the desktop app that you previously pinned. Look for its icon or name among the list of applications and features.
3. Select the desktop app: Once you have located the desktop app, use the air tap gesture to select it. This will launch the app and transition you to the desktop interface.

After selecting the desktop app, you will be taken to the familiar desktop interface where you can access files, run applications, and perform tasks just like you would on a traditional desktop computer. You can use gestures like the air tap gesture to interact with windows, icons, and menus on the desktop.

When you are finished using the desktop app, you can navigate back to the Start menu by performing the air tap gesture, using the Windows button gesture, or issuing a voice command to Cortana. This allows you to switch between the holographic interface and the desktop interface seamlessly.

Now that you know how to access the desktop app from the Start menu, you’re all set to enjoy the benefits of a traditional desktop environment on your HoloLens device.

Conclusion

Accessing the desktop on your HoloLens device can provide you with a bridge between the holographic world and the familiarity of a traditional computing environment. In this article, we explored various methods of navigation on HoloLens, including the air tap gesture, the Windows button gesture, and the Cortana voice command. These methods allow you to interact with the holographic interface and access the Start menu, which is the gateway to the desktop on HoloLens.

We then delved into a step-by-step process on how to get to the desktop on HoloLens. From activating the Start menu to opening the Windows Store app, downloading and installing the desktop app, pinning it to the Start menu, and finally, accessing the desktop app from the Start menu, we covered the necessary steps to seamlessly transition to the desktop interface.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate to the desktop on your HoloLens device and utilize the full capabilities of a traditional computing environment. Whether you need to run specific software, access files, or perform other desktop-related activities, accessing the desktop on HoloLens opens up new possibilities for productivity and flexibility.

Remember to explore the various navigation methods and experimentation is key to becoming comfortable with using HoloLens. Additionally, keep in mind that the desktop experience on HoloLens may have certain limitations compared to a traditional desktop computer. Nonetheless, it provides a valuable complement to the holographic world, allowing you to seamlessly switch between both interfaces.

So go ahead and explore the desktop on your HoloLens device, and make the most of its capabilities and versatility.