Sarah Travers
The future of communication is taking a leap forward with the emergence of holographic technology. US startup Proto is pioneering the way with its innovative “3D” holographic communication platform, designed to beam life-size video into various settings, from homes to universities, medical centers, and hotels. This revolutionary technology promises to reshape virtual interactions by creating a realistic sense of physical presence, elevating the video call experience to a whole new level.
Proto’s signature device is an imposing box that weighs over 400 pounds and stands taller than the average NBA player. With the clever use of visual effects, such as shadows and reflections, the box generates the illusion of depth, giving the appearance that the person in the video is actually present in the room. While the images aren’t true holograms, the effect convincingly mimics a three-dimensional experience. The technology supports any 4K camera, including those found on smartphones, to broadcast both live and recorded video.
This groundbreaking platform has already been tested in high-profile situations. For instance, Proto beamed actor William Shatner from Los Angeles to a convention in Orlando, Florida. Beyond entertainment, Proto’s devices have been deployed in multiple sectors, with universities, hotels, and medical centers adopting the technology for various uses. Corporate giants like Amazon, Verizon, and Walmart have also incorporated the system into their business communications, showing its versatility across industries.
Proto currently offers several models of its holographic box. The full-size models, the Proto Epic and Proto Luma, are priced between $29,000 and $65,000. For those seeking a smaller option, Proto has introduced the Proto M, a 30-inch tall, 30-pound tabletop version that sells for $5,900. The company also offers leasing options for businesses, with full-size models available at $2,500 per month.
One limitation of the technology is that Proto-to-Proto communication is not yet supported. To facilitate two-way conversations, users will need a separate camera, like a smartphone. However, only one Proto box is required for one-way communication, making it a flexible tool for presentations, events, or remote meetings.
Already, Proto’s technology has been integrated into diverse environments. For example, at New York’s JFK Airport and the Beverly Wilshire hotel in Beverly Hills, Proto offers concierge services through a life-size holographic presence, enhancing the customer experience. The West Cancer Center in Tennessee is utilizing the technology to beam doctors into remote locations, significantly improving patient care, especially for oncology and palliative care where personal interaction is crucial.
Educational institutions are also embracing Proto’s holographic technology. Leading universities, such as MIT, Stanford, and the University of Central Florida, have been using the platform to bring guest lecturers from across the globe into classrooms. At Loughborough University in the UK, students have responded positively to the technology, with many feeling a strong connection to holographic speakers, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Looking ahead, Proto envisions its technology becoming a part of everyday life. The company sees a future where smaller, more affordable models, possibly priced under $1,000, could be found in living rooms, transforming the way families communicate over long distances. By making interactions feel more authentic and immersive, Proto’s holographic boxes are set to redefine how people connect virtually.
As this technology continues to advance, Proto is positioning itself at the forefront of a new era in communication. Its holographic platform is paving the way for a future where lifelike, three-dimensional video calls are not just a novelty but a standard part of daily life. This innovation is not just a glimpse into the future—it’s bringing that future closer, one holographic call at a time.
