What is Dynamics 365 Remote Assist?
Dynamics 365 Remote Assist is an out-of-the-box communication platform that allows video and/or voice collaboration (like Skype) through Microsoft Teams. Participants can interact with digitally placed content in the world around them, share drawings and share documents. It can be used on a HoloLens 1 or 2, a mobile device (iOS/Android) and a computer. For the best experience, a HoloLens device is recommended.
How does it work?
Remote Assist uses Microsoft Teams for calls that require a Wi-Fi connection (HoloLens/computers) and/or cellular connection (mobile devices). It also requires a license for Teams.
Learn more about Microsoft Teams
So, you can call a mobile phone?
Yes, you can call a cell phone from the HoloLens. Your cell phone can also call the headset. This is all done through Microsoft Teams.
Why would I use this instead of a regular phone call or Team’s call?
Remote Assist calls offer enhanced, spatially-aware functionalities for problems that need more than just a talk-through.
Both users can interact with the video stream from the HoloLens in the following ways:
– Place arrows
– Draw/write
– Change pen/marker colors
– Take a picture (pictures are automatically sent through Teams to all participants)
– Connect to One Drive
– Voice commands (HoloLens only)
– Hands-Free (HoloLens only)
– Noise cancellation
What does “spatially-aware” actually mean?
A HoloLens user can see placed 3D drawings and 3D arrows in relation to the real world. For example: If I place an arrow on a specific part of a machine and then walk away from it or around it, it will still be in the same location in 3D space. If you draw over a curved surface, your line curves accurately over it in the headset.
How many people can you have on one call?
Once you’ve begun a call, you can continue adding users as needed. The largest we’ve had was 6 people including participants in other countries.
My workplace is loud, how is the noise cancellation?
In our testing, the noise cancellation is great. The person wearing the HoloLens can walk around a loud manufacturing floor, for example, and the individuals receiving the call hardly hear the machines at all.
What do I need to start with Remote Assist?
You need a HoloLens 2 headset, Microsoft Teams licensing (included in some enterprise Microsoft packages) and Dynamics 365 Remote Assist licensing (HoloLens is $60/month). For the HoloLens, you will need to ensure that you have a decent bandwidth as well since this call uses the Wi-Fi to stream high-quality video and audio.
If you are interested in learning more or would like to get started with Remote Assist contact us
