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Start for freeIntroduction to the 3D Objects Folder in Windows 10
Do you recall the sudden appearance of the 3D Objects folder in Windows 10? This feature left many users baffled, wondering about its purpose. For the vast majority, this folder likely remained untouched, until Microsoft decided to remove it prior to the launch of Windows 11. This article delves into the origins, purpose, and the eventual discontinuation of the 3D Objects folder, shedding light on Microsoft's ambitious, yet short-lived, venture into mixed reality.
The Origins of the 3D Objects Folder
The 3D Objects folder made its debut in the Windows 10 Creator Update (1703) back in 2017. Located at C:/Users/[UserName]/3D Objects, this folder was designed with a unique icon, akin to other special folders in Windows. Interestingly, despite its removal in 2021, Windows 11 introduced a new icon for the 3D Objects folder, albeit hidden from the average user's view. For those interested, it's possible to reintroduce this folder into Windows 11's Home area of Windows Explorer through a specific registry key modification. However, users must manually create the folder in their directory for this change to take effect.
Microsoft's Bet on Mixed Reality
The inception of the 3D Objects folder was closely tied to Microsoft's heavy investment in Windows Mixed Reality during the same period. Microsoft envisioned a future dominated by mixed reality and virtual reality (VR) technologies. In collaboration with companies like Lenovo, Microsoft introduced a range of affordable mixed reality headsets, aimed at bringing VR experiences to the mass market. These headsets provided users with a unique virtual environment, though they failed to gain significant traction.
Microsoft's strategy was to prepare Windows 10 for a future where creating and interacting with 3D models would become as common as working with photos and videos. This vision, however, did not materialize as expected.
Tools for 3D Creativity
Despite the lukewarm reception to its mixed reality efforts, Microsoft released several applications to support 3D content creation, which remain available today. Paint 3D and 3D Viewer are two such apps that users can download from the Microsoft Store. Paint 3D serves as a simplistic, yet intuitive, 3D modeling tool, allowing users to create and manipulate basic shapes and textures. On the other hand, 3D Viewer offers a straightforward way to view and inspect 3D models, complete with features like adjustable lighting and detailed model statistics.
The Decline of the 3D Objects Folder
Ultimately, the 3D Objects folder and its associated ambitions failed to resonate with the general public. The anticipated revolution in personal 3D content creation and mixed reality experiences did not take off as Microsoft had hoped. This led to the folder's removal as the company shifted its focus away from these technologies.
Your Thoughts
The story of the 3D Objects folder is a fascinating glimpse into what could have been a significant shift in how we interact with our computers. Did you ever use the 3D Objects folder or the associated 3D creation tools? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
If you found this exploration into the 3D Objects folder intriguing, consider watching more discussion videos on similar topics. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to delve into the interesting, sometimes forgotten aspects of technology history.
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