What is the Microsoft Garage?

Have you ever wondered where some of the ideas for Microsoft programs came from? You know, the cutting-edge apps. There is a good chance they started in the Microsoft Garage.

Microsoft Garage is a platform for Microsoft employees to explore new technologies and move their ideas forward. Some of the projects succeed, and some fail. But one thing is for sure: they are some of the coolest apps around.

The first thing you should know is that all of the projects are experiments run by one or more Microsoft employees in their spare time. Some are open to the general public, and some are by invitation only.

You have to remember that these experiments are strictly just beta tests. Once an experiment is complete, you can no longer download it. However, it is an excellent opportunity to give a developer or team of developers a helping hand with valuable feedback.

Now, the experiments in the Microsoft Garage are for more than just Windows. There are projects for all platforms: iOS, Android, Xbox, and Windows..

What is cool is that Microsoft has even built several facilities at some of its development centers around the world just for the Garage developer teams. Microsoft even holds special events to help these developers explore new technologies.

Some ongoing experiments in the Microsoft Garage include Mouse Without Borders, a Windows program that allows you to control up to four (4) computers from one keyboard and mouse.

There is Face Swap for Android and iOS devices that, as the name implies, allows you to take a photo of your face and apply it to another image.

Sketch 360 allows you to create 360-degree sketches using an innovative grid design. You draw on the left side of the screen, and the sketch is displayed in a 360-degree view on the right side of the screen.

Also noteworthy is the What Dog experiment, which, as the name implies, tells you what breed a dog is. Just take a picture of a dog, and What Dog will identify the breed.

So, if you would like to help in the development of some cool apps, take a look inside the Microsoft Garage. You might be surprised by what you find.

Microsoft Garage