We may not get flying cars in the future but if a promotional video by Microsoft is any indication, our future is going to be sleek and dominated by holograms and touch-based appliances. The video paints a vivid future where productivity and ease-of-use go hand and hand. The question I pose, is it possible?

According to Kurt DelBene, President of Microsoft's Office Division, in a blog post, all the ideas used in the video are based on real technology, either through research and development at Microsoft or other companies. So in the future, collaboration on projects at work (no matter the distance) becomes easier through interconnected devices and interactive information.

This productivity isn’t limited to work though, as contextual information can be displayed and used to make decisions like what to cook for dinner faster and easier. Imagine your refrigerator giving you suggestions based on what’s available inside or simply noting the amount of eggs you have on hand. This is amazing stuff but at what cost?

We are years away from having businesses use the technology denoted in video and even more when that technology can be applied to consumer appliances in a cost effective way. I don’t doubt we’ll see holograms in use in our lifetime, but to the extent it is portrayed in the video I do. For now, enjoy this amazing video of the future through Microsoft’s eyes.