Microsoft Plans the Final Phases for HoloLens 2 and First Generation Updates

Microsoft Plans the Final Phases for HoloLens 2 and First Generation Updates

Final Sales for HoloLens 2 Initiated

Microsoft has commenced the concluding phase for HoloLens 2 availability. Partners in the mixed reality space are being offered a ‘last time to buy’ period, wherein the last of the HoloLens 2 units will be sold strictly via Microsoft or certified resellers. Despite ceasing further sales, the company reassures continuity in customer support and warranty services until the end of 2027.

First-Generation HoloLens Receives Final Update

The original HoloLens devices will receive a terminal update by December 10th, 2024. Post-update, these devices will see the end of official software and security updates, though they will continue to be operational. Microsoft advises an upgrade to the more advanced HoloLens 2 for a revamp in user experience.

  • HoloLens 2 will remain operable with crucial updates till December 31, 2027.
  • Microsoft advises migration to newer hardware post the latter date.

Microsoft’s Future in Wearable Technology

This move brings both the end of an era and perhaps the dawn of another. With HoloLens 2 drawing a curtain call, Microsoft’s Mixed Reality journey seems at a crossroad. Are we on the brink of witnessing a novel innovative MR headset from Microsoft? Recent developments could be indicative of that.

New Mixed Reality Ventures?

The US Army recently indicated a shift in partnership away from Microsoft for their Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS). This pivot sheds light on how the military seeks options beyond HoloLens tech. A reported Microsoft IVAS contract, valued previously at $22 billion, is now questioned, despite Microsoft’s determination to compete for the renewal.

Notably, amidst scaling down their XR hardware efforts, Microsoft has reinforced it is committed to evolving its product offerings in line with strategic gun-for-hire initiatives, particularly in AI. The potential merger between immersive and intelligent technologies holds promise for Microsoft’s trajectory, as signified by pending patents discussing spatial computing capabilities.

Patent Clues: Microsoft’s AR Ambitions

Intriguing patents hint at Microsoft’s significant interest in developing next-gen AR smart glasses, possibly infused with AI like CoPilot integration. While patents offer no guarantees, they underscore the company’s exploratory pathways in augmented reality akin to Apple’s Vision Pro.

With emphasis on spatial computing and enhanced device performance, Microsoft’s forward-looking tech exploration continues, potentially opening avenues for groundbreaking technologies in 2023 and beyond.

Source: https://www.xrtoday.com/mixed-reality/microsoft-announces-last-time-to-buy-for-hololens-2-and-final-hololens-gen-1-update/

This article is experimental and made by Knoxlabs AI.

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