Microsoft HoloLens 2 is a mixed reality headset that combines augmented reality and virtual reality to create a unique computing experience. Since its announcement in February 2019, it has since been used in a variety of industries such as healthcare, manufacturing and education. But how revolutionary is this technology and can we expect to see the development of HoloLens 3 anytime soon?
A key feature of the HoloLens 2 is its ability to provide a hands-free computing experience. Users are able to interact with the holographic images using gestures, voice commands and eyetracking. The device is also equipped with sensors that track users movemements in order to adjust holographic images accordingly. To excel its predecessor, the HoloLens 1, Microsoft wanted to create a product that was more comfortable, intuitive and immersive, and that is exactly what they did.
The HoloLens, despite its high price, has seen a strong market growth and revenue. In 2020, the global market for AR and VR headsets was valued at $10.7 billion, with a projected annual growth rate of 39.2% from 2021 to 2028. Alongside this, Microsoft reported that its Intelligent Cloud division, that of which includes HoloLens, saw revenue growth of 34% in the second quarter of 2021, reaching a staggering $17.7 billion.
Understandably because of its immense success, many have been left wondering whether we would be seeing the introduction of HoloLens 3. The development of the HoloLens was deemed to be ahead of its time but with the use of the metaverse growing in popularity, HoloLens needs to stay relevant and the future of it has remained uncertain in recent months. Especially considering the fact that HoloLens Lead, Alex Kipman, is no longer with Microsoft after he resigned.
Microsoft has since said that the next HoloLens needs a meaningful update, focusing on displays, tracking, sensors and battery life updates. Microsoft’s Vice President of Mixed Reality, Scott Evans said: “No one wants to be obsoleted for 10% better capabilities. They don’t need a successor yet, but they want to know it will be there at the right time”. This suggests that Microsoft’s judgment is that their customers are not yet yearning for new hardware so therefore do not feel it necessary to deliver the next HoloLens, what’s your judgement?
