Microsoft Transitioning Away from HoloLens Mixed Reality Hardware

Microsoft has confirmed that hardware development for its HoloLens mixed reality headset has officially come to an end.

The company ended production of its latest headset, HoloLens 2, in October 2024, and at the time did not disclose future plans for the HoloLens team. In 2023, some teams, including those working on HoloLens, were hit with layoffs, with the company only expressing vague plans to continue its mixed reality hardware push. Further, plans for a third iteration of its mixed reality headset were in the works, but were scrapped (paywalled).

Now, Microsoft has closed the door on the hardware with confirmation sent to The Verge from Microsoft Mixed Reality CVP Robin Seiler:

"We are transitioning away from hardware development but will continue to provide support for HoloLens2 hardware and software through 2027, as announced in October. We remain committed to the IVAS program and will shift our focus to cloud and AI technologies, which will serve as the foundation for IVAS as a situational awareness platform."

The company is also turning to a new partner, defense technology firm Anduril Industries, to continue its HoloLens contract with the Department of Defense. Anduril Industries will take the lead "to drive the next phase of the U.S. Army's Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) program," according to a joint press release.

Microsoft's Defense Department contract, which was estimated at $21.9 billion in 2021, focused on developing the IVAS technology that would be used for training and feature a unified heads-up display integrating high-resolution night, thermal, and soldier-borne sensors. The current system is designed to enhance situational awareness, target engagement, and decision-making in the field.

Moving forward, Anduril Industries will take over development of IVAS and handle future production of headsets used by the military. Microsoft will continue to support the program through the use of Microsoft Cloud and AI capabilities, the company said.

About the Author

Chris Paoli (@ChrisPaoli5) is the associate editor for Converge360.

Featured

  • three silhouetted education technology leaders with thought bubbles containing AI-related icons

    Ed Tech Leaders Rank Generative AI as Top Tech Priority

    In a recent CoSN survey, an overwhelming majority of ed tech leaders (94%) said they see AI as having a positive impact on education. Respondents ranked generative AI as their top tech priority, with 80% reporting their districts have gen AI initiatives underway, or plan to in the current school year.

  • computer monitor with a bold AI search bar on the screen

    Google Rolls Out AI Mode in Search

    About a year after introducing AI Overviews for its flagship search offering, Google has announced broad availability of AI Mode in Search.

  • glowing shield hovers above a digital cloud platform with abstract data streams and cloud icons in the background

    Google to Acquire Cloud Security Firm Wiz in $32 Billion Deal

    Google has announced it will acquire cloud security startup Wiz for $32 billion. If completed, the acquisition — an all-cash deal — would mark the largest in Google's history.

  • students using digital devices, surrounded by abstract AI motifs and soft geometric design

    Ed Tech Startup Kira Launches AI-Native Learning Platform

    A new K-12 learning platform aims to bring personalized education to every student. Kira, one of the latest ed tech ventures from Andrew Ng, former director of Stanford's AI Lab and co-founder of Coursera and DeepLearning.AI, "integrates artificial intelligence directly into every educational workflow — from lesson planning and instruction to grading, intervention, and reporting," according to a news announcement.