Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google


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

  • interconnected blue glass cubes

    Anthropic Expands Enterprise Deployment Options for Claude Desktop

    Anthropic is introducing new enterprise deployment options for Claude Desktop, saying organizations that use the app through Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Foundry can now access the full desktop experience across chat, Claude Cowork, and Claude Code.

  • child stands with a laptop, in front of various drawings related to math and science

    Why Screen Time Limits Are Not the Answer

    At a fundamental level, screen time policies and laws aim to address academic achievement by balancing digital instruction with traditional teaching methods. But they do not tackle how devices are used.

  • Man offers stem word sign on virtual screen

    Immersive Workforce Development Initiative Connects Students with Real-World STEM Careers

    The Center of Science and Industry, a science museum and research center in Central Ohio, has launched The HIVE, a workforce development initiative designed to help students across the country explore real-world career pathways in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, engineering, and emerging technologies.

  • group of smiling teachers

    NAAIC Expands AI Workforce Development Efforts to High Schools

    The National Applied AI Consortium, a National Science Foundation-funded initiative led by Miami Dade College, Houston City College, and Maricopa Community Colleges focused on artificial intelligence education and workforce development, is expanding its mission into high schools.