Microsoft has officially ended the production of the HoloLens 2, signaling a decisive break from its foray into augmented reality and potentially the metaverse itself. A Microsoft representative informed UploadVR that while the HoloLens 2 will receive security updates until late 2027, all support will terminate in 2028.
This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy, as the company discontinues support for Windows Mixed Reality devices in the Windows 11 2024 Update that recently began rolling out. Users with Windows Mixed Reality headsets are warned to avoid updating to the 2024 feature release if they wish to continue using their devices with Valve’s Steam service.
Upon its launch, the HoloLens 2 seemed poised to revolutionize the enterprise sector that Microsoft aimed to penetrate. Unfortunately, enterprises did not widely embrace the technology, and attempts to capitalize on the metaverse failed to yield substantial returns. The departure of Alex Kipman, Microsoft’s VR chief, coupled with layoffs within the HoloLens team, indicates further struggles for the platform.
In a parallel effort, the U.S. Army continues to test the HoloLens IVAS as a tool for soldiers, though it has faced challenges in initial evaluations. The once-inspiring demonstrations of HoloLens at Microsoft’s Redmond headquarters, especially a memorable Minecraft showcase that offered a divine perspective on gameplay, now feel like relics of a bygone era. As the HoloLens fades into the background, it stands as a poignant reminder of Microsoft’s ambitious yet unfulfilled vision for augmented reality technology.