 |
| Microsoft cancels plans for HoloLens 3 |
The future of Microsoft's HoloLens looks uncertain as the company strives to develop a coherent mixed reality strategy.
The tech industry sees a huge opportunity in headphones that immerse users in augmented virtual and digital worlds. But the HoloLens business doesn't seem like an early bet.
According to a new report from Business Insider, the tech giant has canceled potential plans for HoloLens 3 in recent months.
The source believes that this is the end of the headdress. In addition, Microsoft and Samsung signed an agreement to collaborate on new mixed reality devices, causing a split within the mixed reality division, according to sources.
A Microsoft spokesperson disputed the end of the HoloLens, saying it's an important part of the company's plans for emerging classes like mixed reality and metaverses.
"We remain committed to HoloLens and the future of HoloLens," added the spokesperson, who declined to discuss its partnership with Samsung.
Mixed reality workers interviewed by Business Insider said that different factions of the team are discussing which area to focus on.
Some believe teams should focus on their own equipment. Others have argued that it would be better to develop a software platform for Metaverse that other companies can use, such as the Windows operating system.
There is also debate over whether Microsoft should continue to focus on developing products for enterprise customers or whether the tech giant should also develop products for consumers.
Microsoft's mixed reality team is divided over strategy
Some also argue that the company's mixed reality team should comply with military contracts. Former Apple CEO Ruben Caballero has been appointed head of hardware engineering for HoloLens and other projects in 2020 as he plans to focus on consumers and the virtual world.
There seems to be such confusion as to what the team's goal should be. This is confirmed by the company losing 25 employees to Meta's mixed reality in 2021. This includes seniors who have worked with the company for more than 20 years.
However, Microsoft has big plans for the Metaverse. When she announced her acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, she said the acquisition paved the way for Metaverse.
“Gaming is the fastest growing and most exciting entertainment category across all platforms today,” said CEO Satya Nadella. It plays an important role in the development of the Metaverse platform.