Windows 10: Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2

Brink · Feb 18, 2017

It was a little over two years ago that Microsoft first showed the world HoloLens and the company immediately grabbed headlines around the globe about their new vision for the future of computing. Since that announcement, Microsoft has moved the prototype device into production and it can be purchased today, although it is expensive.

Last week, I started receiving tips from several sources that said Microsoft was shuffling its roadmap for Hololens which resulted in the second iteration of the device being canceled. Considering how much Microsoft has championed the device and many believe that this is the future of computing, this didn’t sound quite right.

In an effort to help paint the correct picture of what is happening with Hololens, I spoke to several sources who have direct knowledge of the company’s plans but requested anonymity for this post. With their help, I am able to provide clarity into their development process and why the second iteration of the device has been sidelined.

Back when the first version of Hololens came out, Microsoft created a roadmap that highlighted several release points for the product. This isn’t unusual, you start with the first device, second generation devices are typically smaller and more affordable and then with version three you introduce new technology that upgrades the experience; this is a standard process path in the technology sector. Microsoft, based on my sources, is sidelining what was going to be version two of HoloLens and is going straight to version three.

Why are they doing this? In the two years since the device was first announced, companies like Magic Leap have made big promises about their technology and how it will transform the world. Today, you cannot buy a device made by Magic Leap nor have we even seen a retail device from any other company in this space. In short, Microsoft has a large lead in the AR space and isn’t feeling pressure to release a product that is only an incremental update.

By skipping what was version two on their roadmap, the company can accelerate version three which will be closer to a generational leap and help keep Microsoft ahead of the competition. My sources are telling me that this version of Hololens will not arrive until 2019.

Yes, 2019 is a considerable amount of time away but for Microsoft, if they would have built what was known as version two, the company would not be able to get version three delivered by 2019. In short, the company is making a bet that the advancements they are investing in today for the v3 version of Hololens are significant enough and add enough value to the product that it will make sure they continue to lead the segment by getting that device to the market earlier...
Click to expand...

Read more: Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2 - Thurrott.com

FuturDreamz · Feb 19, 2017

My first guess was they were hoping to skip the bad in the windows good-bad-good-bad cycle...

:)

mgoksoy · Feb 19, 2017

S60 v3 applications on S60 v3 handsets

Why don't all applications developed for the S60 v3 platform work on all S60 v3 handsets?

I understand the hardware related differences like accelerator and touch screen, but what differences are there otherwise?

Ronnie Vernon · Feb 19, 2017

Can the hololense work in the real world?

Hello my name is Scott and I would like to be a tester for the hololens to see if it works in the real as in the outside world. To find out what they can and can't do.
Click to expand...

Hi Scott

The Hololens is not available to the general public yet.

The Hololens program that Microsoft is offering is for the developers who will be developing apps for the Hololens.

Go to the following website. Click the links on the Blue Menu Bar. Enjoy.

Hololens Main:

Microsoft HoloLens

Regards

Windows 10: Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2

Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2

Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2

Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2

Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens V3 Development, Sidesteps V2 - Similar Threads - Microsoft Accelerates HoloLens

Unable to turn on developer mode on Hololens 2

Unable to turn on developer mode on Hololens 2

Unable to turn on developer mode on Hololens 2

Should I get a Razer Core V2 or Omen Accelerator

This is Microsoft HoloLens

HoloLens Development Edition Updates

Introducing 1st ever experiences for Microsoft HoloLens Development

HoloLens experience showcase opens for developers at Microsoft Store

HoloLens Development Edition Updates