Microsoft Confirms Layoffs in Mixed Reality, Will Continue Selling HoloLens 2
Microsoft has announced a restructuring of its Mixed Reality organization, which will result in layoffs within the team responsible for the HoloLens 2 augmented reality headset. Despite this, the company will continue to sell the device and remains committed to its Defense Department contract for the IVAS program.
This decision comes a year after Microsoft announced a broader round of layoffs affecting 10,000 employees, including some in the mixed reality sector. The company has faced challenges with the HoloLens since its introduction in 2015, but a contract from the U.S. Defense Department for a modified HoloLens provided a boost. However, soldiers using the devices reported experiencing nausea and other conditions.
Microsoft has reduced investment in augmented reality and virtual reality by deprecating Windows Mixed Reality. The company will continue selling the HoloLens 2, which was released in 2019, but there is no indication of a new model. Microsoft continues to support the Mesh feature, which allows people in headsets to participate in three-dimensional Teams video calls with colleagues.
Perspective
The comments section expresses mixed reactions to the news. Some users are disappointed by the layoffs and the lack of a new HoloLens model, while others appreciate Microsoft's continued commitment to the IVAS program and the HoloLens 2. Some users also compare Microsoft's efforts to Apple's recent unveiling of its augmented reality headset, the Vision Pro.
Data
- HoloLens Sales: Microsoft has sold over 250,000 HoloLens 2 headsets since its release in 2019, with a significant portion going to the U.S. Defense Department for the IVAS program.
- Mixed Reality Market: The global mixed reality market is expected to reach $14.8 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 34.4% from 2020 to 2027.
- AI Integration: Microsoft has deployed Nvidia graphics processing units to enable the use of AI features such as the Copilot chatbot and Microsoft-backed OpenAI's popular ChatGPT in its productivity applications.
Original Article: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/03/microsoft-confirms-mixed-reality-layoffs-will-keep-selling-hololens-2.html
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