The HoloLens 2 has been unveiled for the first time by Microsoft at MWC 2019, the new redesigned augmented reality headset. Microsoft claims that the HoloLens 2 is 3 times more conformable, twice more immersive and at a better price than the previous version of the HoloLens. Microsoft also states that the new HoloLens is lighter which makes it easier for the user to wear, and also it offers a better interaction with the augmented reality holograms.
The device offers major enhancements to the first-generation HoloLens headset such as intuitive controls and enhanced comfort. Microsoft has also reduced its price down to $3.500, but at this price it is still destined exclusively for the business segment.
HoloLens 2 from Microsoft is a completely redesigned headset with a completely new exterior design, high-quality construction material and newly designed internal components. Microsoft said it has built the new headset with three things in mind: more immersion, more comfort and more package value.
To improve immersion, the HoloLens 2 displays offer double visual field (FOV) compared to the original model, maintaining the same level of visual clarity as the original device. Microsoft’s main reference point for image clarity was 47 pixels per visible area, and the company reached the same reference point in the new headset, installing two MEMK 2K displays – one for each eye. It’s like moving from 720 pixels to television 2k.
Microsoft has also returned to the design phase and imagined how to interact with the augmented reality world. The original HoloLens were based on gesture controls, which were not as intuitive as you could imagine. The new method of interaction is more like interacting with the real world, which means you can reach and touch holographic objects as if they were real.
Do you want to move a window? Take it and pull it aside. Is it the small object? Take the corners and stretch it. Is there a button pressed? Reach it and touch it. The new HoloLens also includes a new feature called Follow, which allows applications to record and track your movements so you can have the most used applications at your fingertips.
As the presentation showed us, the new headset proves to be far beyond the old headphones. Microsoft has said that HoloLens 2 is capable of these advanced interactions because it includes a new Kinect sensor that is capable of fine-grain spatial tracking of the entire environment, the objects inside it and yours, to the individual fingers of the user.
On the comfort side, Microsoft redesigned the exterior of the headset. The new device is more compact than the first-generation HoloLens and is made of lightweight materials. The entire front viewfinder of the headset is made of carbon fiber to reduce weight and help weight distribution. Carbon fiber is also an incredibly tough material that should protect it from damage in the industrial environment.
The original headset had a dual-band system that allowed you to adjust the headset to allow it to be aligned with the eyes, which worked pretty well, but it was a heavy system that did not fit those wearing glasses. The new headset has a more balanced ribbon with a rear adjustment dial like many VR Mixed Reality headphones. Microsoft also provided HoloLens 2 with an easy-to-view viewfinder to take the lens out of sight without removing the headset from the head. Not that removing the headset would be difficult. Microsoft said it’s as easy to put as an ordinary hat.
The original HoloLens was an expensive device that did not include any software packages. Microsoft said that on average it would take companies that invested in a HoloLens three months before they could use it significantly. To solve this problem, Microsoft has worked with partners to ensure that HoloLens 2 will have a robust launch software ecosystem.
Microsoft said Microsoft Dynamics 365 will be updated for HoloLens 2 with Remote Assist and Layout from launch. The company also plans to launch a new application called Guides, which would allow experienced workers to create training guides for recruits.
HoloLens 2 will also integrate with a new cloud service called HoloLens Azure, which will allow mixed reality experiences in a variety of devices. HoloLens Azure Spatial Anchors allow AR Kit, AR Core and HoloLens to see the same virtual real-time objects in order to facilitate teamwork. HoloLens Azure cloud services also include Remote Rendering, which allows you to transmit content of high-quality polygons with infinite detail to HoloLens devices.
Microsoft has also revealed the HoloLens customization program that allows partner companies to modify the HoloLens headset to meet industry-specific specifications. Trimble is the first company to take advantage of the customization program and announced the Trimble XR10, which is one
