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Microsoft is apparently gearing up to launch HoloLens v3 in 2019 – sidestepping the second iteration of the mixed reality headset in the proccess. This comes from sources who spoke to Thurrott‘s Brad Sams.
Sams says that the company’s decision may come from the fact that nobody else in mixed reality is moving anywhere nearly as quick. The initial HoloLens is availalbe to buy, though it is so expensive that it is really only available to keen enthusasts and developers. In spite of this, there is no real competition in the space, with rival mixed reality firm Magic Leap not having a consumer-ready product to show off.
Fundamentally, with no real competition Microsoft apparently feels no pressure to build something that is an incrimental update on its existing product. Sams does not however reveal any plans that the company has for HoloLens v3, but you’d assume that improved responsiveness and fidelity would be big factors.
When asked for a statement by the site, Microsoft was coy and said: “Mixed reality is the future of computing, and Microsoft HoloLens is the future and present of mixed reality. Our commitment requires no roadmap.”
Should this be the strategy that Microsoft follows, it would give developers and content creators more time to get comfortable with building apps and experiences for mixed reality. Equally, it would give more of a chance for the technology to get cheaper so it can become a viable option for more consumers rather than the plaything of a few wealthy enthusiasts.
The company will hope that by adjusting its long term path it can remain as a segment leader
You can read about mixed reality, virtual reality and augmented reality in the March issue of PCR, out next week.
