Microsoft announced to its enterprise partners last week that it would discontinue its newest AR headset, HoloLens 2, and remove support updates by the end of 2027, leading many to question whether the Redmond tech giant had scrapped the platform altogether.
One such corporate partner was Jens Lauritsen, Chief Product Officer of Copenhagen-based XR startup Virsabi, who released the email from Microsoft detailing its plans.
In this document (seen below), Microsoft announced a “Last Time Purchase” option for HoloLens 2, stating that remaining stocks are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Additionally, Microsoft stated that HoloLens 2 will continue to receive security updates until December 31, 2027, and also that the original 2016-era HoloLens will receive its last service update on December 10, 2024.
Released in 2019, that 2027 end date isn't too bad a lifespan for the HoloLens 2, or any mobile device for that matter. But if any The company's announcement that it is putting a product out to pasture without a clear follow-up statement should rightfully raise some eyebrows.
While entirely speculative, some of this may have to do with the company shifting resources to turn HoloLens 2 into a military platform for its contract with the US Army worth up to $22 billion, creating what's also known as an Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS). ).
Adapting HoloLens 2 to the Army's own IVAS has proven to be a major challenge and may even be replaceable. recently Breaking the Defense The report suggests that the US Army is preparing for a new open competition called “IVAS Next”, which could mean it could replace Microsoft if it gains the upper hand over other manufacturers.
It's not clear if Microsoft is scrapping enterprise versions of HoloLens 2, but we'll know more later this year when the Pentagon begins official solicitations for IVAS Next.
The Microsoft message published by Lauritsen is as follows:
Dear Valued Mixed Reality Business Partner,
As a follow-up to previous communication regarding the Mixed Reality Partner Program and HoloLens 2, we have additional information to share regarding HoloLens device availability and support.
HoloLens 2 Device Availability and Support update
-We are now announcing the 'Last Time Buying' campaign for HoloLens 2.
-HoloLens 2 will be sold by Microsoft and its authorized channels, subject to availability and on a first-come, first-served basis. For availability and ordering, please contact your authorized reseller or the Microsoft Store Business Desk.
-HoloLens 2 devices will continue to receive updates for critical security issues and software regressions affecting key functionality through December 31, 2027.
-HoloLens 2 device warranty remains unchanged specific to the device model purchased. Customer Service and Developer Support will remain unchanged.
HoloLens (1st Generation) Device Support
-HoloLens (1st Generation) entered Long Term Maintenance (LTS) on November 23, 2021, and its last service update will be on December 10, 2024.
-After December 10, 2024, HoloLens (1st Generation) devices will continue to work but will no longer receive security updates or technical support.
-There is no out-of-warranty support or stock for device replacement. Customers are encouraged to purchase HoloLens 2 in case a replacement device is needed.