A little over 3 years ago Microsoft launched HoloLens, its ambitious incursion into the world of augmented reality glasses. HoloLens gained popularity for being one of the first computers running the Windows Mixed Reality platform under the Windows 10 operating system.
Read more Secrets of Hololens 2: What We’ve Learned So Far
However, the experts soon realized that while HoloLens had potentials, it was being stifled by its small field of view. But, this will reportedly change with the glasses’ second gen hardware, which is rumored to be released soon.
Although, Microsoft has remained tightlipped about its new Mixed Reality headset, thanks to various industry leakers, we already have some idea about HoloLens 2. The headset will have an enhanced field of view, and it will be lighter and more comfortable to wear, reports The Verge.
Thurrot has a more interesting information, indicating that the project for HoloLens 2 is codenamed ‘Sydney’, and that the final design will be powered by an ARM-based processor. That means it’ll offer a more powerful experience than the original HoloLens, while battery life should also get a big boost.
That performance will be helped by Qualcomm’s recently-announced XR1 chip, according to Engadget. Qualcomm has built the processor specifically for creating powerful VR and AR experiences, with its technology able to help deliver directional audio, 3D overlays and 4K video at 60 frames per second.
A modified version of Windows 10 is also expected to be running. However, what we don’t know, really, is how the actual device will look like.
Despite all the next generation features, the price of HoloLens has always been very high. The developer edition still is $3,000, while the version with full Commercial Suite is priced at $5,000. That’s a long way from the price tags seen on consumer-focused devices reportedly being planned by Microsoft’s competitors. But Microsoft’s target with HoloLens has pretty much always rested mainly within business.
According to various reports, Microsoft will slash the price significantly to make it viable for the businesses to adopt.
Read more Microsoft’s Alex Kipman Discusses Windows Mixed Reality and HoloLens Features
Now, as for the release date, it is a crucial part of the HoloLens 2 story, since there’s a number of rivals lurking behind.
Previously, multiple reports have suggested that Microsoft will share the details before the end of the year, with a full launch expected in the early part of 2019.
