Microsoft HoloLens

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Microsoft HoloLens logo 2015

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MicrosoftHoloLensBloomGesture

Microsoft HoloLens is a pair of mixed reality smartglasses developed and manufactured by Microsoft. HoloLens was one of the first computers running the Windows Mixed Reality platform under the Windows 10 operating system. The HoloLens is a head-mounted display unit connected to an adjustable, cushioned inner headband, which can tilt HoloLens up and down, as well as forward and backward.

Development

The development of HoloLens began in the early 2010s, with the project publicly announced in January 2015. The first version, HoloLens 1, was released in March 2016. Microsoft introduced the HoloLens 2 in February 2019, with improvements in ergonomics, field of view, and interaction capabilities. The device integrates sensors, a high-definition stereoscopic 3D optical head-mounted display, and spatial sound to allow for augmented reality applications, with a custom-built Microsoft Holographic Processing Unit (HPU) managing the sensory information.

Technology

HoloLens combines an array of sensors, advanced optics, and a custom holographic processing unit to understand the environment, spatially map it, and overlay holograms onto the real world. Users interact with these holograms through gaze, gesture, and voice commands. The device's understanding of the physical environment allows for a seamless blend of digital and physical worlds, enabling new forms of interaction, visualization, and collaboration.

Hardware

The HoloLens hardware features a high-definition 3D optical head-mounted display, and an array of sensors that include an inertial measurement unit (IMU), ambient light sensor, and four environment understanding cameras. It also includes a depth camera to enable hand tracking and interaction with holograms. The HoloLens 2 improved upon its predecessor by offering a more comfortable fit, a larger field of view, and better hand and eye tracking capabilities.

Software

Running on the Windows Mixed Reality platform, HoloLens supports a range of applications from productivity software to games. Developers can create applications using Microsoft's HoloLens Development Edition, which includes tools, documentation, and tutorials. The platform supports development in C# and uses Visual Studio and Unity for application development.

Applications

The applications of HoloLens are diverse, ranging from industrial design and manufacturing to healthcare, education, and entertainment. In industrial settings, HoloLens has been used for assembly, maintenance, and training, providing workers with real-time, hands-free access to digital information overlaid on physical objects. In healthcare, it has been utilized for surgical visualization and patient education. In education, HoloLens offers immersive learning experiences, enabling students to interact with 3D models and simulations.

Future Developments

Microsoft continues to invest in the development of HoloLens, focusing on improving hardware capabilities, expanding its ecosystem, and exploring new use cases. The company aims to further integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the device's ability to understand and interact with the physical world.